Investing is basically a wealth creation scheme which requires the long haul. Shocks and shares, go up in some years and down in fewer years. It may be considered a sale of your assets to make a profit - an everyday transaction. However, it does mean that the buyer is willing to part with more of his money for your lower cost of the goods. Therefore, to each his own liking. Short-term investment, however, may be considered risker, and then gambling.