Do you ever look at your investing app and think “there must be an easier way to do this”? I do. Well, I did. Then I started cheating.

NOT ACTUALLY CHEATING. I just started using some investing cheat codes used by more advanced investors.

And I’m here to share them with you today.

We’re talking about niche markets, insider moves, cash (yes, CASH), and some timing tricks.

Prepare to be amazed.

1. Niche Markets: The cool kids of investing

Do you ever find a local bar or a restaurant that’s cool at first, but then just gets overrun by tourists and the margarita suddenly costs $25? That’s like investing in big US companies - sure it’s been pretty reliable, but now they’re kind of expensive.

Small companies, emerging market companies, private equity, music royalties, or farmland in Nebraska - these are all examples of more niche markets, or alternative investments, where you can find less-discovered opportunities.

On top of that, these under-followed niche markets often zig when stocks zag, meaning they can help balance your portfolio. Plus, you get to tell people at parties, “Oh, I own a bit of farmland in Nebraska.” Would that be a good pick-up line? Asking for a friend.

2. Buy at the End of the Day: Because timing does matter

You’ve heard people say, “Timing the market doesn’t work.” Well, here’s a hack: the time of day might matter.

Stocks often dip near the end of the trading day as traders wrap things up and sell off positions. If you’re planning to buy, doing it in that last hour can sometimes get you a better price.

Why it’s cool: It’s an easy tweak, and over time, small savings add up. Plus, it feels like you’re getting a deal. Who doesn’t love that?

3. Insider Buying: Follow the money

Insider buying is like getting a sneak peek into what a company’s leaders really think. If a CEO or board member is putting their own money into the company’s stock, it’s usually because they believe things are looking up.

• How to check: Use tools like Finviz or Yahoo Finance to track insider buying.

Here’s a recent report on $META:

Why it’s cool: You’re basically riding the coattails of the people who know the company best. Just don’t get too excited—insiders can be wrong too.

4. Cash Is King (and a pretty good sidekick)

Cash isn’t just for emergencies or holding up to your head and pretending to talk on the phone (see below). It’s also an under-appreciated part of a smart portfolio.

Why? Having some money on the sidelines gives you options. Markets dip? Buy the dip. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes along? You’re ready.

• Pro tip: Aim for 5-10% of your portfolio in cash or cash-like assets (like money market funds). If your investments go up and your cash allocation dips, sell some investments and top it up! If your investments dip and your cash allocation goes down, it could be a good time to buy more!

Why it’s cool: Cash is freedom. It’s like keeping a cheat code in your back pocket for when things get wild.

5. Rotate Sectors Like a Pro

Here’s a secret: not all parts of the market shine at the same time. Different sectors (tech, healthcare, energy, etc.) do better depending on where the economy is.

• Example: When the economy slows down, healthcare and utilities often do well. When things are booming, tech and consumer goods take off.

• Pro tip! Just when an investment feels like it could keep going up forever is usually when it stops working. Always keep your emotions in check.

Why it’s cool: It’s like having a weather forecast for your investments. Knowing which sectors thrive in different conditions can help you make smarter moves.

TL;DR

Here’s your cheat sheet for today’s tips:

• Niche markets = invest in cool, less traditional stuff like small companies or farmland.

• Buy at the end of the day = snag better prices when the market dips.

• Follow insider buying = watch where company leaders put their money.

• Cash is an asset = keep some cash on hand for when opportunities strike.

• Rotate sectors = match your investments to the economy’s vibes.

Can you smell cash?