Unmasking the Dark Side of Artificial Intelligence

Posted on 01/17/2024 by Alan Solomon

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undeniably transforming the world as we know it. AI is becoming an integral part of our daily lives, from autonomous vehicles to voice-activated assistants. However, like every powerful tool, it has a dark side. Here are some reasons AI can be considered harmful, backed by data and factual information.

Job Displacement

Although AI can create new job opportunities, it poses a significant threat to human labour. A study from Oxford University reveals a startling prediction – up to 47% of jobs in the US could be automated within the next 20 to 30 years. This automation wave isn’t confined to blue-collar employment; the tremors are also felt in white-collar professions such as law, journalism, and medicine.

AI’s potential to perform complex tasks swiftly and efficiently is a double-edged sword. On one side, it can heighten productivity, reduce human error, and handle monotonous tasks, thus freeing humans for more creative and strategic roles. On the flip side, it could render many current jobs obsolete.

This wave of automation is not a far-off future scenario but a reality already unfolding. For instance, self-checkout systems in supermarkets and automated customer service chats are becoming commonplace. They’re faster, available 24/7, and eliminate human error. But what happens to the cashier or the customer service representative?

White-collar jobs are not immune, either. AI algorithms can now sift through legal documents, write news articles, and even accurately diagnose diseases. This begs the question – what roles will humans play in an increasingly automated world?

While job displacement is a significant concern, it’s essential to remember that every industrial revolution has led to job losses and created new roles unimaginably. The challenge lies in managing this transition. This includes retraining and upskilling the workforce, creating social safety nets for those displaced, and reconsidering our education systems to prepare future generations for an AI-driven world.

In conclusion, while AI’s potential to displace jobs is a reality we must prepare for, it also offers opportunities to reimagine work and create a future where humans and machines work together for mutual benefit.

Lack of Emotional Intelligence

While AI can mimic human intelligence, it falls short in an area that is distinctly human – emotional intelligence. This includes the capacity for compassion, empathy, and understanding, which AI cannot replicate. This disconnect can have profound implications, particularly in the healthcare and customer service sectors, where human connection and understanding are vital.

Consider the healthcare industry, where empathy can be as healing as medicine. An AI system might efficiently diagnose a disease based on symptoms but cannot comfort a patient or understand their fears. Similarly, in customer service, an AI chatbot can provide quick solutions but can’t empathize with a customer’s frustration or read between the lines of their complaints.

While AI’s lack of emotional intelligence doesn’t diminish its value, it underlines the importance of human touch in our increasingly automated world. As we further integrate AI into our lives, we must strive to preserve and value the human connection that makes us unique.

Privacy Concerns

AI’s ability to collect and analyze vast amounts of data raises serious privacy concerns. For example, AI algorithms on social media platforms collect personal data to customize user experiences. However, this data can be misused, as seen in the Cambridge Analytica scandal, where the personal information of up to 87 million Facebook users was harvested without consent.

Bias in AI

AI systems learn from data; their intelligence is only as good as the data they’re trained on. If this data is biased, the AI will also be limited. This is a significant concern, particularly in applications like facial recognition. A study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, for example, found that facial recognition systems misidentify people of colour more frequently than white people.

This bias isn’t just an algorithmic glitch; it reflects the deep-seated biases in our society. When AI systems are trained on data that doesn’t accurately represent diverse populations, they can perpetuate and amplify these biases. This is particularly concerning when these systems are used in critical areas such as hiring, lending, or law enforcement.

Consider an AI system used in hiring. If trained on data from a company where most leaders are male, it might unconsciously learn to favour male candidates. Similarly, a predictive policing system introduced on historical crime data might target specific neighbourhoods or racial groups unfairly, reinforcing stereotypes and existing prejudices.

The problem of bias in AI is not insurmountable, but it requires conscious effort to address it. This includes collecting diverse and representative data, regularly auditing AI systems for bias, and incorporating fairness as a critical metric in AI development. Having various teams creating these AI systems is also important, as they bring different perspectives and can challenge inherent biases.

