Best Investing Books in 2023

As financial market enthusiasts with a taste for the wild side of the stock market, we’re here to take you on a trip through the literary landscape of investing. These books are like a guide to the glittering gold mines of Wall Street and the treacherous terrain of financial forecasting. So grab a drink, light a smoke, and settle in for the ride, because this is a guide to the best investing books and a primer on how to turn a profit in the high-stakes game of finance.

But hold on, my friends. Before we dive into the uncharted waters of off-the-beaten-path investment literature, let’s address the elephant in the room: the countless other guides out there that all recommend the same old tomes. As Mark Twain said: 

“Classic – a book which people praise and don’t read.”

Yes, the usual suspects are undoubtedly classics for a reason, but in this guide, we’re taking a step beyond the horizon, exploring books that may have been overlooked or underappreciated in the past. So, buckle up and get ready to discover some hidden gems of financial wisdom.

In this article, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best investing books. To help you navigate through the vast amount of information, we’ve divided the books into five different categories: 

• Classics Investment Books
• The Odd Ones Out
• Investing Books Recommended by Investors 
• Investing Books Recommended by Bitcoiners
• Best Picks from the Morpher Office

For each category, we’ve selected our top pick and provided a comprehensive summary of the book. Additionally, we’ve included four more books in each category with a brief overview to give you a wider range of options to choose from. Keep in mind, reading all of these books will take time, so feel free to browse this guide at your own pace and delve into the categories that interest you the most. 

Classics Investment Books

Ah, the classics, the tried and true. The books have stood the test of time and served as the foundation for generations of investors. If you’re looking to get a solid understanding of the basics of investing, look no further. These are the books that the financial elite have read and continue to recommend.

“The Intelligent Investor” & “Security Analysis” by Benjamin Graham

“The Intelligent Investor” and “Security Analysis” by Benjamin Graham are two books that will have you seeing the stock market through new eyes, like a financial journalist with a whiskey buzz and a penchant for deep dives into corporate balance sheets. Graham’s writing style is as sharp as his stock picks, delivering wit, wisdom, and a wealth of knowledge on value investing that’s as timeless as the ticker symbols of the companies he’s analyzed.

These books are a must-read for anyone who wants to make their money work for them in a world where Wall Street is filled with wolves disguised as stockbrokers. With Graham as your guide, you’ll learn how to see through the smoke and mirrors and focus on fundamental over technical analyis, to truly determine a company’s worth. And remember, as Graham says, “In the short run, the market is a voting machine, but in the long run, it’s a weighing machine.” So, weigh your investments wisely, and let the profits roll in!

“The Little Book of Common Sense Investing” by John C. Bogle

Next up, we got “The Little Book of Common Sense Investing” by John C. Bogle, where the man behind Vanguard Group tells you to keep it simple, forget about trying to beat the market, and just buy and hold a low-cost index fund. Bogle says it best, “Don’t look for the needle in the haystack. Just buy the haystack!”

“One Up On Wall Street” by Peter Lynch

Next, we have “One Up On Wall Street” by Peter Lynch, where the former Fidelity Magellan fund manager takes us on a wild ride through his investment strategies, showing us how to spot companies with growth potential and how to spot a good stock from a mile away. Lynch famously quips, “I’m not a macro economist, I just follow the fundamentals of the companies I invest in.”

​​”A Random Walk Down Wall Street” by Burton Malkiel

Fourth, on the list, is “A Random Walk Down Wall Street” by Burton Malkiel. This book is like a breath of fresh air, reminding us that the stock market is just that, a random walk, and that trying to predict it is like trying to catch a falling knife. Malkiel’s message is simple, a low-cost index fund is the way to go.

“Poor Charlie’s Almanack” by Charlie Munger

Last but certainly not least, we have “Poor Charlie’s Almanack” by Charlie Munger, the right-hand man of Warren Buffett. This compendium of wisdom from one of the greatest investors of all time is a must-read for anyone looking to take their investing game to the next level. Munger’s words of wisdom, like “I constantly see people rise in life who are not the smartest, sometimes not even the most diligent, but they are learning machines” will stay with you long after you’ve put the book down.”

