The First Goal Is Not Diversification. The First Goal Is Accumulating Assets (By Sustines E. Laplana)

One of the first lessons I learned as an investor did not come from a book, a seminar, or a financial expert.

It came from observing how easily investors become distracted.

One day, people are talking about dividend stocks. The next day, they are discussing REITs. Then suddenly everyone is excited about foreign stocks, cryptocurrencies, commodities, or the newest investment trend.

There is always something new competing for an investor's attention.

Yet amid all this noise, many investors overlook one simple truth:

The first goal is not diversification. The first goal is accumulating assets.

The Diversification Obsession

Ask a group of investors what they should do next, and many will immediately say:

• Diversify into foreign stocks.
• Add more sectors.
• Buy bonds.
• Invest in gold.
• Own real estate.
• Explore alternative investments.

These are not bad suggestions.

In fact, diversification is an important principle of investing.

The problem arises when investors become so focused on diversification that they forget to build meaningful investment positions in the first place.

After all, there is little benefit in spreading a small amount of money across dozens of investments if none of those investments can significantly contribute to long-term wealth.

The Reality of Small Investors

Most investors begin with limited resources.

They do not start with millions of pesos.

They start with a few thousand pesos saved from salaries, side businesses, allowances, or small enterprises.

At this stage, the challenge is not choosing among hundreds of investment opportunities.

The challenge is finding enough money to invest consistently.

This is why the early years of investing should focus on accumulation.

Every share purchased.

Every dividend reinvested.

Every contribution made.

These actions gradually build the foundation for future wealth.

A Farmer's Lesson

Imagine a farmer who owns only a handful of seeds.

Would it make sense for him to scatter those few seeds across dozens of fields?

Probably not.

Instead, he would likely plant them in fertile soil, nurture them, and allow them to multiply.

Once the harvest grows, he can expand to additional fields.

Investing works much the same way.

Before investors spread their resources too widely, they should focus on growing their asset base.

Diversification becomes more meaningful when there is already something substantial to diversify.

The Difference Between Accumulation and Diversification

Accumulation answers this question:

"How can I increase the amount of productive assets I own?"

Diversification answers this question:

"How can I reduce risk among the assets I already own?"

Notice the sequence.

You must have assets before you can effectively diversify them.

Without accumulation, diversification has very little to work with.

This is why investors should not confuse the two objectives.

Both are important, but one naturally comes before the other.

The Power of Consistent Ownership

Many investors underestimate the power of simply owning quality assets for a long period of time.

Banks continue lending money.

Businesses continue serving customers.

REITs continue collecting rent.

Companies continue paying dividends.

Over time, these assets can compound in value.

The investor who consistently accumulates shares in productive businesses often benefits more than the investor who constantly shifts attention from one opportunity to another.

Success frequently comes not from finding the perfect investment but from continuously increasing ownership of good investments.

Why Investors Feel Left Behind

Modern investing has created an environment where it is easy to compare ourselves with others.

Someone owns US stocks.

Someone owns gold.

Someone owns technology companies.

Someone owns real estate.

Someone owns cryptocurrency.

Suddenly, our own portfolio feels incomplete.

But investing should never become a contest.

The objective is not to own everything.

The objective is to steadily improve our financial position.

A portfolio that grows year after year is far more valuable than a portfolio designed merely to impress others.

Diversification Will Come Naturally

As investors continue accumulating assets, diversification often happens naturally.

A larger portfolio creates more opportunities.

Additional savings create more flexibility.

Dividend income provides new capital for different investments.

Over time, investors may eventually own:

• Philippine stocks
• REITs
• Mutual funds
• Foreign stocks
• Bonds
• Real estate

But these opportunities usually become available because assets were accumulated first.

Final Thoughts

Diversification is important.

Most experienced investors agree with that statement.

However, diversification should not distract investors from the more urgent task of building wealth.

For small investors, the greatest risk is often not concentration.

The greatest risk is failing to invest enough, save enough, and accumulate enough productive assets over time.

Before worrying about owning many different investments, focus on owning more of the right investments.

Because at the beginning of the journey, the first goal is not diversification.

The first goal is accumulating assets.

Do Small Filipino Investors Really Need US Stocks? (By Sustines E. Laplana)

One of the most common pieces of investing advice shared online today is this:

"You should invest in US stocks."