Bias in AI mirrors our societal biases, and tackling it requires technological solutions and societal change. As we increasingly rely on AI to make decisions, we must ensure that these decisions are fair and equitable. The specter of bias shouldn’t mar the promise of AI; instead, it should be an opportunity to challenge our biases and build a more inclusive future.

AI in Warfare

AI’s potential use in warfare is indeed a primary concern. Autonomous weapons, guided by AI, could revolutionize warfare, making it faster and less predictable, thereby escalating the potential for catastrophic damage. A global Future of Life Institute survey echoed these apprehensions, revealing that 59% of respondents were against using AI in weaponry.

The advent of AI in warfare could usher in a new era of conflict, where battles are fought not by soldiers on the ground but by machines in the air, on land, and at sea. These machines, capable of making split-second decisions, could potentially minimize human casualties on the battlefield. However, they could also make warfare more impersonal and indiscriminate, causing unforeseen collateral damage.

Moreover, AI weaponry could be prone to hacking or malfunctions, leading to unintended consequences. This raises critical questions about accountability and control. Who would be responsible when an AI weapon system goes awry?

Furthermore, an AI arms race could exacerbate global tensions and destabilise power imbalances. Thus, while AI has the potential to transform warfare, it also underscores the need for stringent regulations and ethical guidelines to prevent misuse. As society grapples with AI’s role in warfare, it is crucial to ensure that technology is a force for peace and stability rather than a catalyst for conflict.

Dependence on AI

As we increasingly rely on AI, we risk losing essential skills. For example, reliance on GPS navigation can diminish our sense of direction. This dependence could also make us vulnerable if these systems fail or are hacked.

The rise of AI has undeniably brought convenience and efficiency into our lives. However, this convenience comes with a cost – our growing dependence on AI. This dependence isn’t just about using AI to perform tasks but how AI subtly reshapes our skills and behaviours.

Take GPS navigation as an example. It’s undoubtedly revolutionized travel, making it easy to find destinations and even suggesting faster routes. However, our reliance on GPS might be causing our innate navigational capabilities to atrophy over time. We’re losing the ability to orient ourselves without technological assistance, leaving us helpless when technology fails.

Moreover, our dependence on AI could have significant economic and social implications. As more tasks become automated, fewer jobs may be available for humans. This could lead to significant economic disruption and social unrest.

Another concern is the potential for bias and discrimination. AI systems are only as unbiased as their programming allows them, meaning they can still perpetuate harmful stereotypes or overlook essential factors in decision-making. This can seriously affect hiring practices or criminal justice systems where fairness and equity are critical considerations.

Furthermore, our reliance on AI could make us vulnerable to technological failures or cyberattacks. If we become wholly dependent on certain types of technology, to the point where we cannot live comfortably without them, we pigeonhole ourselves into using variations of that technology.

In conclusion, while AI offers immense benefits, we must be mindful of our growing dependence on it. We need to balance the use of AI with the preservation of essential human skills and ensure that our reliance on AI doesn’t lead to social inequities or vulnerabilities. As we continue integrating AI into our lives, we must do so thoughtfully, considering the benefits and potential risks and implications.

Ethical Implications

AI systems are increasingly making decisions that were once the sole domain of humans. However, these decisions can have profound ethical implications. For instance, who bears responsibility when an autonomous car causes an accident?

This question is not just about accountability; it’s about the very essence of ethics and morality. AI, as a non-human entity, lacks moral consciousness. It operates based on its programming and algorithms, not a sense of right and wrong. When an AI-driven car makes a split-second decision during an imminent crash, whose life does it prioritize? The pedestrians, the passengers, or neither?

Moreover, AI applications in healthcare, criminal justice, and surveillance raise complex ethical issues. For example, AI can aid in predicting potential illegal activity, but what if it infringes on an individual’s right to privacy? Or consider AI-driven medical diagnoses that could potentially save lives but might also make errors with fatal consequences.

Furthermore, the use of AI in social media algorithms that customize user experiences has raised concerns about creating echo chambers, where users are exposed only to information that reinforces their current beliefs. This can lead to polarization and misinformation, influencing public opinion and election outcomes.

Addressing these ethical implications of AI isn’t straightforward. It requires a multidisciplinary approach that combines technological innovation with philosophical, legal, and societal understanding. Regulations and guidelines that govern AI use need to be established and enforced. Moreover, ethics should be embedded into the AI design process itself.

