In the world of investment, where fortunes are made and lost, the question of what constitutes the most important factor in deciding where to put one's money has been debated for centuries. While financial metrics and market trends are often considered paramount, history offers compelling examples of investors who prioritized character above all else. This article explores this fascinating aspect of investment, drawing parallels between the wisdom of J.P. Morgan and contemporary investment decisions.

J.P. Morgan's Emphasis on Character

J.P. Morgan, the legendary financier who dominated the global economy at the turn of the 20th century, famously declared that "character is more important than money." In 1912, during a congressional hearing on financial malpractices, Morgan was questioned about his lending criteria. While the committee sought to expose potential biases towards wealth and connections, Morgan doubled down on his belief that character was the primary factor. He argued that no amount of wealth could compensate for a lack of integrity and trustworthiness.

Modern Echoes of Morgan's Philosophy

Morgan's emphasis on character resonates with several modern-day investment success stories. One notable example is Masayoshi Son's early investment in Jack Ma's Alibaba. In 2000, Son met with Ma for mere minutes before deciding to invest $20 million in the fledgling e-commerce company. This bold move, based on Son's assessment of Ma's character and vision, proved to be one of the most successful venture capital investments in history.

Similarly, the Korean folktale of Heo Saeng and the wealthy merchant Byun氏 illustrates the importance of character in financial decisions. Byun氏, without ever having met Heo Saeng, lent him a large sum of money based solely on his perception of Heo Saeng's integrity and ambition. This story highlights the timeless wisdom of trusting one's instincts about a person's character.

The Case of Investor A and the Perils of Misplaced Trust

While character is undoubtedly crucial, it's essential to distinguish between mere likability and genuine integrity coupled with competence. A recent case involving an investor, referred to as A, underscores this point. A inherited a substantial sum of money and was approached by a relative, B, who sought investment in a new business venture. Despite concerns from A's wife, A decided to invest a significant portion of the inheritance based solely on his long-standing personal relationship with B.

Unfortunately, B's business venture failed, resulting in the loss of A's investment. While B was undoubtedly a likable and trustworthy individual, these qualities did not translate into business acumen or the ability to generate returns. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of relying solely on personal connections and goodwill when making investment decisions.

The Importance of Due Diligence and Competence

While character is essential, it should not be the sole determinant in investment decisions. Investors must conduct thorough due diligence, assessing not only the character of the individuals involved but also the viability of the business venture itself. Competence, experience, and a proven track record are equally critical factors to consider.

In conclusion, while J.P. Morgan's emphasis on character remains a valuable lesson for investors, it's crucial to remember that character encompasses more than just likability and trustworthiness. True character in the investment world also includes competence, resilience, and the ability to execute a business plan successfully. By combining an assessment of character with thorough due diligence, investors can increase their chances of success and avoid the pitfalls of misplaced trust.