At first glance, the advice makes sense. The United States is home to some of the world's largest companies. Investors gain exposure to global businesses, innovative technologies, and a market much larger than our own.

But as a small Filipino investor, I often find myself asking a different question:

Do I really need US stocks right now?

The answer may surprise many investors.

The Appeal of US Stocks

There are legitimate reasons why investors want exposure to the US market.

Companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Nvidia have created enormous wealth for investors over the years. The US market also offers thousands of investment choices across different industries.

Another advantage is currency diversification.

If the Philippine peso weakens against the US dollar, investments denominated in dollars become more valuable when converted back into pesos.

This is why many Filipino investors dream of eventually building an international portfolio.

The Reality for Small Investors

While the benefits are attractive, the reality is often different.

Many small investors face practical challenges:

• Limited investment capital
• Foreign exchange conversion costs
• Funding requirements
• Additional account setup procedures
• International transfer fees

For someone who is still building an investment portfolio, these obstacles can make foreign investing difficult.

As a result, many investors feel discouraged because they cannot immediately participate in international markets.

But perhaps they are asking the wrong question.

A More Important Question

Instead of asking,

"Why don't I own US stocks?"

perhaps we should ask,

"Am I consistently accumulating assets?"

After all, a person with a ₱2 million portfolio of quality Philippine investments may be financially stronger than someone with only ₱50,000 spread across various international markets.

The key is not where your investments are located.

The key is whether your assets are growing over time.

Building the Foundation First

When constructing a house, nobody starts with the roof.

The same principle applies to investing.

Before worrying about international diversification, investors should focus on building a solid financial foundation.

This often includes:

• Creating an emergency fund
• Eliminating high-interest debt
• Developing a regular investing habit
• Building positions in quality companies
• Reinvesting dividends

These fundamentals contribute more to long-term wealth than simply owning foreign assets.

Philippine Stocks Are Not Inferior

A common misconception is that investing locally is somehow inferior to investing abroad.

While the US market has many advantages, the Philippine market also contains quality businesses.

Banks continue to serve a growing economy.

REITs generate rental income.

Consumer companies sell products used every day.

Utilities provide essential services.

Investors who carefully select strong businesses can still build meaningful wealth without leaving the Philippine market.

The objective is not to choose between Philippine and US stocks.

The objective is to own productive assets that can grow and generate income over time.

Diversification Can Come Later

This article is not a criticism of US investing.

In fact, I believe international diversification is beneficial.

However, diversification becomes much easier after an investor has already developed saving and investing discipline.

A small investor who regularly saves and invests can gradually build a separate fund for future international investments.

There is no need to rush.

There is no need to feel left behind.

And there is certainly no need to sell quality holdings simply because others are chasing foreign markets.

The Danger of Investment Envy

Social media has created a new problem for investors: comparison.

We see screenshots of foreign portfolios.

We read about record-breaking stock gains.

We hear stories about people investing in companies we cannot yet afford.

Over time, this creates investment envy.

Instead of appreciating the progress we've made, we focus on what we don't have.

But successful investing has never been a race.

The investor who steadily accumulates assets year after year will often outperform the investor who constantly jumps from one trend to another.

Final Thoughts

Do small Filipino investors need US stocks?

Eventually, perhaps yes.

Today, not necessarily.

The first priority should be building the habit of saving, investing, and accumulating productive assets. Whether those assets are located in Manila or New York becomes a secondary concern when compared with the discipline required to build wealth.

International diversification is a worthy goal.

But before we diversify globally, we must first learn to invest consistently.

After all, wealth is not created by owning investments from many countries.

It is created by patiently owning good investments for a very long time.

For most small investors, the challenge is not gaining access to the US market. The challenge is continuing to invest, month after month, year after year, regardless of where the market happens to be.

Why a Weak Peso Should Not Worry Long-Term Filipino Investors (By Sustines E. Laplana)

 

News about the Philippine peso weakening against the US dollar often causes concern among investors. Many people immediately assume that a weak peso is bad for their investments and that they should move their money into dollar-denominated assets. While there is some truth to the benefits of owning dollar investments, the reality is not that simple.

For long-term investors, a weak peso is not necessarily a reason to panic. In many cases, it is merely another economic condition that businesses and investors learn to navigate.

