Hildegard Alf-Kopp: The 98-Year-Old Stock Market Whiz
Hildegard Alf-Kopp, a 98-year-old Stuttgart resident, is a seasoned investor with over 50 years of experience in the stock market. With her laptop ready for online banking and the business section of the newspaper always at hand, she keeps a watchful eye on the stock prices. Her knowledge of the market is so vast that she confidently imparts it to her grandchildren.
Hildegard’s passion for investing was ignited in 1968 when her father shared his wisdom about stocks with her. "I thought to myself, ‘No problem, I can do that,’" she recalls. Since then, she has invested diligently, directing a significant portion of her funds into her beloved cinema, which she once operated. However, her financial support extends beyond her own ventures; she is also a generous benefactor to her grandchildren, providing financial assistance for their education.
"It gives me immense joy to be able to support my grandchildren in their studies," she says.
To stay informed about market trends, Hildegard is an avid reader of newspapers. "Keeping up with politics and economics is essential for maintaining a fulfilling life," she believes. This unwavering interest in current events has contributed to her success in the stock market. She estimates that she has accumulated over a million euros in profits throughout the decades.
However, Hildegard is quick to acknowledge that there is no such thing as absolute certainty in the stock market. "You can never be completely sure," she says.
Instead, she relies on her intuition to guide her investment decisions, often choosing to hold back when she senses the market is too volatile. "Greed can be a dangerous trap," she warns.
To avoid becoming overly attached to the market, Hildegard sets aside specific periods to make decisions. "I consciously wait a few days before buying or selling to prevent addiction," she explains.
Ultimately, her goal is to end each year with a positive balance, a testament to her sound investment strategy.
Hildegard’s grandson, Pascal, 23, is one of the beneficiaries of her financial wisdom. He has already begun investing on his own, guided by his grandmother’s advice.
"My grandmother is an exceptional role model," he says. "Her ability to navigate the complexities of the stock market is truly inspiring."
Hildegard’s unwavering passion for investing and her ability to transmit her knowledge to younger generations make her a true financial icon. Her story serves as a reminder that with a keen interest in the market, a willingness to learn, and a healthy dose of caution, anyone can achieve success in the stock market, regardless of their age.
