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Why most DIY investors underperform — and what to do instead

Tadpole Marketing Team

8 June 2025

When it comes to investing, the appeal of managing your own portfolio can be very strong. The idea of being in full control, picking winners, and outsmarting the market is very enticing. Yet, research consistently demonstrates that the vast majority of DIY investors fail to match, let alone beat, the market.

Why is this, and what can investors do differently?


One of the biggest downfalls for new investors is emotional decision-making. Investors often become their own worst enemies, driven by fear and greed. When markets dip, panic-selling locks in losses. When markets surge, greed pushes investors to buy at highs. Timing the market successfully requires not just knowledge, but incredible discipline—something many investors struggle with, especially when personal savings are on the line.


Another common mistake is overtrading. DIY investors frequently trade too often, incurring transaction fees, tax liabilities, and performance drag. Studies, such as the analysis by DALBAR, reveal that the average investor significantly underperforms market benchmarks largely due to excessive trading.

Additionally, DIY investors tend to lack diversification. Many choose stocks or industries they feel personally passionate about, completely ignoring diversification. This can lead to overly concentrated portfolios vulnerable to market shocks and unsystematic risk. The recent volatility in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and cryptocurrency clearly illustrates how quickly concentrated positions can turn from significant gains to sizable losses.


So, what's the solution? Managed investment funds like Tadpoles Capital offer a smarter alternative. Professional funds implement disciplined investment strategies that take emotion out of the equation, reducing costly mistakes. By diversifying effectively across industries and asset classes, managed funds reduce risk and improve long-term returns.


Moreover, funds like Tadpoles Capital utilise systematic rebalancing, keeping portfolios aligned with strategic goals rather than market noise. This disciplined approach has repeatedly shown superior long-term performance compared to emotionally driven investing.


If you're serious about growing your wealth sustainably, consider leaving DIY investing behind. Choosing a professionally managed fund isn't just outsourcing responsibility; instead, it's adopting a smarter, more disciplined approach to securing your financial future.


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