The Odd Ones Out 

Step right up, folks, and take a look at the books that don’t quite fit the mold. These are the books that push the boundaries, challenge conventional wisdom, and offer a fresh perspective on the world of investing. If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, then these are the books for you.

“The Dao of Capital” by Mark Spitznagel

“The Dao of Capital” by Mark Spitznagel is a book that takes the reader on a wild journey through the history of investing, showing how embracing uncertainty and learning to “dance with the market” is key to long-term success. Spitznagel combines Eastern philosophy with cutting-edge financial strategies to create a unique investment philosophy that’s as enlightening as it is profitable. Just remember, as Spitznagel says, “Successful investing is not about trying to predict the future, but about being ready for anything.” So, be ready for anything, and let the profits roll in!

“Big Debt Crises” by Ray Dalio

Next up, we have “Big Debt Crises” by Ray Dalio, a book that’s as straight-shooting as its author. Dalio lays out the anatomy of debt crises, from the 1920s to the present day, with a clear eye and a sharp pen. In his words, “Understand how the system works, so you can navigate it.”

“The Great Crash of 1929” by John Kenneth Galbraith

Next, we have “The Great Crash of 1929” by John Kenneth Galbraith, a book that takes us back to the days of jazz, gin, and the stock market’s wild ride to oblivion. Galbraith’s masterful storytelling takes us through the events leading up to the crash, showing us how it all went down. A must-read for anyone looking to understand the lessons of the past.

“Liar’s Poker” by Michael Lewis

Third on our list is “Liar’s Poker” by Michael Lewis, a book that takes us inside the high-stakes world of Wall Street in the 1980s. Lewis tells the story of his time at Salomon Brothers, showing us the cutthroat world of bond trading and the outrageous antics of the traders. A rollicking good read, and a cautionary tale for anyone thinking about a career on Wall Street.

“AntiFragile”, “Black Swan” & “Skin in the Game” by Nassim Taleb

Last but certainly not least, we have the works of Nassim Taleb, including “AntiFragile”, “Black Swan”, and “Skin in the Game”. These books are a crash course in the art of thinking about the unknown, and how to prepare for the unexpected. Taleb’s words of wisdom, like “The future is not predictable, but it is full of opportunities” will stick with you long after you’ve put the book down.

Investment Books Recommended by Investors

Do you want to know what really works in the world of investing? Then listen to those who’ve been there and done that. These books have been recommended by seasoned investors who’ve made their fortunes in the market. They offer practical advice and real-world examples that you won’t find in any textbook.

“Thinking in Bets” by Annie Duke

“Thinking in Bets” by Annie Duke is a book that will have you seeing the stock market through the eyes of a seasoned gambler. Through her experiences as a professional poker player, Duke provides a fresh and engaging perspective on how to make better choices in uncertain situations.

This book is a must-read for anyone looking to up their game when it comes to decision-making. Duke seamlessly blends her unique expertise with insights from psychology to create a practical and thought-provoking guide to making informed choices. Perhaps a great addition when deciding on a 100x leverage strategy? And remember, as Duke says, “It’s not about being right, it’s about being better informed.” So, inform yourself, and let the profits roll in!

“Principles” & “The Changing World Order” by Ray Dalio

Ray Dalio’s “Principles” and “The Changing World Order” are the perfect companions for any adventurous traveler in the world of finance. These books are filled with Dalio’s vivid memories and experiences from his journey as the founder of one of the largest hedge funds in the world. In his own unique way, he shares his unique perspective on how the changing global order will shape our financial future and the principles that one should follow in order to navigate it successfully.

“The Psychology of Money” by Morgan Housel

Morgan Housel’s “The Psychology of Money” is a true gem in the world of finance literature. With his wit and humor, Housel delves into the deep psychological biases that drive our financial decisions. He shows us that oftentimes, it’s not just about the numbers, but our own human emotions that influence the way we handle money. He leaves us with a chuckle and a wise saying, ‘Making smart financial decisions is 20% head knowledge and 80% behavior.’ It’s a must-read for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of the human mind and money.

