The Market Watch podcast and blog provide you with the benefit of my 30+ years experience as a stock market trader.
October_10th_2012.mp3 Economy Shanghaied Global economic activity is the key to shift pessimistic forecasts to a more optimistic outlook. Shanghai Composite Index (Click For Larger Picture) The European crisis has toned down but is a long way from producing impressive economic results for some time. The U.S. economy is stuck in a political shoot out that will drag out to the last second of the Presidential election and whoever wins is still likely to have little improvement for the balance of 2012. The wild card is China, the International Monetary Fund predicted China's economy, the World's second-biggest, will "soft land" by growing 7.8 percent this year and 8.2 percent next year, boosted by interest rate cuts in June and July. China has targeted growth of 7.5 percent this year. Yesterday, the Shanghai Composite Index moved above its 20 and 50 day moving averages and showed early signs of outperformance relative to the S&P 500 Index. Strength follows news that the Chinese government added $40 billion of monetary stimulus just prior to the Golden Week celebrated last week. GDP growth will likely be between 7% and the official target of 7.5% a long way from a recession. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional. Some information contained in this blog may no longer be time relevant, please use your own due diligence when investing.
October_3rd_2012.mp3 Debatable Outcome U.S. Presidential debates begin tonight, television news reporters have pulled out all the same old supposed zingers from past U.S. presidential debates to warm up the audience for the imminent round of face-offs and gaffes. General Election: Romney vs. Obama (Click For Larger Picture) With 24 hour round the clock media reports highlighting differences between Republicans and Democrats often at polar opposites. The diverse polar split in the U.S. political arena is unlikely to let up for years to come. Some positive economic news is starting to filter out but the market lacks confidence It is hard to muster confidence in the economy when the fate of the World is in the hands of feuding politicians. Last month we posted a poll showing Obama and Romney virtually tied. Media reports in the last 24 hours show the gap closing once again. The uncertainty and lack of confidence is prevalent among many voters as well as current markets. Pessimism is currently rampant but the market is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional. Some information contained in this blog may no longer be time relevant, please use your own due diligence when investing.
September_26th_2012.mp3 Emotions Despite recent strength in equities the "Mood" has been negative and most funds have extremely high cash reserves. Market Emotion Cycle (Click For Larger Picture) Markets have always moved on emotion, which has caused extreme levels both up and down. Usually FEAR & GREED drives the market but over the last 3 years it has been desperation, panic, despondency, depression, disgust and doubt. Pundits suggest we have turned generations of investors away with lack of performance and a distrust of market integrity. Prior to reaching optimism is a series of rallies with doubt and despondency. Stock markets are a leading indicator for the economy and it appears a shift is coming. By the time the media picks up on this shift of attitude it will have moved the market. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional. Some information contained in this blog may no longer be time relevant, please use your own due diligence when investing.
September_19th_2012.mp3 Home Sweet Home A root cause of the economic upheaval was the housing market. Today both new housing starts and existing home sales were released for August with impressive results. Housing Starts (Click For Larger Picture) Home sales have recovered after being a root cause of economic collapse. Existing home sales rose strongly for a second straight month, up 7.8 percent in August to an annual unit rate of 4.82 million. This is the largest monthly percentage gain since last August and the highest rate since May 2010. All regions show high single digit gains in the month. Supply on the market, at 6.1 months at the current sales rate, remains tight and may be limiting sales. Currently bullish sentiment is low despite equities challenging recent highs. The bullish sentiment is not as important as confidence which has been lacking with the recent melt up. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
September_12th_2012.mp3 China Enters the 21st Century Improvement in European and North American equity markets in the last few weeks is encouraging. The naysayers have now shifted their pessimism toward China. Total Electricity Consumption (Click For Larger Picture) Industrial Production (Click For Larger Picture) Despite positive news in Europe and better than expected U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the United States which rose 1.7% in the second quarter of 2012 backing up a series of economic indicators showing improvement. Media attention is focusing on a slowdown in China. Market pundits are predicting a 100% chance of a global recession in the coming six months, due to China having a hard landing. What is the best way to find the real growth of China? Historic correlations between electricity consumption and year-over-year GDP growth. The latest number for electricity output/consumption growth in China is 4.5% in July 2012 up from 3.7% in June and 2.7% in May 2012. So we can assume that year-over-year Chinese GDP growth will be between 5% and the official target of 7.7% a long way from a recession. A stagnation in electricity output that fanned speculation of a China slowdown may instead be evidence of an accelerated transition to a more services-based economy. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
September_5th_2012.mp3 Too Close to Call Confidence? It is hard to muster confidence in the economy when the fate of the World is in the hands of feuding politicians. But facts are building for an upward turn in Global Equities despite the disarray reported by the media. Romney VS. Obama (Click For Larger Picture) With 24 hour round the clock media reports highlighting differences between Republicans and Democrats often at polar opposites. The diverse polar split in the U.S. political arena is unlikely to let up before the November 2012 Presidential elections. The public is becoming very concerned over the financial situation globally with protesters again in the streets. Many feel credit will be too restrictive to support economic growth. Near panic emotions for some followers and market pundits are sensationalized by media coverage. With all the commotion in the world the U.S. is still the safe harbor, the Worlds main currency is still the U.S. Dollar. It is too close to call the U.S. election with Obama support at 46.4% and Romney at 46.3%. Uncertainty and lack of confidence is prevalent. Pessimism is currently rampant but the market is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments, There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
