@fisteganos, Thanks for the article!
I can relate to this write-up. I had a similar problem some years ago - what to do with a large sum of money especially when a certain investment of yours suddenly grows exponentially. At the time, I brainstormed hard about it for several months. I ended up cashing out some of it and diversifying into some other ventures. Some went terribly south and some did perform fairly well the reason why I am still in the game. Granted my portfolio is still going strong after many years means I didn't really do bad though looking back, there are things I could have done much better. In all, I cherish the wisdom gained in the process of trying to solve the problem especially from the failed projects.
If I may suggest:-
- Pay off your debts/loan if you have any or at least, pay off a significant portion of it. Don't be too greedy.
- Have some saving because rainy days will eventually come.
- If you are to diversify or restructure your portfolio, make sure you pick solid businesses with proven track record - revenue performance, management and other business metrics are on point or seem to be on track or maybe, consider some physical assets.
- Find some people and invest in them - it could be in their education... sort of like giving back to someone in need or underprivileged than you are. It could be a family member, a friend, a charity... someone whom you think is most likely not to abuse your hard-earned efforts.
- Cash out some, invest in yourself - travel and build up a collection of experiences and memories. Go to those places you only had in your dreams, acquire those new skills you always needed - read more, learn more. You will have something to talk about in the future.
As long as you aim at gaining and transferring value from your "large sum of money", I will argue you won't go wrong and you will stand the test of time.
I hope you gain plenty of wisdom on learning how to solve this problem. All the best on your newfound fortune.