“The Most Important Thing” by Howard Marks

Howard Marks in “The Most Important Thing” guides us through the maze of investing, showing us the importance of having a clear framework and understanding the fundamentals of value. With his years of experience and insight, Marks teaches us how to spot potential opportunities in the market and how to avoid the pitfalls. He wisely says, ‘The key to successful investing is figuring out what is likely to happen and what is not, and investing accordingly.’ It’s a timeless classic for any serious investor.

“Against The Gods” by Peter Bernstein

Peter Bernstein’s “Against The Gods” is a journey through the history of finance, showing us how human beings have struggled against uncertainty and the unknown. With his erudite style and engaging storytelling, Bernstein brings to life the development of risk management and the evolution of financial theories. He leaves us with a sobering reminder of the importance of understanding the past, in order to shape a better financial future. A true masterpiece for any student of finance.

Investment Books Recommended by Bitcoiners

Get ready to take a trip down the rabbit hole, because this is the world of cryptocurrency. These books have been recommended by the crypto elite and offer insights into the new frontier of digital currencies and blockchain technology. They’re a must-read for anyone looking to get ahead in the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency.

“The Internet of Money” by Andreas Antonopolous

“The Internet of Money”, by Andreas Antonopolous, is a financial rollercoaster ride – a kaleidoscope of monetary possibilities that will challenge your understanding of money and its place in the modern world. From cryptocurrencies to blockchain technology, Antonopolous explains how these cutting-edge innovations are changing the way we view, use, interact with money and go about crypto portfolio allocation. With deep insight and an entertaining writing style, Antonopolous takes you on a journey through the digital revolution and its implications for the global economy. Get ready to explore a new world of finance!

“The Bitcoin Standard” by Saifedean Ammous

The “Bitcoin Standard” by Saifedean Ammous is like a shot of adrenaline straight to the heart of the financial world. This book takes us on a wild ride through the history of money, showing us how Bitcoin is changing the game and disrupting the traditional financial system. Ammous doesn’t hold back, as he pulls no punches in his critiques of government-controlled money and the current financial landscape. He is definitely not one who would be planning to short Bitcoin. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to see the future of money through a different lens.”

“The Sovereign Individual: Mastering the Transition to the Information Age” by James Dale Davidson

James Dale Davidson’s “The Sovereign Individual” is like a dusty old book that you find in the back of an antique shop, but once you open it up, it’s filled with gold. This book is a timeless treasure, showing us how the transition to the information age is changing the very fabric of society and our financial systems. With his insightful foresight, Davidson teaches us how to navigate this new world and become ‘sovereign individuals’ in a world of unprecedented change. As he puts it, ‘The future is not what it used to be.’

“Debt: The First 5000 Years” by David Graeber

David Graeber’s “Debt: The First 5000 Years” is a history lesson unlike any other. Graeber takes us on a journey through the history of debt, showing us how this concept has shaped our world and our financial systems. He pulls no punches in his critiques of the current debt-based monetary system, leaving us with a thought-provoking call to action. As he says, ‘Debt is not just money we owe, it’s stories we live by.’ It’s a must-read for anyone looking to understand the deeper roots of finance and money.”

“The Price of Tomorrow” by Jeff Booth

Jeff Booth’s “The Price of Tomorrow” is like a glimpse into a futuristic world, where the rules of finance have changed. With his innovative ideas, Booth shows us how technology is reshaping the way we think about value, price, and money. He paints a vivid picture of a future where abundance and efficiency reign supreme. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to see the future of finance and economics with a fresh set of eyes.

Picks From The Morpher Office 

Alright, let’s keep it real. These are the books that your coworkers are secretly reading at their desks, that your boss has on their bookshelf, and that your colleagues are recommending to each other. From insider tales of insider trading to dark pool trading and philosophical musings on the nature of money, these books capture the imagination of investors. So, brew a fresh cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and get ready to delve into the captivating pages of the best investing books recommended by Morpher Moguls.