August_31st_2012.mp3 Dollars and Sense Foreign exchange rates (FOREX) can make or break investment returns. Canadian Dollar - US Dollar (Click For Larger Picture) As Canadians we often value and compare products in Canadian dollars and U.S. dollars. In the last 5 years we have seen the Canadian against the U.S. dollar trade as high as 1.1038 in November 2007 and as low as .7656 in March 2009. To realize the absolute value of currency exchange rates consider this; a $25,000 U.S. car; the post war low on the Canadian dollar was .6179 in 2002 and reached a premium high against the U.S. of 1.1038 in 2007. The $25,000 U.S. car would have cost $40,460 in 2002 but only would have cost only $22,649 in 2007 a 78.6% change. Getting the currency right can make or break ones investment return, even a losing purchase could turn positive when conversions are made. It is paramount that investments are considered and evaluated for upside potential reward measured against potential downside risk. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
August_29th_2012.mp3 Economic Growth Pessimism runs rampant despite improving economic data. U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the United States expanded 1.7 percent in the second quarter of 2012 stronger than earlier report of 1.5%. U.S. GDP Growth Rate (Click For Larger Picture) Despite an improving U.S. job and housing markets, consumer confidence fell to the lowest level it's been in several months. The results are the latest swing in the index, which has been on a rollercoaster. Better than expected U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the United States Rose 1.7% in the second quarter of 2012 and backs up a series of economic indicators showing improvement. Pending U.S. home sales is at the highest level in 2 ½ years. Earnings are improving with over 60% of reporting companies beating their estimates. Despite recent media attention and suggestions that we are headed into a recession which would be two quarters of negative GDP growth the facts do not support that call. These events must be analyzed as to how it affects individual stocks that will benefit from this ever changing economy with incredible potential. It is paramount that investments are considered and evaluated for upside potential reward measured against potential downside risk. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
August_24th_2012.mp3 A Good Thing Commodity prices have been steadily rising over the last two months. Is this a good thing, or bad? CRB Index (Click For Larger Picture) Rising commodity prices have the media and market pundits warning of soaring inflation. Many analysts warn that the current easy money policy by global central banks will devalue currency and push commodities including food stock to levels unaffordable by many already unemployed. However bleak things seem, there is often another side to the story. In 2008 commodity prices peaked and fell 58% causing markets and the economy to crash. It took two years to recover and peaked in 2011 having risen 81% off depressed prices. Over the last year the economy and commodity prices have been subdued. Three months ago commodities bottomed out and economic activity started to pick up. The CRB index is rising but into overhead consolidation which should contain any run away prices and support is at June's low. This configuration will support increased economic growth while keeping inflation at bay. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
August_22nd_2012.mp3 Back To Where We Were Back to where we were. The housing market which was a key factor in the economic melt down has stabilized and is up 10.4% year over year. Existing Home Sales (Click For Larger Picture) Over the last month we have seen the yield on U.S. treasury notes move up 50 basis points. An upward move of a ½ % could slow the recovery or may be the catalyst to encourage a surge of buying as rates show a bottom. Currently bullish sentiment is low despite equities challenging recent highs. The bullish sentiment is not as important as confidence which has been lacking with the recent melt up. Without confidence even the simplest accomplishments are beyond ones grasp. With many investors at current extremes contrary opinion is important; historically turning points come at these levels. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
August_15th_2012.mp3 Gold Consolidation What goes up goes up must come down. I will be back after these messages with a discussion. Gold (Click For Larger Picture) Media and market participants often get caught up in the mood of the moment and excite emotions to a fever pitch. Markets feed on these emotions and take things to a euphoric level. Media sensationalizes the movement by finding reinforcing reasons for even higher levels. Infomercials bolster the fever and what goes up goes up goes up. Pessimism also spreads like wildfire as negative news brings more negative news and panic and fear set in. Does it ever end? Newton's law of gravity will come into play "What goes up must come down; for every action there is equal and opposite reaction." One must learn to think outside of the box and step off a trend before it ends. Parabolic moves are a tell tale sign that warns us to be nimble and assess our current positions. Many expect Gold to recover and post new highs however the pattern suggests a consolidation in the $1400 to $1700 area. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
August_8th_2012.mp3 A Positive Negative Market sentiment is at bearish extremes. Media reports continue to shock investors with re-takes of old news. European woes are of great concern but the markets seem to have discounted with recent strength in equities. Market Sentiment (Click For Larger Picture) Investor sentiment indicators are at near panic levels. Despite this the S&P 500 index closed above 1400 yesterday and is set to test this years high of 1422.38. It has been four years since we traded higher. The market is finding strength even before the "Fiscal Cliff" and the ugliest Presidential election campaign as U.S. politicians continue to dig in along party lines. Markets move on emotions, usually FEAR & GREED, but lately it has been near panic. Currently bullish sentiment is as low as at any time since the recessions end. With investors at current extremes contrary opinion is important; historically turning points come at these levels. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
July_18th_2012.mp3 Oil Spark In the last 20 days crude oil has jumped 16% and could signify an economic turn while Global economic forecasts are in disarray. Crude Oil (Click For Larger Picture) Crude oil is volatile in the last 4 months; from highs of $110.55 in March of this year to the lows of $77.28 last month, a $33.27 decline or 30%. The prior 5 month period saw crude oil jump from $74.95 in October 2011 to $110.55 a $35.60 rise or 36%. So what we have proved is crude oil is volatile. Then why is this latest 16% rise of late significant? Fiddling while Rome burns! European economies are in disarray causing concern globally and dire forecasts of the future. But why would crude oil rise if we are heading into a World wide slowdown? Perhaps we are seeing a paradigm shift that few foresee. After pumping liquidity into international economies do we have a spark that has ignited oil? Pessimism is at a peak gloom and doom is prevalent in every media report. Little is expected from the massive U.S. market with political turmoil expected to continue into the 2012 elections. Prepare for the unexpected, be ready for a turn it will occur when the least expect it! There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