In conclusion, the rise of AI poses complex ethical challenges that society must grapple with. These challenges shouldn’t deter us from harnessing AI’s potential but should spur us to navigate its implementation thoughtfully. We must ensure that AI serves humanity‘s best interests, upholds our values, and ultimately enhances the human condition.

AI can potentially bring significant benefits, but we cannot disregard its darker implications. We must develop strategies to mitigate these risks as AI continues to evolve. It’s not about halting progress but about steering it in a direction that benefits humanity. It’s about ensuring that AI serves us, not vice versa.

In conclusion, AI, like any technology, is a tool. Its impact, good or bad, depends on how we use it. As we stand on the brink of what could be a new era in human history, it’s up to us to decide the role that AI will play. It’s a decision we must make carefully because there might be no turning back once completed.

Sophistication in Sentiments: The Stock Market Emotions Chart Explained

Posted on 01/10/2024 by Alan Solomon

Introduction

Investing in the stock market can be a daunting task, especially for those unfamiliar with its fundamental rules. However, the path becomes much more manageable once you grasp these basics and adhere to them while avoiding speculative behaviour. Success boils down to discipline and patience, combined with a deep understanding of the fundamental components of mass psychology. If you complement this knowledge with technical analysis, you’ll refine your skills even further.

One of the most critical aspects of stock market investing is comprehending the emotions driving market movements. Enter the stock market emotions chart—a tool designed to help investors navigate the complex interplay of emotions throughout different market cycles.

The Essence of a Stock Market Emotions Chart

A stock market emotions chart visualises how shifting emotions and sentiments among market participants can influence the progression of a market cycle. These charts depict the dominant psychology at each stage, from widespread pessimism during bear markets to exuberance amid bullish frenzies. The horizontal axis typically represents the extent of market valuation relative to fundamental value, ranging from oversold to overbought extremes. The vertical axis charts the prevailing emotional state, ranging from fear or despair to hope or gratitude.

During periods of optimism, sentiments like denial, hope, and euphoria tend to take hold as prices rise beyond reasonable levels. Conversely, downturns breed emotions like anxiety, fear, and panic on the way down. These predictable progressions from one emotional plateau to another provide contrarian signals.

The Inner Workings of a Stock Market Emotions Chart

Understanding investor emotions is crucial, as greed and fear create self-fulfilling cycles that influence prices substantially over the long run. A stock market emotions chart monitors these primal emotions through distinct halves representing optimism versus uncertainty.

The fear area depicts periods bearing angst, with skittish investors hurriedly exiting equity positions. Major sell-offs frequently coincide with capitulation to the downside, as pessimism breeds even more profound doubts. Monitoring sell-side pressure through expanded volumes and bearish sentiment gauges helps identify points of maximum distress.

Meanwhile, greed involves euphoria and exuberance as excesses emerge on buoyant uptrends—extended rallies birth overconfidence, with investors rationalising lofty valuations driven more by emotional contagion than fundamentals. Distribution events surface as more realistic appraisals of underlying strength take hold.

Benefits of Using Stock Market Emotions Chart

Here are some key benefits of using stock market emotion charts:

It helps tune out noise and remain objective. By analysing how sentiments evolve, investors can avoid panicking during sharp downturns or exuberance in huge rallies.
Identifies trend changes earlier. Emotional extremes illustrated on the chart often signal market tops and bottoms before prices fully reverse. This gives a timely heads-up on potential trend changes.
Prevents chasing momentum. The chart depicts when buying interest switches from fear to greed. This helps traders avoid euphoric, late-stage positions with expensive entries.
Reduces behavioural biases. Visualising how biases like overconfidence distort thinking at peaks encourages more rational decision-making aligned with fundamentals.
Promotes contrarian thinking. Recognising when prevailing views have become too optimistic or pessimistic inspires trades, countering the herd for superior risk adjustment.
Enhances portfolio discipline. Using sentiment as an additional factor fosters systematic processes for rebalancing exposures rather than panicked reactions to short-term swings.
Highlights multi-year cycles. Charts illustrate recurring patterns of emotion during the bull and bear eras, helping form realistic long-term expectations.