“Physics from Finance” by Jakob Schwichtenberg

“Physics from Finance” by Jakob Schwichtenberg is the perfect read for those looking to unleash their inner financial wizard and their inner physicist. This book takes the stuffy, complex theories of the universe and turns them on its head, using the world of finance as a tool to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos.

Think of it like a ride on a cosmic stock market rollercoaster, where instead of chasing dollar signs, you’re chasing fundamental interactions and fiber bundles. Schwichtenberg takes you on a wild journey through the world of physics, using financial concepts as a roadmap to navigate the uncharted territories of the universe. And the best part? You don’t need a Ph.D. in physics or a Wall Street insider to understand it. So, put down your financial reports, grab a drink, and strap in for a wild ride through the cosmos. Who says you can’t have your quantum mechanics and investments too?

“Margin of Safety” by Seth Klarman

Seth Klarman’s Margin of Safety is like a road map to investing success. This book takes us on a journey through the mind of one of the most successful value investors of all time, showing us how to find undervalued assets and avoid costly mistakes. Klarman shares his insights and wisdom in a way that only he could. As he says, ‘The margin of safety is achieved through the purchase of securities at prices sufficiently below underlying value to allow for human error, bad luck, or extreme volatility in a complex, unpredictable and rapidly changing world.’ It’s a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the stock market and come out on top.” 

Fun Fact: It’s gospel among investment types. Print copies are limited and sell for thousands. 

“Black Edge” by Sheelah Kolhatkar

Sheelah Kolhatkar’s “Black Edge” is a tale of greed, power, and corruption. This book takes us inside the world of insider trading, showing us how some of the biggest players in finance broke the law and made millions in the process. Kolhatkar doesn’t pull any punches, giving us an inside look at the seedy underbelly of Wall Street and the people who profit from it. As she puts it, ‘The story of insider trading is the story of the American financial system.’ It’s a must-read for anyone looking to see the dark side of finance and understand how the system is rigged against the average person.”

“The Man Who Solved the Market” by Gregory Zuckerman

Gregory Zuckerman’s “The Man Who Solved the Market” is the story of a financial wizard who changed the game forever. This book takes us on a journey through the life and mind of Jim Simons, a math genius who used algorithms to beat the stock market and make billions in the process. Zuckerman doesn’t hold back, giving us an inside look at the world of quant trading and the people who made it happen. As he says, ‘Jim Simons’s formula was so successful, it sparked a revolution on Wall Street and around the world.’ It’s a must-read for anyone looking to see the future of finance and understand how algorithms are changing the way we invest.

“A Man for All Markets” by Edward O. Thorp

Last but certainly not least, we have Edward O. Thorp’s “A Man for All Markets” which is a tale of a financial giant who took on the world and won. This book takes us on a journey through the life and mind of Ed Thorp, a math genius who used his intellect and audacity to beat the odds and make millions in the process. Thorp gives us an inside look at his life and the many markets he conquered. As he puts it, ‘My approach to life is to take on challenges and solve problems, whether it be in mathematics, finance, or otherwise.’ It’s a must-read for anyone looking to see the world through the eyes of a financial master and understand how one person can change the game forever.

Conclusion on the Best Investment Books

And with that, we come to the end of our wild ride through the world of investing literature. But let’s be real, this is just the beginning of your financial journey. With these books as your roadmap, you’ll be able to navigate the market like a seasoned pro, ready to take on the challenges and reap the rewards that come with investing.

So let’s raise a glass to the bold and daring investors who dared to think outside the box, who took risks and made waves in the world of finance. These books are a testament to their spirit and a reminder that in a market that’s always changing, it’s the ones who read and find new ways to see the market that come out on top.

And as for the financial world, well, let’s just say it’s in for one hell of a finale. With these books as your arsenal, you’ll be ready to take on Wall Street, challenge conventional wisdom, and create your own path to financial success. So, grab your shades, light a smoke, and get ready to take on the financial world, because this is where the real action begins.

PS: If you’ve gone through all of these books and are longing for more, continue reading specific stock markets books.