A private placement program allows the astute investor to buy into a company before it goes public. By selecting the right company, the investment returns have the potential to be many times over the original investment. They key to high returns is getting in before other investors discover the company with the promising outlook. A well managed private placement program showcases such companies to the potential investor.

A good private placement program will have a selection of companies with good potential. These companies tend to have a unique product, a competitive cost structure, experienced management and satisfied customers. To grow the business, private funding is required. If the company executes on its objectives, the value of its shares will appreciate.

Online trading is quick and easy, online investing takes time

With a click of mouse, you can buy and sell stocks from more than 100 online brokers offering executions as low as $5 per transaction. Although online trading saves investors time and money, it does not take the homework out of making investment decisions.

Set your price limits on fast-moving stocks: market orders vs. limit orders

To avoid buying or selling a stock at a price higher or lower than you wanted, you need to place a limit order rather than a market order. A limit order is an order to buy or sell a security at a specific price.

Online trading is not always instantaneous

Investors may find that technological "choke points" can slow or prevent their orders from reaching an online firm.

Know your options for placing a trade if you are unable to access your account online

Most online trading firms offer alternatives for placing trades. These alternatives may include touch-tone telephone trades, faxing your order, or doing it the low-tech way--talking to a broker over the phone.

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