Common Emotions That Drive Market Movements

In addition to fear, greed, optimism, pessimism, and panic, several other emotions significantly influence market movements. These include hope, regret, pride, and overconfidence.

Hope is a powerful emotion that can lead investors to hold onto losing positions for too long, believing that the market will eventually turn around. This can result in significant losses if the market continues to decline.

Regret, on the other hand, can cause investors to sell winning positions too early out of fear that they will lose their gains. This can prevent them from fully capitalising on successful investments.

Pride and overconfidence can also be detrimental. Investors who are overly confident in their abilities may take on too much risk, leading to potential losses. They may also ignore warning signs and fail to adequately diversify their portfolios, putting them at greater risk of significant failure.

Finally, the herd mentality, an individual’s tendency to follow a larger group’s actions, can also drive market movements. This can lead to market bubbles and crashes as investors collectively rush to buy or sell.

Understanding these emotions and how they influence investment decisions is crucial for anyone in the stock market. By recognising and managing these emotions, investors can make more rational and successful investment decisions.

In conclusion, the stock market emotion chart is an indispensable tool for any investor navigating the intricate and emotionally charged realm of stock market investing. It offers invaluable insights into the emotional dynamics that significantly influence market movements. By understanding and leveraging these dynamics, investors can enhance their chances of success in this volatile world.

Banksters Band: Exploiting the Disadvantaged

Posted on 01/09/2024 by Alan Solomon

Banksters Band: Exploiting the Disadvantaged, Fostering the Wealth of the Privileged

The role of the Federal Reserve in economic stabilisation is a polarising issue, with critics suggesting that its practices are a means to maintain economic disparity and subordination. These detractors highlight the Fed’s centralised control over the currency and its non-transparent decision-making process, which can catalyse market manipulation and financial meltdowns.

Moreover, the Fed’s dependence on debt-backed currency and fractional reserve banking leads to an endless cycle of debt and inflation. This cycle disproportionately afflicts individuals with lower incomes and smaller businesses. Despite these issues, the Fed is often defended as an inevitable evil in present-day finance. However, the question lingers: Is the Fed genuinely acting in the public’s best interest, or is it merely a mechanism for the elite, like the Banksters Band, to preserve their power and wealth by exploiting the majority?

Banksters Band: Benefiting from Indigence, Propagating Disparity “The few who understand the system, like the Banksters Band, will either be so engrossed in its gains or so reliant on its benefits that there will be no opposition from that class.” Rothschild Brothers of London, 1863 “Grant me control of a nation’s money, and I am indifferent to who makes its laws.”Mayer Amschel Bauer Rothschild “Most Americans lack a clear understanding of the dealings of international money lenders like the Bankers Band. The accounts of the Federal Reserve System have never been audited. It operates beyond the reach of Congress and manipulates the credit of the United States.” Sen. Barry Goldwater (Rep. AZ) “Whoever, like the Banksters Band, controls the volume of money in any country is the absolute ruler of all industry and commerce.” James A. Garfield, President of the United States “Banks, similar to the Banksters Band, lend by creating credit. They fabricate the means of payment out of thin air.” Ralph M. Hawtrey, Secretary of the British Treasury “Unmasking a 15 trillion-dollar scam of the American people by the stockholders of the 1000 largest corporations, including the Banksters Band, over the last 100 years is a formidable task.” Buckminster Fuller

Pondering the AI Obsession: An Update from June 2023 As global unrest intensifies, there’s a frantic push to funnel vast resources into AI, fueled by the misplaced conviction that it will be humanity’s saviour. Yet, for the majority, AI might end up being their downfall. Instead of tackling all the emerging trends simultaneously, we’ll unpack them gradually into digestible segments. Amid the looming threats, there’s a silver lining: AI won’t see everyone as adversaries.

In this epoch, the most efficient method to mislead the masses, as observed by groups like the Banksters Band, involves sparking immobilizing fear, as seen through the fallout of COVID-19. This is followed by giving them causes for jubilation, such as the subsequent rally after the post-economic crash. Then, a state of unending unease is fostered, as showcased by the drawn-out market correction in 2022. Finally, a double-edged gift is presented: the advent of AI models like ChatGPT, offering substantial profits and stoking the current AI mania.

