It is difficult but not impossible to do better than the stock market average.
But it takes a lot of reading to get there. For most people it is easier and safer
if they just save their money, buy into an index fund anytime there is a bear
market, and then just hold it forever. Then when they retire, they can sell it
off as needed. But for those who want to invest time and energy in study, the
stock market is a sea of endless opportunity that can produce unimaginable
wealth.