Investing in a company or industry that you 'know' is, IMHO, the wrong reason to select an investment. There may also be the possibility that your decision making process will involve emotion which is not a particularly useful investment tool.
You have to make some key decisions first, concerning whether you wish to invest for income or growth. Then research, research then do some more research. Never invest what you cannot afford to lose. And always, always, diversify.
Personally, I think we're in for a pretty black time starting at some point in the next 18 months. And it could, and probably will, last a decade. 2008 will appear nothing worse then getting home to realise you have lost a fiver from your back pocket. Look for stocks that will survive and thrive in such an environment.
I recently switched out of two great performing stocks (that have continued to do well since) in order to increase my punt on a firm into which I had invested hours and hours of research. 43% so far this year makes me a happy bunny but I'm watching so very closely and continuing my research. The sector is one that will thrive when the brown stuff hits the fan - precious metals mining, specifically (for me) small and medium sized gold mining operations.
Make decisions about what you want.
Research.
Diverify.
Then research some more.
Good luck - and DYOR.