Understanding a Weak Peso

When the peso weakens, it takes more pesos to buy one US dollar. For example, if the exchange rate moves from ₱55 to ₱60 per dollar, the peso has lost value relative to the dollar.

This affects various sectors differently.

Companies that rely heavily on imported goods, raw materials, and fuel may experience higher costs. On the other hand, businesses that earn revenues in dollars may benefit because those earnings become more valuable when converted back into pesos.

What About My Stock Portfolio?

As I reviewed my own investments, I realized that a weak peso does not affect every stock equally.

My holdings include:

• MBT (Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company)
• BDO Unibank
• BPI
• CBC
• MREIT
• DMC
• LTG
• ALFM Fund
• RCR
• RFM
• DDMPR
• JFC

After examining these investments, I discovered that many of them are actually well-positioned to withstand a weaker peso.

Banks Remain Strong

Banks such as MBT, BDO, BPI, and CBC form a significant portion of my portfolio.

Large banks are generally resilient institutions. While a weak peso may create economic pressures, banks often benefit from healthy lending activity and strong financial systems. For investors with substantial exposure to quality banks, peso weakness alone is not usually a major threat.

Dividend Stocks Can Still Perform

Companies like DMC and LTG continue generating earnings from their core businesses regardless of short-term currency fluctuations.

DMC may even benefit from certain globally priced commodities, while LTG's tobacco business has traditionally been viewed as defensive during economic uncertainties.

REITs Focus on Rental Income

My REIT holdings, including MREIT, RCR, and DDMPR, generate income primarily through rental collections.

Their performance is influenced more by occupancy rates, tenant quality, and interest rates than by daily movements in the peso-dollar exchange rate.

Consumer Companies Face Mixed Effects

Jollibee Foods Corporation and RFM may encounter higher costs when imported ingredients become more expensive. However, strong brands and efficient operations often help these companies adapt over time.

JFC's growing international presence may also provide some support because part of its business generates revenues outside the Philippines.

The Temptation of Dollar Investments

A weak peso naturally makes investors think about US stocks and other dollar-denominated assets.

There are clear advantages to international diversification:

• Exposure to global companies
• Potential protection from peso depreciation
• Access to industries not available in the Philippine market

However, many small investors face a practical challenge: minimum funding requirements.

The desire to invest abroad is understandable, but not everyone can immediately afford to open and maintain an international investment account.

An Important Lesson

One realization stood out during my reflection:

The first goal is not international diversification. The first goal is accumulating assets.

An investor with a substantial portfolio of quality Philippine stocks may be in a stronger financial position than someone who owns only a small amount of foreign investments.

Before worrying about global diversification, investors should first focus on consistently building their capital.

What Small Investors Can Do

If international investing is currently out of reach, there is no need to feel discouraged.

Instead:

1. Continue investing regularly.
2. Reinvest dividends whenever possible.
3. Build positions in quality businesses.
4. Save gradually for future international investments.
5. Avoid selling good stocks simply to chase currency trends.

Over time, a growing portfolio can create opportunities that seem unreachable today.

Final Thoughts

A weak peso should not automatically trigger fear or drastic investment decisions.

For long-term investors, the quality of the businesses they own remains more important than short-term currency movements. While dollar investments can provide valuable diversification, they are not a requirement for building wealth.

Patience, discipline, and consistent investing remain the most reliable tools available to ordinary investors.

After all, wealth is rarely built by reacting to every change in the exchange rate. It is usually built by steadily accumulating productive assets and allowing time and compounding to do their work.

The weak peso may dominate today's headlines, but a disciplined investment strategy will matter far more over the next twenty years.

Finding Strength in Knowledge

Living with lupus is not just a medical challenge — it’s a test of endurance, faith, and understanding. Every flare‑up reminds us how fragile the body can be, yet how powerful the human spirit truly is.

The Power of Awareness

Knowledge is the first step toward empowerment. When we learn about lupus — its symptoms, triggers, and treatments — we take control of what once felt uncontrollable. Awareness transforms fear into action and isolation into connection.

Building Resilience

- Healthy habits: Gentle exercise, balanced nutrition, and rest help the body recover.  

- Emotional support: Sharing experiences with others who understand makes the journey lighter.  

- Continuous learning: Staying informed about new research and coping strategies keeps hope alive.