July_11th_2012(1).mp3 High Road, Low Road The S&P 500 stock index has doubled from the lows set in 2009. Fear and bearish forecasts still surrounded equity markets. We are currently within 2% of 2011 highs high and 5.6% off our 2012 high. S&P 500 Index (Click For Larger Picture) European woes and Global debt concerns, continue to plaque equity markets. News media and many market pundits remain negative. Pessimism is rampant, the fiscal cliff, the U.S. debt ceiling, Chinese accounting, Russian corruption, U.S. political impasse, Arab spring implosion, Bank reforms and Iran. The S&P 500 Index which has had a series of higher highs and higher lows currently 1,343.41 trapped between near term support of 1287.62 and resistance of 1440.22. A challenge of the all time high on the S&P 500 (1576.59) is inline with the wider uptrend of 1563.55. Current drift needs energy, volumes are low and confidence is non existent. Despite the pattern of higher highs and lower lows there is little reason to expect a positive outcome but with low interest rates and high cash holdings it remains a likely possibility latter this year. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
July_4th_2012.mp3 Shifting Emotions Pessimism was at a peak before Friday's jump in stock prices. Most funds have the lowest equity component in 15 years. Is market emotion turning positive? Market Emotion Cycle (Click For Larger Picture) Despite media focus on the European Union and rising tensions over Iranian nuclear development along with Syrian suppression of another Arab spring. A shift in Market Emotion is digging out from near panic and despondency. Markets have always moved on emotions, usually FEAR & GREED, but over the last 3 years it has been desperation, panic, despondency, depression, disgust and doubt. It appears we may be gaining confidence, as shorts scramble to cover positions. With confidence you can reach truly amazing heights; without confidence, even the simplest accomplishments are beyond ones grasp. Stock markets are a leading indicator for the economy and it appears a shift is coming. By the time the media picks up on this shift of attitude it will have moved the market. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
June_27th_2012.mp3 Natural Gas In the last 2 months despite media reports of a bankrupt Greece and the suggested complete melt down of the euro zone along with rising tensions over Iranian nuclear development and Syrian suppression of another Arab spring, something interesting happened. Natural Gas (Click For Larger Picture) Markets have always moved on emotions, usually FEAR & GREED, but over the last 3 years it has been desperation, panic, despondency, depression, disgust and doubt. Many market participants have dug in cutting usual volumes in half. Over the last two months an important harbinger has occurred. Natural Gas prices have risen 55%. From a low of 1.90 on April 20th we traded 2.95 this morning. The use of Natural Gas and realization of a growing market is key for the industry which has been decimated over the last few years. This turn may be a harbinger of better times ahead. Market shifts are a leading indicator for the economy. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
June_20th_2012.mp3 Bottom In Rates Interest Rates on 10 year U.S. T-Notes have likely seen the lows hitting 1.44% on June 1st all rates could start to rise including mortgage rates. U.S. 10-year T-Note (Click For Larger Picture) Ten year U.S. treasuries have been as high as 2.4% in March 2012 and as low as 1.44% this month. These rates could rise to 2% shortly and as high as 4.3% next year. It is hard to believe at this level but normal 10 year interest rates historically are 7%. If rates normalize capital erosion could be staggering, many conservative investors could find their savings tied up in bond funds in the wrong place at the wrong time. Bonds are risky at current levels. Seniors and savers would welcome a 7% return but would hurt current 10 year bond investors. Rates will rise, mortgage rates will rise and this may boost home sales as buyers attempt to lock in low rate loans. The U.S. Federal reserve has pledged to keep short rates low for the next 2 years; however investors and borrowers should be aware that rising rates could have catastrophic results. A 10 year bond could lose 7 ½% of principal value if rates rose from current 1.66% to 2.4% and a staggering 38% of principal lost at 7%. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
June_13th_2012.mp3 Currency Valuation Currency levels matter, as Canadians we often value and compare products in Canadian dollars and U.S. dollars. CADUSD (Click For Larger Picture) In the last 5 years we have seen the Canadian against the U.S. dollar trade as high as 1.1038 in November 2007 and as low as .7656 in March 2009. To realize the absolute value of currency exchange rates consider this; a $25,000 U.S. car; the post war low on the Canadian dollar was .6179 in 2002 and reached a premium high against the U.S. of 1.1038 in 2007. The $25,000 U.S. car would have cost $40,460 in 2002 but only would have cost only $22,649 in 2007 a 78.6% change. Getting the currency right can make or break ones investment return, even a losing purchase could turn positive when conversions are made. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
June_6th_2012.mp3 Gaining Support A month ago U.S. stocks were at a 3 year high, turn on a news report yesterday and media reports are disusing a crash. Dow Jones Industrial Average (Click For Larger Picture) Three years ago March 6th 2009, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell to 6,469 a month ago we hit 13,338.66 more than double. The advance had corrections along the way 14.6% in the spring of 2010, and 19.2% in the summer of 2011. As discussed in the March 7th radio show a consolidation correction was expected. From last months high we have fallen 9.8%. Markets do not go straight up or straight down but there are days it seems that way. Over the last 5 years, a 9.8% correction has occurred, is it over? Unlikely since 9.8% is shallow and pessimism is at a high; but with higher highs and higher lows a challenge of the 2007 all time high of 14,198.10 is expected over the next year a further 16% move. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
May_30th_2012.mp3 Inflation? Inflation or Deflation; too many dollars chasing too few goods or too many goods with too few dollars. Inflation Rate by Country (Click For Larger Picture) There is no shortage of dollars in the system with Global liquidity near all time highs. Note India's inflation rate of 7.23% leads the pack by double as that country is growing at over 7%; China is growing at over 8% but reports inflation of 3.4%. Most countries are in the 2 to 3% level in growth and inflation. Supply / Demand for products in North America are not out of whack as sales and inventories are in line. Inflation as a concern in North America is relegated to the distant future. Developed economies have not fully healed and consumers are not yet ready to stand on their own two feet, any meaningful inflation is still a couple of years away. Perhaps it is time to reassess ones exposure to Gold's and Oils that are so prevalent in Canadian Stocks and over exposed in Canadian Mutual Funds, With the Canadian dollar falling against the U.S. perhaps it is time to increase ones exposure to U.S. equities. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
