Five Minutes with James Stewart

The Hong Kong-based pro and entrepreneur – owner of J Stewart Golf, suppliers of bespoke golf products – tells us about his standout performances, his admiration for Tom Watson and his investment philosophy

Stewart’s best tournament score was 64 over the New Course at Fanling

Do you have a favourite course?

The best course I think I've played is the National Golf Club of Canada, near Toronto. But my favourite course might be Shadow Creek in Las Vegas. I've enjoyed a few good money games out there!

Who would be in your dream fourball?

Tom Watson, Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods. I've always liked Watson (pictured). I think it's amazing what he's achieved, and he's still playing great even though he's in his 60s. I think everyone would have loved to have seen him win The Open and make history in 2009 when he came so close at Turnberry.

How do you maintain focus during a round?

It's a cliché but I try and take each shot as it comes. It's easy to become distracted with what you've done previously in your round but each hole presents a new challenge, a new opportunity. That's what you have to focus on.

How has golf helped in growing your business?

When I stopped playing full time to start my company I was helped by the fact that I had met so many people from different walks of life through playing the game. Golf is a great way to network – more so than any other sport. I think spending four and a half hours on a course with someone gives you a good idea if you want to do business with them.

How would you describe your overall investment philosophy?

Fairly conservative. I made some poor investments during the Global Financial Crisis and I'm hesitant to invest in things I don't know much about. Unless I'm familiar with how a company operates or have a good knowledge of its products then I'll generally stay away.

What key lessons have you learned through your personal investing experiences?

It's easy to be tempted by rumours of a particular stock – this led to some poorly judged investments in the past – but now I'll only listen to professional advisors who I've built up trust with.

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