Where the Experts Say to Invest Money

By PAUL RICHTER
TIMES STAFF WRITER

The Dow Jones industrial index has tumbled nearly 20% this year, oil prices have doubled and the economy seems to be spluttering to a halt. Is it a wonder that so many individual investors are confused?

But there is some consolation: Many experts are nearly as befuddled. When eight investment professionals recently were asked to name their favorite investment for the average consumer today, several acknowledged their confusion. And most were cautious in their prescriptions. As to be expected, most offered their advice with two routine caveats: No investment is right for everybody, and investors shouldn't sink too much of their money into any one vehicle.

Morrie W. Reiff, financial planner and president, Planned Asset Management, Encino

Reiff recommends a "multi-market bond trust" as a way that investors can secure a measure of safety while taking advantage of the higher interest rates prevailing overseas. Such funds buy U.S. and foreign bonds but limit maturities to three years or less to minimize price volatility.