May_23rd_2012.mp3 Bullish/Bearish Sentiment Investors are at bearish extremes. Media reports of a bankrupt Greece and the possibility of their withdrawal from the Euro, a failed new issue of Facebook and the pending "Fiscal Cliff" capping off concerns as U.S. politicians continue to dig in along party lines. Contrarian Indicators: Bearish Small Investors (Click For Larger Picture) Markets move on emotions, usually FEAR & GREED, but lately it has been desperation, panic, despondency, depression, disgust and doubt all usually covered by the media in daily news reports. Currently bullish sentiment is as low as at any time since the recessions end and the bearish outlook is challenging recent highs. Without confidence, even the simplest accomplishments are beyond ones grasp. With investors at current extremes contrary opinion is important; historically turning points come at these levels. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
May_16th_2012.mp3 Global Money Supply Uncertainty rules, media moguls seize the opportunity to stress the worst case scenarios; Greece withdrawing from the Euro, falling off a Fiscal Cliff, China slowdown, plunging commodity prices. Global Money Supply (Click For Larger Picture) Despite news reports there is solid growth and earnings coming out of recent data releases in the U.S. Pessimistic attitudes prevail influenced by media sensationalizing the negatives. Confidence is key, market participants have lost trust in financial markets and politicians. If investors can envision and start to believe markets will achieve increased economic activity. Yesterdays game is ending and tomorrows game has started. Money supply is at an all time high with World Governments spending at record levels to stimulate the economy but the multiplier of money had fallen to post war lows. The turn of a dollar had slowed from three times a day to less than once a day and only recently climbed back above the once a day level. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
May_9th_2012.mp3 Global Unemployment Rates Europessimism has once again seized Global markets. Austerity measures causing even higher unemployment in southern European nations. Unemployment rates adjusted to U.S. concepts, 20 countires, seasonally adjusted, October 2010 - March 2012 (Click For Larger Picture) Elections in Greece and France have re-focused concerns on the forced contagion of austerity measures. Fear of inflation has lessened with gold falling below $1600. The economy and unemployment have taken center stage. Over the last decade uncertainty and fear has ruled, pundits have caused the markets to climb a wall of worry. The wall of worry continues to build and it provides an excellent backdrop for value investing, opportunities abound, this is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
May_2nd_2012.mp3 China Growth Concerns over a slowdown in Chinese economic growth are misplaced. The growth is amazing and is likely to prevent a Global recession. China GDP (Click For Larger Picture) Chinese GDP is currently $7.3 Trillion while the U.S. GDP level is $15.1 Trillion. Chinese GDP growth is about 8% currently the U.S. is roughly 2%. The real eye opener comes when one considers levels 5 years ago Chinese GDP was $3.28 Trillion and U.S. GDP $13.81 trillion. Chinese GDP has more than doubled increasing at 123% while the U.S. is up 9.3%. With 19.5% of the Worlds population compared to the U.S. at 4.5% it is hard to see any slowdown being of concern whereas the fact of the U.S. losing global leadership will no doubt become a paramount concern to Americans. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
April_25th_2012.mp3 Global GDP Forecast Global Growth is underway everywhere but the Eurozone, which has been hammered by austerity measures. Average Annual Growth Rate GDP Forecast (Click For Larger Picture) Average annual growth rate forecasts are impressive on a Global basis. Eurozone countries are the exception and daily media reports encourage pessimistic attitudes focusing on the woes of Europe. Note the top two highest growth rates; over 8% in China and over 7% in India. China has 19.22% of the Worlds population and India has 17.27% a combined force of 36.49% of human beings growing at an annual rate of over 7%. This is bullish for equities and should fuel growth for North American markets. These events must be analyzed as to how it affects individual stocks that will benefit from this ever changing economy with incredible potential. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
April_18th_2012.mp3 Record Earnings U.S. equities are strong while Canadian markets can not surpass last year's highs. It is time to diversify at least half your positions south of the border. S&P 500 Earnings (Click For Larger Picture) Despite European woes and political infighting there are pockets of strength in U.S. markets. Indeed earnings of S&P 500 stocks are at an all time record high. Global positioning is changing right before our eyes, the once mighty Eurozone which was a contender for the number 1 spot pushing the U.S. economy out has slipped rapidly and China is now threatening to take out their number 2 position. India is now set to challenge the Eurozone at a pace more rapid than originally thought. Canadian stocks despite high oil prices are lagging U.S. equities. The Canadian TSX is 15% below the highs of 2011 while the U.S. S&P 500 has surpassed 2011 highs and is approaching all time highs set in 2007. When investing it is important to realize that it is a market of stocks not a single stock market. In order to make money one must focus on how events affect individual positions and measure the risk and reward that is inherent to that issue. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
April_11th_2012.mp3 Taxing Markets Nothing is certain but Death & Taxes! Once again it's tax time, it could be worse, individual tax rates are 48 % higher in Spain, 40% higher in France. Individual Tax Rates 2008-2012 (Click For Larger Picture) Tax obligations and the financial health of Euro-zone countries continue to weigh on Global Markets despite improving economic news. So far this year U.S. equities have risen 8.8% and pulled back half that gain over the last five days. The Dow Jones Industrial Index surpassed 2011 highs and is set to challenge the all time high of 14,198.10. It does not go straight up the recession ended in 2009, current growth is positive. Recent activity is influenced by earnings season which Alcoa kicked off yesterday with excellent results. Many more companies will report with various outcomes these events must be analyzed as to how it affects individual stocks that will benefit from this ever changing economy There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
