Ask Fred > Career/Work > What is the difference between gambling and investing?

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Dear Fred

I don't agree when you say gambling is a sin. Yes, it is a "gamble" with your money but if you have any investments in the stock market, that also is a gamble - you are hoping to make money on your investment. Don't you agree?

Fred's Response

There is a sharp difference between investment and speculation. In investments you are playing the odds with you. In speculation you are playing against the odds. For example it would be a much better investment to own the slot machines in Las Vegas then play them. I accept that speculation has an element of gambling but not like a game of chance which is largely motivated by greed and fantasy.