I always talk to you about the power of compound growth–well, this month we get back to the basics. My wife and I recently visited Vermont’s Authentic Designs to order new lighting for our home. The skilled craftsmen of Authentic Designs still work on 150 year-old machines and turn out some masterful creations. Their guiding principle is “Simple Is Sophisticated.” I love that phrase, and I think it’s one that every investor should take to heart. In this month’s issue I cover all the “keep it simple” principles and steps that help our portfolios grow. This is an educational issue you won’t want to miss. Enjoy, and make it a good month!

Tags: ALEX, Alexander & Baldwin, Berkshire Hathaway, Brazil, BRKb, Efficiency Frontier, Fidelity Canada fund, Fidelity International real Estate, GE, general electric, harley-davidson, HDI, illinois tool works, Imer, Inco, iShares Australia, iShares Singapore, ITW, Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd., JMHLY, JOE, LMI.L, Lonmin PLC, N, St. Joe, Third Avenue International Value, time warner, TWX, Vanguard GNMA, Vanguard Precious Metals & Mining, Vanguard Short Term Investment Grade, Vanguard tax-Managed growth & Income, Vanguard Wellington