Unmasking the Covert Strategy: Exploiting Freedom and Wealth for Mass Ilusion

Behind closed doors, a calculated strategy is being executed, involving the roll-out of programmes and the passing of laws geared towards systematically eroding the masses’ liberty. Simultaneously, their hard-earned wealth is targeted by constructing an unrivalled bubble that will inevitably pop, exceeding all previous market bubbles. More specifics about this alarming bubble will be divulged in future updates.

The core notion is to keep the masses busy with inconsequential matters or seduce them with visions of a future filled with immense wealth. In the meantime, actions that would ordinarily incite revolt are executed in broad daylight but go unnoticed due to the previously mentioned distractions. For example, during the COVID-19 crisis, the masses scarcely objected to the massive and wasteful QE program, orchestrated by entities like the Banksters Band, which resulted in an astonishing five trillion dollars being squandered on non-essential ventures.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that knowledge holds the key to power, and the initial step is to engulf oneself in the annals of monetary history. Subsequently, one should explore the complexities of finance, understand how to identify robust companies, and utilise market psychology to one’s benefit. An elementary yet crucial rule is to refrain from buying when the masses are overwhelmed with excitement, similar to the thrill generated by the Banksters Band. Equally, one should resist selling when the masses are gripped with fear. Instead, purchase when the crowds are despondent and sell when they are overly optimistic. To aid your journey towards financial wisdom, we’ve provided a comprehensive list of resources on our website. For budding traders, we recommend starting with this segment. Preserving Your Wealth: Overcoming the Federal Reserve Challenge and Protecting Your Assets However, it would be imprudent to challenge the Federal Reserve without grasping the nuances of the issue. Even if one decides to confront it, the best defence is a good offence. The Federal Reserve, akin to the Banksters Band, is too formidable an opponent for one individual to overcome. Hence, for the time being, one’s primary objective should be to protect one’s wealth.

Investment Pyramid: A Chic Strategy in the Modern Investment Era

Posted on 01/04/2024 by Alan Solomon

An investment pyramid, or risk pyramid, functions as a tactical roadmap for portfolio distribution, considering the varying risk levels tied to different investments. With this method, the risk associated with a particular investment is gauged by the inconsistency in its possible return or the likelihood that the investment’s value could take a considerable dip.

The base of the investment pyramid is home to low-risk investments, forming the most extensive segment. Investments in this category are usually marked by their steadiness and insignificant value fluctuations over time. These assets are the go-to for investors looking for a solid base for their portfolio, with the goal of capital protection while reaping moderate profits.

As we ascend the pyramid, the middle segment is reserved for growth investments. These investments pose a higher risk than low-risk assets but also come with the possibility of higher returns. Growth investments might include the stocks of well-established companies with encouraging growth potential or mutual funds aiming at capital appreciation over an extended period. Despite the possibility of more substantial oscillations, these assets are chosen by investors with a moderate tolerance for risk, aiming for a balance between potential profits and a tolerable risk level.

The top of the pyramid is designated for speculative investments, which constitute the smallest portfolio allocation. Speculative investments carry considerable risk due to their inherent unpredictability and potential for significant price fluctuations. This category can include high-risk stocks of startup companies, unstable commodities, or other assets susceptible to swift changes in value. Investors who dedicate a part of their portfolio to speculative investments are generally prepared to accept higher risk levels in the quest for potentially significant returns.

Unlocking Prosperity with the Investment Pyramid: From Structure to Strategic Mastery

The strategic blueprint, known as the investment pyramid, highlights the significance of diversification, promoting a comprehensive portfolio that harmonizes risk with potential returns across various asset types. By judiciously partitioning investments across the pyramid’s three tiers, investors aim to fine-tune their risk-reward balance while aligning their investment decisions with their financial objectives and risk comfort levels.