Beyond Lupus

Healing is not only physical — it’s also about growing wiser. That’s why I created Everything Explained, a blog that breaks down complex topics into clear, practical guides. From wellness routines to productivity hacks, it’s a space for anyone seeking clarity and strength through knowledge.

Closing Thought:  

Survival begins with awareness, but true strength comes from understanding. Whether you’re fighting lupus or facing life’s other battles, remember — knowledge is your most powerful ally.

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Where to Watch Floyd Mayweather Jr versus Victor Ortiz Boxing Bout?

Question
Where to Watch Floyd Mayweather Jr versus Victor Ortiz Boxing Bout here in the Philippines?

Answer
You can watch the fight of Floyd Mayweather Jr against Victor Ortiz on Sunday, September 18, 2011 at 10AM at TV5. Now since TV5 is the official TV station here in the Philippines, so I think it will also be replayed at the IBC13.

Joining Iglesia Ni Cristo Bloggers' Campaign

I have been informed by a friend who happens to be a brother in the Iglesia Ni Cristo that some other bloggers who know better about the Iglesia Ni Cristo are writing blogposts about the church in order to answer accusations made by those who don't know much about the church and those who are narrow minded people who accuse the whole church of the mistakes made by just few of its members.

The campaign is just simple. A blogger will just write a blogpost about the Iglesia Ni Cristo based on the truth. Here's an example to this: My Thoughts About the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

It's up to you on what should you do in your article as long as your article is fair and is based on truth.

The said that there is one blogger who is active in defending the church and he is using the name Read Me INC. Well, I think he is so good in defending the church using any arguments or verses in the Bible. But for those who are not good in this field, I understand that everyone of us has our own interest, talent and mastery, just rant the truth you learn about the church and its doctrine.

Back Online

I am currently back online. And then when I checked my blogs, I found out that the traffic has again dropped. It really made me nervous. I just couldn't imagine what will happen to my blog if the traffic continue to drop just like what happen to the Pinoy Bloggers Directory website.

At first, the website has 1000 unique visitors everyday. But then as the time passed by, the traffic dropped by 100. Now, the website has 100 unique visitors only everyday.

Having a hundred visitors everyday is really a problem. Especially if you'll consider its previous daily traffic.

But it is of course expected to happen if you did nothing to maintain the traffic.

So what should we do:

1. Get more backlinks. Search engines updates their algorithm almost every month. But the main ingredients of it never changed. And it is the backlinks. So, don't ever seized getting backlinks for your blog.

2. Post more articles. It is always said that content is the king in the make money online world. SEO is nothing if you don't have the content. So, always post new content.

Traffic Down

My blogs were affected by the latest update of Google on its search engine and its search results. I lost a lot of traffic and it really hurt me.

Currently I am working for the better of my blogs.

I checked the Make Money Online Blogging blog and its affected too. It seems that Google is really doing good for its search engine. But many blogs were hurt.

I don't know of the other blogs owned by other bloggers. But one of the bloggers from Maasin City told me that her blog lost 80 percent of its traffic.

This only tells us that the techniques used by us previously is not already working now. If they are still working then there is a big changes to its effect to the websites.

However, I noticed that the techniques used by spammers are still working because my friends who are doing spams are telling me that their traffic is still high and they are really earning a lot of money from it.

So, I need to do some other ways in gaining back the trust of Google.

Struggling to Get More Visitors

I am currently struggling to get more visitors for my blogs especially the Make Money Online Blogging blog. I am still not sure if the result of the drop of the traffic which I revealed in my previous post, Blogging Problem, the result of the update of Google Search Engine implemented on November, but I guess it is the reason.

So, now I am currently looking and doing ways that might help my blogs gain traffic again.

By the way, it might be a reason too of the huge drop of traffic of my blogs the deletion of my other 60 blogs. These 60 blogs were deleted by Google after three of them were considered by Google as spam. Actually, my entire Google account was suspended which resulted to the deletion of those blogs too.

So, now I am trying to be careful in posting blogposts to my blogs, new blogs hosted by blogspot.com
 I don't want to suffer the consequences resulted by carelessly posting to the blogs which can be considered by many especially by Google as spam.

Remember that I am trying to depend to Google in terms of Traffic. And the only way to gain the trust of Google is to follow its recommendations, policies and terms.