The investing world runs on numbers. We look at the statistical tricks that make bad investments look good, mediocre track records look brilliant, and risks disappear entirely.

And in the Dumb Question of the Week: What makes a finding 'statistically significant'?

---

Thank you to Trading 212 for sponsoring this episode.

Claim free fractional shares worth up to ‎£⁠100. Just create and verify a Trading 212 Invest or Stocks ISA account, make a minimum deposit of £1, and use the promo code "RAMIN" within 10 days of signing up, or use the following link:

Sponsored Link. Terms apply - trading212.com/join/RAMIN

When investing, your capital is at risk and you may get back less than invested. Past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. Pies & Autoinvest is an execution-only service. Not investment advice or portfolio management. Automatic investing refers to executing scheduled deposits. You are responsible for all investment and rebalancing decisions. Free shares can be fractional. 212 Cards are issued by Paynetics which provide all payment services. T212 provides customer support and user interface. Terms and fees apply.

---

Get in touch

📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com

🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm

---

Join PensionCraft

🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com

▶️ Subscribe on YouTube

---

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes and is not financial advice. We do not provide recommendations or endorse any decision to buy, sell or hold any security. We cannot be held responsible for any actions listeners may take and investors are encouraged to seek independent financial advice.

Copyright 2026 Many Happy Returns

Statistical Sleight of Hand: How Good Numbers Hide Bad Investments

Many Happy Returns

Statistical Sleight of Hand: How Good Numbers Hide Bad Investments