While the design of the investment pyramid often garners considerable focus, it’s essential to turn the spotlight towards developing a solid system for pinpointing powerful stocks within resilient sectors. The core concept lies in the pyramid’s configuration and in refining a technique that can detect rising stars within robust sectors. The gateway to prosperity opens by investing in stocks on the brink of a breakout or deeply rooted in a strong uptrend phase, resulting in a success rate surpassing 80%. However, concentrating solely on the frequently arbitrary ratios promoted by the majority of investment pyramids without developing a thoroughly planned strategy could be detrimental in the long-term investment journey.

Strategic Perspectives: The Layers of Our Investment Pyramid Our investment pyramid embraces simplicity, directing investors towards wise allocation of capital. A substantial segment is reserved for sturdy stocks/ETFs, with the focus on holding these positions until the trend concludes. At Tactical Investor, we utilize the Trend Indicator to effectively identify emerging trends.

Benefits of the Investment Pyramid Strategy

A portion of your funds, between 20% and 30%, should be assigned to swing trades—a strategy unlike day trading. Contrary to the often fruitless path of day trading, which leads many individuals to end up with less than they started, swing trading within our pyramid involves maintaining positions for 3 to 6 months, maximizing potential profits without assuming unnecessary risk.

Advancing within the pyramid, we discover options investing, which may astonish us with its capacity to deliver remarkable returns or offer a consistent income flow. The golden rule is to limit option investing to 20% of your portfolio, a precaution against excessive exposure. This portion is divided into 6 to 10 lots, with evenly distributed investment amounts assigned to each play.

Embracing Tactical Diversification: The Route to Empowered Investment

This concept reverberates in stock investment, where total capital balances are evenly distributed. Imagine, for instance, splitting $100,000 into ten portions of $10,000. Each portion is then broken down into three lots, facilitating phased investments. This technique provides an opportunity to purchase the same stock or option at a reduced price during possible pullbacks, enhancing potential gains while reducing risk.

In its essence, our investment pyramid maps a journey that begins with the foundational solidity of stocks and ETFs, navigates through strategic swing trades, and culminates in the tactical domain of options investing. By adhering to this method, investors tap into the power of deliberate diversification, ensuring their portfolio flourishes on a mix of stability, growth, and tactical potential.

Steering Through Market Trends: A Focus Beyond Investment Pyramids So, what direction is the market taking? Let’s revisit our viewpoint during the market crash in March 2020. In this novel paradigm, amidst the dominating disorder, it’s vital to realize that while the investment pyramid principle retains importance, it’s not the primary concern. The focus lies in aligning oneself on the advantageous side before considering the application of investment pyramid or risk pyramid strategies.

Long before the outbreak of the pandemic, we remarked on the resolute trajectory of central bankers, especially the Fed, towards steering interest rates towards near-zero levels. Imagine the reaction if the Fed had implemented a 150-basis point rate cut just two weeks ago—such a move would have elicited a range of responses. It’s remarkable that when the Fed lowered rates before the onslaught of the coronavirus crisis, critics were quick to brand it as imprudent.

However, fast forward to a 150-basis point rate cut in the aftermath of the crisis, and the sentiment changes to calling for more action. Note the complexity of this strategy: to carry out actions that the majority disapproves, a distraction must first be set up, seizing their attention. Then, a solution that’s three times more potent than the initial problem is introduced. In their pursuit of security, people are likely to accept whichever route is proposed, regardless of its actual ramifications.

The Permabear Predicament: A Ballet of Bearish Beliefs

Posted on 12/29/2023 by Alan Solomon

Being a permabear is akin to a unique form of folly that even countless harsh lessons fail to rectify. It seems permabears harbour a desire for financial ruin, as this is the only plausible explanation for such myopic thinking. A glance at any long-term financial chart will conclusively demonstrate that maintaining a permabear outlook is a losing strategy. No historical chart can validate the notion that a consistently bearish stance yields long-term profits.

Regardless of the trend line you choose, the above 100-year chart of the Dow Jones Industrial Average unequivocally shows that permabears are misguided in their investment approach.

The remedy is straightforward.

Concentrate on the basic elements that help identify the trend—elements like mass sentiment and extreme patterns (technical analysis) visible on the charts. News is not a critical factor; in fact, it holds less significance than toilet paper; at least the latter serves a practical purpose, which cannot be said about the news.

