1. I've eliminated the "core" and "non-core" designations. This is tough to track and doesn't make a ton of sense anymore. I have a taxable account where I invest in lower yielding stocks, and that serves as the non-core. Today, I only invest in 2.5% yield or higher stocks for this account (usually)
2. The 10% cash goal is still valid, and I'm a little light today. I need to trim some of my larger/overpriced names.
3. I still only add stocks at nice undervaluation, so that's been good. I'm a bit slow to sell stocks if they are 15% overvalued. I'll need to change that to higher overvaluation number, perhaps 30% or so. I also rarely use stop losses. I find they don't work too well, and usually get triggered, then the stock recovers quickly.
4. There are other factors I like to look at these days, among them are:
- Debt level (50% or less preferred)
- Credit rating (at least BBB+)
- Morningstar rating (4* or better is what I usually require)
- ROIC, lately looking for higher than 10% here...though a soft target
- Revenue. In addition to eps growth, I also like to see a growing revenue line
- Insider action (I like to see insiders buying the shares, and especially hate to see them selling)
- I also read the 10Q for the latest 2 quarters carefully, this is usually instructive, and gives me a feel for the CEO and whether or not she is a "bullshitter"