April_4th_2012.mp3 ADP Employment Report Global money flows are seeking a safe harbor moving into the U.S. Dollar displacing Gold as a store of value. ADP Employment Report (Click For Larger Picture) The U.S Economy is seen as the safer economy in the World with low interest rates an accommodating Central Bank and improving employment levels. Global participants are buying dollars leaving other currencies including gold now off over $300 from recent highs. Global markets are in disarray, uncertainty and fear rules with global 24 hour a day media reports highlighting the debt crisis in the Europe. Friday's Unemployment report will be released on Good Friday when most investors are away with the major stock markets closed causing many to react today in a defensive manner. Dollars when they are recycled back to the U.S. for the most part have to be supplied by foreign central banks from the sale of their holdings of U.S. Treasury Securities. This means interest rates will ultimately rise in the long end. U.S. equity markets could benefit with money supply at an all time high while the rate of turnover of currency is beginning to pick up. Confidence is key to influencing the turnover of a dollar which could move from once a day to historic norms of 3 times a day. Pessimism is currently rampant but the market is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
March_28th_2012.mp3 Credit Crunch O.K. the markets are acting well U.S. stocks are up over 12% so far in 2012; Canadian equities are up 5.4%. The years of uncertainty and fear and constant media reports of negative breaking news are fading. But what the heck happened? U.S. Total Credit Market Debt & Sector Share Breakdown (Click For Larger Picture) Stocks are in recovery mode and despite low volume and near non-existent retail demand U.S. equities are on course to challenge all time highs. But what caused the turmoil over the last 4 years and has it gone away? The U.S. Total Credit Market Debt has built up to 1930's levels and brought our capitalist society to its knees. This shows the total debts as a percentage of GDP. The differences in the debt 's composition from the 1930's to today are striking, with households, not corporates, being the problem credits. Beginning in the 1980's total debt began to expand dramatically until Total Credit Market Debt peaked at 385.7% in 2009. Currently all sectors of Credit Market Debt is $54.1 Trillion while the U.S. GDP is $15.3 Trillion a ratio of 353.3%. The problem has not and will not go away but it is recognized and being dealt with on a global basis and will take years to adjust. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
March_21st_2012.mp3 Times a Changin Interest Rates are starting to rise; Bonds which performed well in 2011 have lost principal value over the last 6 months. 10 Year T-Note (Click For Larger Picture) Ten year U.S. treasuries performed well in 2011 rising 15% in principal value despite falling coupon returns of less than 2%. Recent moves have taken coupon returns to 2.4% in the last 6 months eroding 5% of bond holders principal. Normal 10 year interest rates historically are 7%; if rates normalize capital erosion could be a staggering 33% decline. Bonds are risky at current levels. Seniors and savers would welcome a 7% return but would hurt current 10 year bond investors. Rates will rise, mortgage rates will rise and this may boost home sales as buyers attempt to lock in low rate loans. Many conservative investors could find their savings tied up in bond funds in the wrong place at the wrong time. The U.S. Federal reserve has pledged to keep rates low for the next 2 years; however investors and borrowers should be aware that rising rates could have catastrophic results. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
March_14th_2012.mp3 Improving Data Improving economic indicators increase confidence reversing negative media reports. Jobless claims fall to four year lows. U.S. Jobless Claims (Click For Larger Picture) Over the last decade uncertainty and fear has ruled, media reports have caused the markets to climb a wall of worry. Recent economic data is turning positive; The U.S. unemployment rate is seen holding at a three-year low of 8.3% in February. U.S. weekly jobless claims hitting a four year low. There are signs of improved home sales, retail sales, auto sales. European concerns are off the front page, Iran threats fade, equities surpass recent highs and are set to challenge all time record highs. Yet volumes suggest most have not participated in recent moves. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
March_7th_2012.mp3 Consolidation Three years after hitting a low The Dow Jones Industrial Index has doubled in value. Yesterday Global equities fell. Is it time to panic? Dow Jones Industrial Average (Click For Larger Picture) Three years ago March 6th 2009, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell to 6,469 a week ago we hit 13,055.75 more than double. The advance had corrections along the way 14.6% in the spring of 2010, and 19.2% in the summer of 2011. So far in 2012 stocks advanced 6.9% and with yesterdays decline corrected 2.5%. Markets do not go straight up or straight down but there are days it seems that way. A minor correction is expected after a steep run up but with higher highs and higher lows a challenge of the 2007 all time high of 14,198.10 is expected over the next year a further 11% move. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
February_28th_2012.mp3 Increased Confidence Consumer confidence soared in February to 70.8% from 61.5% the highest level in a year. Nightly news casts are less pessimistic. Equities south of the border have surpassed 2011 highs. United States Consumer Confidence (Click For Larger Picture) Confidence is key, U.S. consumer confidence jumped to 70.8% in February up sharply from levels of low 40's a few months ago. There are many ways to analyze the market; Technical analysis studying various indicators, Chart analysis looking at patterns, Fundamental analysis measuring financial health, Common sense, Contrary opinion, Political analysis and my favorite "Fusion Analysis" a combination of the above. The worst results come from Consensus analysis and one we must guard against. This is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply Fusion studies along with risk/reward ratios to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
February_22nd_2012.mp3 Challenging the Highs Last year the S&P 500 stock index doubled from the lows set in 2009. Fear and bearish forecasts still surrounded equity markets pushing the S&P 500 index down 22% late in 2011. We are now back to the 2011 high and set to challenge all time highs. S&P500 Index (Click For Larger Picture) After doubling the S&P 500 index in 2011 from lows in 2009, the market fell 22% on European woes and Global debt concerns. News media and many market pundits remained negative. Pessimism ran rampant, Oil supply concerns, the U.S. debt ceiling, Chinese accounting, Russian corruption, Obama's future, Mid East theaters of war, political infighting and Bank reforms and Iran. A challenge of the all time high on the S&P 500 (1576.59) would involve a 220.21 point move, a 16.2% advance which is likely to occur as the economic recovery takes hold. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
February_15th_2012.mp3 Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire Interest Rates are historically low but have been lower. Many investors could jump out the frying pan and into the fire. 30 Year US T-Bond Yield (Click For Larger Picture) In early 2009 after losing 57% in stocks many investors ran into 30 year U.S treasuries only to lose 25% in late 2009. Out of the frying pan and into the fire. Historically through thousands of years it has been found the normal rate of interest is 7%. If we move to that level U.S. 30 year Treasuries which currently yield 3.07% will lose 50% of their principal value. In 1981 some will remember the Canadian prime rate reached 23% and reached 2.25% in 2009. Many conservative investors could find their savings tied up in bond funds in the wrong place at the wrong time. The U.S. Federal reserve has pledged to keep rates low for the next 2 years; however investors and borrowers should be aware that rising rates could have catastrophic results. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
