Needle In A Haystack: Stock Message Boards

Now that we've survived the dotcom boom, we all own our own domain names, and we've become accustomed to file sharing, we can get back to the roots of the internet: communication. Though the communication methods on the internet can be wide in range – from newsletters to podcasts to blogs – it's the accuracy and credibility of the content producer that determines the legitimacy of the content itself. One of the oldest forms of internet communication, the message board, continues to thrive.

Topics up for discussion on message boards are diverse and all-encompassing, from knitting to politics and, to bring us to the theme of this article, investing. The information available on investing message boards can certainly be beneficial to investors of all skill levels, but we have to remember to consider the sources. Just because something is published is no reason to assume it's worth reading.

Many message boards focus on a specific topic or group of topics, and allow readers to interact with people who share similar interests or have specialized knowledge in a particular field. The main function is to provide a forum where readers and users can share their thoughts. (Find out how to spot internet fraud and protect your hard-earned money in Avoiding Online Investment Scams.)

Finance message boards are often flush with hot stock ideas and valuable tips and information. However, when considering the source – and understanding that many message boards are hosted by, maintained by and receive content from private citizens – ulterior motives can often come into play. Much like insider trading, erroneous message board information can have an effect on stock prices, and weeding through the misleading "tips" can be daunting. (Learn more by reading How does a pump and dump scam work?)

There are some common factors to watch out for when analyzing message board information and its source. Look for individuals who are blind to opposing views. Such "posters" can seem to have insight into stock patterns, but may be up to little more than attempting to skew opinions for personal gain. Also, message board posters with an ulterior motive may make calculated appearances at a critical juncture. By glossing over facts and citing other questionable sources, attention can be diverted from the real issues at hand. (Some misleading facts may include ratios such as P/E, ROI and dividend yield. Learn how to check these in Analyze Investments Quickly With Ratios.)

Obviously, it can be difficult to confirm credentials and legitimacy on the internet. But it can be done. Credible posters often make their identities known, and provide links to their personal websites, business websites or personal résumés. Also, legitimate posters will often focus on facts or provide unbiased sources to back up their comments or information. (Turn frustrating hours into profit-turning minutes by managing your investing time properly. See Five Quick Research Tips For Busy Investors.)

It's also vital to understand that there are frequently naysayers on message boards – individuals who will take an opposing position to other posters, and may become quite hostile in trying to sway others' opinions.

For example, message boards that revolve around stock trading ideas sometimes include individuals who will put down a company, regardless of how well it performs. Conversely, some individuals tout the qualities of a certain company, regardless of how dubious that company's outlook might appear.

Also, while message boards can be a terrific resource and a great educational tool, they should not be the only tool that's utilized. If an individual were to pick up stock ideas or tax advice, it probably makes sense to talk those ideas over with a professional before acting on them. (For more on doing your own research, see Stock-Picking Strategies: Fundamental Analysis.)

The internet is filled with message boards that cater to general discussions, and those that cater to topic-specific subjects. Both have the potential to enlighten or entertain readers and posters. However, participants on such sites should understand that erroneous information may be hidden in even the most credible of sources. Carefully weeding out the legitimate opinions and analysis of investing and trading sites can be a task in itself, but that's the job at hand when trying to untangle the world wide web.