Investment Trend or Fad? Here’s How to Tell

Allworth financial advisor Darren Dindinger, MBA, CFP®, CRPC®, explores how to distinguish between genuine investment trends and passing fads by focusing on staying power, fundamentals, market track records, and personal goals.

 

If you’ve been following investment news lately, you know the market is full of new ideas. But with so many options, how do you know which ones are worth your time—and your money? The truth is, the line between a genuine trend and a passing fad isn’t always obvious. Let’s break down a few ways to tell if an investment opportunity is built to last or if it might just be the latest flash in the pan.

1. Look for Staying Power

The best way to separate trends from fads is to look at staying power. Trends typically have solid foundations in market needs or shifts, while fads tend to come on fast, driven more by hype than substance. For example, think of renewable energy: it’s an industry that’s been steadily growing for years due to global demand and environmental priorities. Compare that with a “hot stock” that gets a lot of media coverage one day and fades quickly when the next big thing arrives.

Ask yourself: Is this investment addressing a long-term need, or does it feel more like a short-lived craze? If it’s the latter, proceed with caution.

2. Evaluate the Fundamentals

A great way to weed out the fads is to dive into the fundamentals. Any investment that’s worth its salt will have strong underlying financials. Check the company’s revenue, profit margins, and debt levels. If it’s a new or emerging area, look at the business model and market demand. A solid foundation typically points toward a more sustainable trend, while investments lacking in fundamentals may be a sign of a passing fad.

Fads may look good on paper—or even better on social media—but without substance, they’re likely to fade once the excitement wears off. Always ask: Are the fundamentals there to support future growth?

3. Consider the Market's Track Record

Another way to gauge an investment’s potential staying power is by looking at the market’s track record. Emerging technologies, for instance, are exciting, but if we take a step back, we can see that some sectors, like AI and renewable energy, have shown steady growth for years. However, when something brand new and unproven enters the scene, such as cryptocurrency did, it’s a good idea to tread carefully until there’s a proven track record.

It’s okay to be cautious. The last thing you want is to invest heavily in something only to see it vanish. Does the market for this investment have a proven history of growth, or is it a brand-new concept? This is a key question to consider.

4. Pay Attention to the Hype

When something sounds too good to be true, it often is. A lot of fads are driven by hype, whether it’s on social media, in news headlines, or even through celebrity endorsements. Remember that hype is rarely a reliable investment strategy. Take a step back and look at what’s being said about the investment. If the focus is on how fast you’ll “make it big,” it’s probably wise to dig deeper.

Ask yourself: Is the excitement around this investment coming from solid market insights or is it driven by high-energy promotion? An investment with true potential will have a mix of positive indicators and realistic expectations.

5. Trust Your Long-Term Goals

Finally, it’s crucial to align any investment with your personal financial goals. If you’re looking for long-term growth, you want investments that will steadily add value over time. Sometimes it’s tempting to jump on a popular investment, but if it doesn’t align with your goals or risk tolerance, it may not be worth it.

Take a minute to consider: Does this opportunity fit with my long-term financial goals, or am I just drawn in by the hype? Your goals are your compass, and they’ll guide you through all the trends and fads that come and go.

Final Thoughts

The investment world is always evolving, and keeping up with trends can be exciting. But it’s important to remember that not everything that glitters is gold. By focusing on staying power, fundamentals, track records, and aligning with your personal goals, you can feel more confident in telling a worthwhile trend from a passing fad.

If you’d like to talk about any potential investments you’re considering, or if you want a second opinion, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate the market with confidence and focus on what really matters.

Darren Dindinger, MBA, CFP®, CRPC®

Financial Advisor

I remember seeing my father nearly lose everything during the dot-com bubble. Although he was working with an advisor, he felt ignored and alone during this life changing event.

That’s why I’m passionate about educating my clients every step of the way. I don’t view financial planning as just a job. My goal is to help you to appreciate the wealth you’ve created and use it towards your passions as you transition into your retirement years.

LEARN HOW I CAN HELP >>