February_8th_2012.mp3 Emotional Outburst Market emotion is turning positive. Despite media reports of a bankrupt Greece and rising tensions over Iranian nuclear development and Syrian suppression of another Arab spring. Market Emotion Cycle (Click For Larger Picture) Markets have always moved on emotions, usually FEAR & GREED, but over the last 3 years it has been desperation, panic, despondency, depression, disgust and doubt. It appears we are gaining confidence, with confidence you can reach truly amazing heights; without confidence, even the simplest accomplishments are beyond ones grasp. Stock markets are a leading indicator for the economy and it appears a shift is coming and optimism is slowly building. By the time the media picks up on this shift of attitude it will have moved the market. This is a trading environment and requires active management. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
February_1st_2012.mp3 Clear and Sunny Here comes the sun, the ice is slowly melting, it seems like years since it's been clear, the Beatles forecasted the current thaw of pessimism that has enveloped media and market pundits alike. Growth and profits are occurring south of our border. U.S. GDP Growth Rate (Click For Larger Picture) The panic that set in on the 2008 subprime mortgage meltdown caused stocks to crash down and left investors losing a decade of performance. Fears elevated to panic levels with media and market pundits suggesting a repeat of the great depression. Despite recent media attention and suggestions that we are headed into a recession which would be two quarters of negative GDP growth. The facts do not support that call. The recession ended in 2009 current growth is positive and the recent activity is influenced by businesses posting record earnings. So far in 2012 we have U.S. stocks measured by the S&P 500 index up 5.5% trading today at 1327.18. A challenge of the 2011 high of 1370.58 is expected and an all time high of 1576.09 can not be ruled out later this year. These events must be analyzed as to how it affects individual stocks that will benefit from this ever changing economy with incredible potential. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
January_25th_2012.mp3 Confidence Rising Uncertainty is waning, confidence is increasing and corporate earnings are up. Nightly news casts are less pessimistic. Consumer Confidence (Click For Larger Picture) Money Multiplier (Click For Larger Picture) Confidence is key, U.S. consumer confidence jumped to 64.5 last month up sharply from levels of low 40's a few months ago. Investors are starting to believe markets will achieve higher levels through increased economic activity. Money supply is at an all time high with World Governments spending at record levels to stimulate the economy but the multiplier of money had fallen to post war lows. The turn of a dollar had slowed from three times a day to less than once a day. With increased confidence and trust the velocity of money is increasing creating an improvement in economic activity and forecasts higher equity levels for North American markets. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
January_18th_2012.mp3 Inflation ? / Deflation ? Inflation or Deflation; too many dollars chasing too few goods or too many goods with too few dollars. Consumer Price Index (Click For Larger Picture) Tomorrow the Consumer Price Index will be released for 2011. For those that remember the 80's with the Consumer Prices rising 14%, current levels are likely to show a mild 3.2% indeed there is a near-term risk of flipping to deflation with European concerns and the World Bank reducing its estimate of world GDP growth in 2012 from 3.4% to 2.5%. Over the last decade we have seen Consumer prices as high as 5.6% in July 2008, and as low as -2.1% in July of 2009. Inflation as a concern is relegated to the distant future. Developed economies have not fully healed and consumers are not yet ready to stand on their own two feet, any meaningful inflation is still a couple of years away. Perhaps it is time to reassess ones exposure to Golds and Oils that are so prevalent in Canadian Stocks and over exposed in Canadian Mutual Funds, With the Canadian dollar near par to the U.S. perhaps it is time to increase ones exposure to U.S. equities. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
December_21st_2011.mp3 Global Market Results As we approach the end of 2011 annual performance is in focus. It is difficult enough to track our own equity markets day to day but Global markets and events are important in this millisecond decision making World. Global Market Results (Click For Larger Picture) Global events and market fluctuations affect domestic and international markets instantaneously. Global equity markets have mixed returns shifting rapidly day to day minute to minute. At this point in time India's Sensex Index is the weakest in 2011 off 23.52%. The strongest global equity player is the U.S. Dow Jones Index with an advance of 4.54% so far this year. Other U.S. equity markets are off slightly with senior stocks outpacing junior cap and intermediate issues. In Currencies the Canadian Dollar was even weaker than the Euro off 2.87% vs. the Euro down 2.56%. Gold is leading global commodity markets up 12.69% so far this year, while Wheat prices fell sharply off 29.67%. When investing in equities it is important to realize that it is a market of stocks not a stock market. Indices like Mutual Funds almost seem to be designed to provide flat washed out returns. This is a trading environment and requires active management. It is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part each position selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1, make the call and discuss the positions that would make sense for your portfolio. Timing is everything when investing please call to discuss the risk/reward ratio attached to any given investment. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
December_14th_2011.mp3 King Dollar The U.S Dollar is the strongest currency in the World as global markets buy dollars leaving other currencies including gold now off $328 from recent highs. U.S. Dollar Index (Click For Larger Picture) The tide has changed the U.S. dollar is up over 10% from lows set this year. With all the commotion in the world the U.S. is the safe harbor as the Euro breaks down falling 13% so far in 2011.Global markets are in disarray, uncertainty and fear rules with global 24 hour a day media reports highlighting the debt crisis in the Eurozone. Strength in the U.S. Dollar adds muscle to the private sector financial markets and drains resources from the public sector, because dollars when they are recycled back to the U.S. for the most part have to be supplied by foreign central banks from the sale of their holdings of U.S. Treasury Securities. This means interest rates will rise in 2012 and U.S. equity markets will benefit with money supply at an all time high while the rate of turnover of currency has slowed to a third of normal activity. What can occur with the multiplier of money which is the turnover of a dollar is an explosion of economic activity as the rate of turn for a dollar moves from once a day to historic norms of 3 times a day. The Worlds main currency is the U.S. Dollar. Once confidence and trust improves a shockingly quick series of events will take place improving the economy and attitudes. Pessimism is currently rampant but the market is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments, There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
