WALL STREET PROSPECTIVE

(Parnassus Fund)

My thoughts own socially responsible business investing.

After viewing this fund's performance with the S&P 500 and learning a little about the investment practices, I would have to say that I can't see any reason why I wouldn't invest in socially aware funds.  It is pretty hard to make a concrete decision on exactly how much I would rely on these type of funds considering how the entire stock market is currently taking a blow to the gut.  The way Parnassus invests isn't at all scientific.  They do some back checks, eliminate those companies who don't fit the criteria which they feel is that of a "socially aware" fund, and invest in a reasonable amount of money in the most profitable avenue.  It's also hard to really label a business as socially responsible.  The bottom line for all businesses is longevity and the only way to accomplished this is by maximizing profits. When the goal is to accumulate as much money as possible you can never trust or assume the motives behind a company's actions.  When it comes down to investing my money in the market I will stick to my usual pattern of checking history, studying the stocks products, advertising strategies, and whether or not the timing is right to purchase or sell.