Unfortunately risk is not understood by many investors. In short run, risk is in volatility of price of underlying asset i.e., how much it can rise and fall given a period of time. But in long run risk is not volatility but the risk is to maintain the purchasing power of your money.

Stock valuations, which are often much higher, are based on other considerations related to the business' operating cash flow, profits and future prospects; some factors are derived from the accounting statements.