December_7th_2011.mp3 Opportunities Abound Global economic forecasts are in disarray, 500 point moves on U.S. equity markets have become common place, yet we are up on the year 2011 with the Dow Jones average of 12,112.98 up 535.47 points from last years close of 11,577.51 a 4.6% advance. Eurozone Lack of leadership is a World wide phenomenon from Eurozone nations to the United States with political turmoil expected over the next year while 2012 elections stagnate any coordinated solution. Market pundits and Media moguls mouth dire forecasts of the future. Pessimism is at a peak gloom and doom is prevalent in every media report. Yet stocks are up. As the Beatles concluded "got to admit its getting better a little bit better all the time." There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
November_30th_2011.mp3 Global Shifting Tides It is difficult enough to track our own finances day to day but Global markets and events are incredibly important in this millisecond decision making World. World GDP (Click For Larger Picture) Global events and market fluctuations affect domestic markets instantaneously. Global markets shift rapidly day to day minute to minute but most dramatically year over year. Over the last 4 years we have seen Japan slip from a top 3 global economic force only to be replaced by China. The once mighty Eurozone which was a contender for the number 1 spot pushing the U.S. economy out has slipped rapidly and China is now threatening to take out the number 2 position. The most interesting shifts expected is the rapid advance of China which is predicted to overtake to U.S. as number 1. India is expected to surpass the Eurozone which may occur more rapidly than originally thought. The fastest advancement is expected to be Brazil from a non event to 5th place in global economic strength. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
November_23rd_2011.mp3 Positive GDP Growth U.S. markets have little to be thankful for going into U.S. Thanksgiving weekend. Global concerns on sovereign debt ratios have ballooned into crisis proportions with the help of international media attention. U.S. GDP Growth Rate (Click For Larger Picture) Greed and fear rule when investing. The 1929 crash caused fears to elevate to panic levels bring on the great depression. Greed grew in the "nifty 50's as stocks rose 400% in a decade. In the early 1980's fear soared as interest rates rose to 23%. Stocks again soared 400% in the 1990's. Greed again enveloped participants as the dot com stocks overtook rational thought processes giving way to fear and panic when common sense returned retracing a third of the last decades gains. Panic set in on the 2008 subprime mortgage meltdown leaving stocks at low levels and investors losing a decade of performance. Current events are reported in a millisecond all over the world from European concerns to Egyptian riots and political impasse. Despite current media attention and suggestions we are already in a recession which would be two quarters of negative GDP growth. The recession ended in 2009 current growth is positive and the recent activity although slow is influenced by businesses aggressively slashing stocks of unsold goods to cope with weak domestic demand, weighing down sharply on GDP results in the past. These events along with reasonable reported earning reflect future growth and must be analyzed as to how it affects individual stocks that will benefit from this ever changing economy with incredible potential. It is paramount that investments are considered and evaluated for upside potential reward measured against potential downside risk There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
November_16th_2011.mp3 Traction - On a Slippery Slope Crude oil is above $100 a barrel up 36% in 5 weeks while Global economic forecasts are in disarray. Crude Oil (Click For Larger Picture) Fiddling while Rome burns! European economies are in disarray causing concern globally and dire forecasts of the future. But why would crude oil rise if we are heading into a World wide slowdown? Perhaps we are seeing a paradigm shift that few foresee. After pumping liquidity into international economies do we have a spark that has ignited oil? Gold has toped out at $1923.70 and is down 10% while the European crisis spreads. The S&P 500 index is up 17% from this years low. Pessimism is at a peak gloom and doom is prevalent in every media report. Little is expected from the massive U.S. market with political turmoil expected over the next year while 2012 elections stagnant any coordinated solution. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
November_9th_2011.mp3 Citi Limits It goes up goes up! It goes down goes down. Time to ground your thoughts with risk/reward tools. Citigroup Inc (Click For Larger Picture) Media and market participants often get caught up in the mood of the moment and excite emotions to a fever pitch. Markets feed on these emotions and take things to incredible levels, both up and down. Media sensationalizes the movement by finding reinforcing reasons for even more unbelievable levels. Infomercials bolster the fever and what goes up goes up goes up. Pessimism also spreads like wildfire as negative news brings more negative news and panic and fear set in. Does it ever end? Newton's law of gravity will come into play "What goes up must come down; for every action there is equal and opposite reaction." One must learn to think outside of the box and step off a trend before it ends. Parabolic moves are a tell tale sign that warns us to be nimble and assess our current positions. Now is the time to carefully choose investments based on their merit and not by recent popularity or panic? Using various tools one can apply risk /reward studies, to compare the expected returns of an investment to the amount of risk undertaken to capture these returns. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
October_26th_2011.mp3 World Equity Performance - 2011 Global Markets have had a rough year, with major shifts occurring on a daily basis in every investment vehicle from Gold to Government Bonds to Stocks all around the World. World Indexes Performance - 2011 (Click For Larger Picture) Markets around the world are linked together by instantaneous media reports like they have never been before. They started 2011 in lock step moving up 7% in the first 2 months but by March started a correction that took emerging markets down sharply. By May of this year a U.S. equity lead correction set the highs of 2011 only to stumble in June and July and get hammered down in August and September. It appears the lows were in at the end of September and this month of October saw the U.S. equity index come back to flat for the year. The out performance of U.S. Stocks has been impressive given the dire political situation of wrangling among Democrats and Republicans preparing for the Presidential elections in November 2012. A bottom has been put in place and despite the continuing European crisis. Globalization is upon us with what happens half way around the globe is reported immediately and reflected in equity and bond market prices with virtually no delay. The problem is the global attitude influenced by events turns with every movement. The international investor attitudes changes in sync with yesterday's news reports. The World of investments has become 24/7 with no down time to reflect on issues before human emotion has reacted. Now is the time to carefully choose individual stocks based on their merit. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
