7. BE AN "INDIAN GIVER"

 This is the power of getting something for nothing.

When the first white settlers came to America, they were taken aback by a cultural practice some American Indians had.

For example, if a settler was cold, the Indian would give the person a blanket. Mistaking it for a gift, the settler was often offended when the Indian asked for it back.

The Indians also got upset when they realized the settlers did not want to give it back. That is where the term "Indian giver" came from. A simple cultural misunderstanding.

In the world of the "asset column," being an Indian giver is vital to wealth. The sophisticated investor's first question is, "How fast do I get my money back?" They also want to know what they get for free, also called a piece of the action.

That is why the ROI, or return of and on investment, is so important.

 Ray Kroc, of McDonald's fame, sold hamburger franchises, not because he loved hamburgers, but because he wanted the real estate; under the franchise for free.

So wise investors must look at more than ROI; it's the assets you get for free once you get your money back. That is financial intelligence.