About Ariel Appreciation Fund
About Ariel Appreciation Fund
More than just a mutual fund, the Ariel Appreciation Fund is John Rogers’ signature achievement—a reflection of his values and strategy in action. Created to unlock value in mid-cap companies, the fund continues to defy expectations.
A viewfinder approach
Rogers calls the fund a “viewfinder”—a metaphor for identifying what others overlook. While most funds chase trends, Ariel dives deeper, targeting fundamentally sound companies with unfairly low valuations.
Stability as a mission
The fund isn’t just about maximizing gains. It aims to offer stability in the face of market turbulence. Rogers has shown that sticking with undervalued but steady companies can deliver consistent success. The fund’s approach relies on rigorous analysis and long-term positioning—growing wealth with less drama.
Wisdom through reflection
One of Rogers’ guiding quotes is: “The only mistake is not learning from the mistake.” This mindset is embedded in every part of Ariel’s strategy—refining decisions over time. Ariel Appreciation Fund is living proof that persistence and perspective can lead the way forward.
Ultimately, the fund is more than numbers and charts—it’s a reflection of Rogers’ lifelong mission to do well by doing good.
John Rogers deciphers intricate market data with a keen eye, transforming seemingly ordinary trends into extraordinary opportunities that reveal the underlying potential of the market.
His investment strategy
His investment strategy
If you think investing is just tossing dice and hoping for the best, John Rogers will kindly hand you a chart—and a reality check. His approach is anything but random.
Mastering the art of patience
Rogers champions the value of time in the market over trying to time the market. While some investors rush to chase the newest shiny stock, he takes the long view. His philosophy: buy what you know and hold it. Or as his grandmother might say, “Patience, young Padawan—wealth isn’t built in a day.”
Purpose-driven investing
Rogers believes investing should serve a greater purpose. He strongly supports ESG principles—environmental, social, and governance—emphasizing that capital should work not just for profits, but for progress. His view? Money should be a force for good.
Real-world applications
Rogers doesn’t just talk the talk. He’s invested in overlooked companies with strong fundamentals—often holding while others panic sell. Think spinach over candy: not flashy, but incredibly good for long-term performance. He reminds us that investing is a marathon, not a sprint.
His strategy proves that Wall Street can be as much about discipline and vision as it is about risk and reward. Every move is measured, every investment intentional.
Why he’s well known
Why he’s well known
John Rogers isn’t just another name floating in the wide ocean of finance. He’s widely recognized as one of America’s most respected investors—rising from humble beginnings to become a pillar of modern investment thinking. But what truly sets him apart in a field crowded with alpha-chasers and Wall Street sharks?
A quick history
Born and raised in Chicago, Rogers attended Princeton University, where his journey began—not with a finance degree, but a major in history. This background perhaps explains his obsession with learning from the past. After a short stint as a stockbroker—about as thrilling as a blank calendar—he set out to build something bigger on his own terms.
Founding Ariel Investments
In 1983, he founded Ariel Investments, becoming CEO and chief investment officer. There, he fused his legendary patience with a deep, fundamental approach to long-term investing. Sound complicated? Maybe for most of us, but for Rogers, it’s second nature. His mantra: invest as if you’re buying a business, not just a ticker symbol.
Recognition and giving back
But Rogers isn’t just a financial heavyweight—he’s also a mentor and an advocate for financial education. His philanthropic work, especially in Chicago, has empowered countless communities, from children learning the value of money to students receiving scholarships. His mission: making financial literacy as common as superhero daydreams.
With prestigious awards and board seats under his belt, Rogers is living proof that diligence and vision can elevate investing into a vehicle for meaningful, lasting impact.
Last Update
31.3.25
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WHO IS JOHN ROGERS
Dive into the world of John Rogers, the legendary investor leading Ariel Investments. Learn what makes him unique, his long-term investing strategy, and the philosophy behind the Ariel Appreciation Fund.