October_19th_2011.mp3 Turning Point: Rates on the Rise While the media watches Greece burn and U.S. elections over a year away, stocks are bottoming out. 10 Year U.S. Government Note Yield (Click For Larger Picture) Despite Greek riots, "Occupy Wall Street" hurricanes, tornados, and floods, the downgrade of U.S. debt off it's AAA status , along with the political fallout of the messy U.S. debt ceiling debate which adds to recent distraught worries of unemployment, European unity, Mid East unrest and revolution, Oil supply uncertainty, the housing crisis, mortgage foreclosures, bank failures, too big to fail bailouts, Japanese slowdown due to earthquakes and tsunamis and nuclear meltdowns, Chinese accounting, Russian corruption and now ridiculous political wrangling as Democrats and Republicans prepare for Presidential elections in November 2012. See the chart of the U.S. Government 10 year note yield which was as low as 1.696% last month currently 2.176% with money flows moving toward equities the 10 year note yield could reach 2.847% which would be a significant 115 basis point jump in interest rates. This is occurring in an environment where the U.S. Federal Reserve has vowed to keep short term rates low. This is a trading environment and requires active management. It is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
October_12th_2011.mp3 Shipping in Confidence Confidence? It is hard to muster confidence in the economy when the fate of the World is in the hands of the Slovakian parliament. But facts are building for an upward turn in Global Equities despite the disarray reported by the media. Baltic Dry Shipping Index - Ten Year (Click For Larger Picture) Baltic Dry Shipping Index - Six Month (Click For Larger Picture) With 24 hour round the clock media reports highlighting European bailout woes for Greece with 16 of 17 countries voting and only the Slovakian parliament voting no. Along with daily accounts of the diverse polar split in the U.S. political arena, unlikely to let up before the November 2012 Presidential elections. The public is becoming very concerned over the financial situation globally with protesters in the streets. Worries soar that the U.S. economy is in a much worse condition than stated. Many feel credit will be too restrictive to support economic growth. Near panic emotions for some followers and market pundits are sensationalized by media coverage. With all the commotion in the world the U.S. is still the safe harbor, the Worlds main currency is still the U.S. Dollar. One of the key indicators in Global trade is the Baltic Exchange's main sea freight index, which tracks rates to ship dry commodities, it rose to its highest level in ten months yesterday helped by firm iron ore and coal cargo interest from China, with further near-term gains contracted. The 10 year and 6 month chart of the Baltic Dry Shipping Index shows the explosive recent upward movement which has potential to move up rapidly adding confidence in Global trade. Once confidence and trust improves a shockingly quick series of events will take place improving the economy and attitudes. Pessimism is currently rampant but the market is a trading environment and requires active management it is paramount to think outside the box and apply risk/reward analysis to your investments. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
September_28th_2011.mp3 Fact or Fiction? Fact or Fiction. Is the glass half empty or half full? I will be back after these messages with a discussion. Durable Goods Orders (Click For Larger Picture) Media and market pundits have been finding every negative story to sensationalize events even if they have to go around the globe to find them. A cascading wall of worry lead by the distraught concerns of European unity, a bankrupt Greece along with unemployment, the housing crisis, mortgage foreclosures, bank failures, too big to fail bailouts U.S. debt off it's AAA status, along with the political fallout from ridiculous political wrangling as Democrats and Republicans prepare for Presidential elections in 2012 along with Chinese accounting practices, Russian corruption and the inevitable economic recession even though we have not had even one quarter of negative growth let alone the two negative quarters needed to have a recession. Durable Good Orders now running at a 12.3% year over year pace, showing real Economic strength not recessionary weakness. We should be aware the glass is often half full not half empty. It is yet another flag in the overall markets that warns us to be nimble and assess our current positions. Now is the time to carefully choose individual stocks based on their merit. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.
September_21st_2011.mp3 Growth? Media reports on current popular themes of events and often carries views to extremes overstating the negatives and positives and fails to recognize when a change occurs until well after the fact. Indeed if it's up it's going up and if it's down it's going to fall further. A dangerous assumption when investing. U.S. GDP (Click For Larger Picture) Greed and fear rule when investing and current events are reported in a millisecond all over the world. When investing it is important to realize we have a market of stocks not a stock market. Most mutual funds and exchange traded funds attempt to diversify and aim to match a stock market index rather than dissect the actual growth patterns evident in today's economy. Stock indexes over the last decade have gone nowhere, buy and hold strategies have not worked and most mutual funds have shown negative results as management fees and trailer fees compounded the losses. Media reports have suggested we are already in a recession which would be two quarters of negative GDP growth. The recession ended in 2009 current growth is positive and the recent activity although slow is influenced by businesses aggressively slashing stocks of unsold goods to cope with weak domestic demand, weighing down sharply on GDP results in the past. These events along with reasonable reported earning reflect future growth and must be analyzed as to how it affects individual stocks that will benefit from this ever changing economy with incredible potential. There are many opportunities to make money but it requires action on your part, each stock selected must show risk/reward of at least 2:1. Make the call - let me provide you with a unique perspective on your investments through a no-obligation consultation. Contact me by filling out the 'Unique Perspective' form on the Contact page, or by calling at 1-204-982-0633. Before trading, please contact an investment professional.