UPDATE: Stock trader Erik Smolinski is making headlines with his winning strategies that consistently outperform the S&P 500. As of 2023, he achieved an astonishing triple-digit return, and this year, he’s on track for a remarkable 79% gain.
Smolinski, a Marine veteran and full-time trader, attributes his success to meticulous trading reviews and strategic adjustments. His unique end-of-year approach is capturing attention as investors seek to maximize their portfolios before the close of the financial year.
Latest reports indicate that Smolinski employs a rigorous system of monthly and annual after-action reviews (AARs) to assess performance and refine his trading techniques. “For a very, very long time, growth stocks outperformed large-cap stocks,” he stated. “But if I don’t check in and see if that still holds true, I risk underperforming.”
His organization is key; he maintains a detailed trading plan and log, monitoring his progress diligently. Smolinski encourages casual investors to adopt similar methods, advising that regular performance comparisons against major benchmarks like SPY, QQQ, IWM, TLT, and GLD can enhance investment decisions.
“Set a calendar event for yourself, ideally on a weekend,” he recommends, emphasizing the importance of dedicated time to evaluate portfolio performance. This proactive approach allows traders to identify underperforming assets and pivot when necessary.
Smolinski’s strategy has proven fruitful; between 2018 and 2022, he averaged a 24.6% return, only experiencing two negative years since he began trading in 2007. His exceptional results have been verified by Business Insider, which reviewed his summary statements.
As the market shifts, Smolinski continues to adapt, viewing his trading as a business akin to large corporations that conduct quarterly earnings reports. “What is that? That’s an AAR,” he explained, highlighting the critical nature of ongoing evaluations.
Investors should take cues from Smolinski’s methods as the year draws to a close. As he prepares for his annual review—an intensive process that can take up to two weeks—he stresses that not all successful strategies will hold over time.
With 2025 on the horizon, now is the time for investors to take charge of their portfolios. Smolinski’s insights could be the edge traders need to finish the year strong and set the stage for future success.
Stay tuned for updates as Smolinski continues to break down barriers in the trading world, proving that success is achievable with the right strategies and discipline.