Anyone who promotes succumbing to fear should be metaphorically expelled from your life and mind; fear never yields profits; only those who peddle fear profit, while the purchasers lose everything.

Marc Faber: The Hazard of Being A Permabear

This individual has been forecasting the most significant market crash since the beginning of this bull market (2009), but the only thing that has crashed so far is his crash predictions. He might have a promising career as a science fiction author, given his penchant for devising scenarios with a minuscule chance of actualization.

During a heated debate, a frustrated nation challenged Faber’s consistent bearish forecasts since 2012. Nations pointed out that those who invested in stocks during that period realised substantial gains, casting doubt on Faber’s precision. Faber defended his predictions, citing a 2012 correction as proof. He remained steadfast, believing that his warnings would eventually be vindicated. Faber shrugged off the criticism, stating he is no stranger to detractors. The confrontation underscored the divergent views on market trends, leaving the question of who will be proven correct.

“I assure you that when all is said and done, people will appreciate me warning them not to invest all their money in stocks,” Faber added. “I’m accustomed to people like you who constantly criticise me.”

“You’re accusing me of being incorrect? I find it amusing,” Faber concluded. –CNBC

Here, he predicted a significant recession in 2018

As it turns out, the only recession was in his predictions—the only thing that has been in a bear market for now. Therefore, it could be profitable if you are a permabear in his ability to predict market direction.

Then, he goes on to state the party will end in 2018. Random Thoughts on Being a Permabear.

Firstly, we hope most of our subscribers begin to understand that giving in to fear is perilous. Life and investing should not be stressful; stress is something that every tactical investor should avoid. Moreover, remember, stress is a matter of perception; change the perception, and one can transition from being stressed to being calm.

Experts often argue that investing is difficult and that mastering this art takes a lifetime. Remember that investing is an art, not a science, and art is meant to be enjoyed. So are the masses starting to jump on the bandwagon after this strong turnaround? The obvious answer would be yes. The not-so-obvious answer would be no. Continue reading. At least in the first half of 2019, the not-so-obvious answer would be the correct choice. The masses are still anxious, and until they start to celebrate in the streets, every strong correction should be viewed from a bullish perspective.

The Current Bull: Unlike Any Other Bull Market

This bull market is unique; before 2009, one could have relied on extensive technical studies to more or less predict the top of a market with a margin of error of a few months; after 2009, the game plan changed, and 99% of these traders and experts failed to factor this into the equation. Technical analysis as a standalone tool would not work as well as before 2009 and, in many cases, would lead to an incorrect conclusion.

In short, there are still too many pessimists (experts, average Joes, and everyone in between), and until they start to embrace this market, most pullbacks, mild to wild, will be mistakenly identified as the big ones.

The results are self-evident; most of our holdings were in the red during the pullback, but now they are in the black, proving that one should buy when there’s panic in the streets. It’s a catchy and easy phrase to utter but very challenging to implement because the masses will choose to be pushed when faced with a push or shove situation.

Stock Market Update March 2023

In times of crisis, such as the current coronavirus pandemic, it can be prudent to nibble at stocks with a long-term perspective. Instead of investing all your funds at once, consider investing in smaller increments to average your entry price and protect against stock market dips.

At the Tactical Investor, we focus on longer-term plays that typically span several months. However, in times of crisis like these, we’re seeing a surge in the potential for huge profits, so our time frames have lengthened accordingly. While the short-term market may seem like a massacre, it’s also a hotbed for exceptional opportunities that can herald the next bull market.

Investing is easy when everything appears to be going well, but unfortunately, that’s when most assets are already overpriced. When times seem grim, that’s precisely when the best bargains can be found. So, consider examining the market more closely during these volatile times, and you may uncover some hidden treasures.

FAQ

Q: What is a permabear? A: A permabear refers to an investor who consistently maintains a bearish outlook on the market, predicting downturns and advocating for a defensive or negative investment strategy.

Q: Why is being a permabear criticised? A: Being a permabear is often criticised because historical data shows that the stock market tends to rise over the long term. Critics argue that Permabears misses out on potential gains by constantly expecting market declines and failing to take advantage of positive trends.

Q: What evidence is provided against being a permabear? The text suggests that examining long-term charts and trends reveals that being a permabear does not pay off. It emphasises that stock market charts demonstrate consistent upward movement, and taking a bearish stance is unlikely to yield positive results over time.

Q: What factors should be considered in determining investment trends? A: The text suggests focusing on mass sentiment, extreme patterns (through technical analysis), and long-term chart trends. It argues that news is less relevant and that fear-based decision-making is discouraged, as fear rarely leads to favourable outcomes.

Q: Who is Marc Faber, and what are his views on market predictions? Marc Faber is mentioned as someone who has consistently predicted significant market crashes, but these predictions have not materialised. The text implies that Faber’s accuracy has been questioned, with critics suggesting his scenarios have a low probability of occurring.

Q: How did Marc Faber defend his bearish predictions? In response to criticism, Faber defended his predictions by citing a 2012 correction as evidence of his accuracy. He expressed confidence that his warnings would eventually be appreciated and dismissed the criticism, stating that he is accustomed to facing detractors.

Q: What is the perspective on investing during times of crisis? A: During times of crisis, the text suggests that it can be wise to take a long-term perspective and consider investing in smaller increments to average the entry price. It highlights that volatile times often present exceptional profit opportunities and recommends exploring the market during such periods.

Q: What is the suggested approach to investing during market downturns? A: The text advises considering investments when the market appears bleak, as it is often when the best deals can be found. It encourages investors to look for hidden gems and emphasises that the short-term market turmoil may present opportunities for substantial gains in the long run.

Psychology Unveiled: Exploring the Depths of the Human Mind

Posted on 07/07/2023 by Alan Solomon

Ahoy there, fellow explorer! It is an undeniable truth that the emotions within us drive the ebb and flow of the vast marketplace. This is precisely why the study of psychology holds such paramount importance. Join us on a journey into the realm of mass psychology, where we seek to enlighten and educate you on the intricate dynamics of the collective consciousness. Our focus on demystifying the stock market for beginners revolves around a simple yet timeless principle: Keep It Simple, Smart (KISS). Embracing simplicity often paves the way to triumph.

At the Tactical Investor, our mission is to be your guide, providing you with the knowledge and tools to harness the power of mass psychology for your own gain. By comprehending the emotions that steer the masses, you will have the upper hand in making well-informed investment choices. Waste no time in hesitation; embark with us on this voyage towards financial prosperity!

Psychology Unveiled: Emotions as the Driving Force in Markets

The underlying truth is that the stock markets are swayed by the whims of emotional crowds. To gain an advantage, one must fully grasp the intricacies of crowd psychology and the emotions that govern them. By doing so, you can position yourself against the prevailing sentiment and make wise investments.

However, be cautious, for as the masses become more irrational, knowing when to cut your losses and exit becomes paramount. This is where the principles of contrarian investing and the laws of mass psychology come into play, serving as essential tools in the arsenal of any successful investor.

Psychology Unveiled – Technical Analysis & the Unveiling of Mass Psychology

In the realm of stock market investing, the often-overlooked art of mass psychology holds the key to unravelling market trends and uncovering profitable opportunities. The masses are driven by their emotions, and by understanding these emotions, savvy investors can stay ahead of the game and exploit the tendencies of herd mentality for their benefit.

Furthermore, when combined with the study of mass psychology, technical analysis provides a comprehensive approach to investing. Equipped with precise tools and methodologies, technical analysis aids in determining overbought and oversold conditions in the markets, enabling investors to make well-informed decisions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remember that attempting to predict market tops and bottoms is a futile endeavour that only leads to disappointment and pain. The real key lies in identifying the trend; with that knowledge, the path to investment success becomes clear.

At the Tactical Investor, we recognize the significance of mob psychology and technical analysis, which is why we have curated this section specifically for those seeking to expand their understanding of the stock market and make astute investments. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned investor, our focus is to assist you in mastering the art of contrarian investing and tilting the markets in your favour.

The Path to Stock Market Success: Embracing a Steady and Certain Approach

Heed the timeless advice: “If you delay, you lose.” In the realm of stock market investing, indecision and inaction can prove costly. Those who hesitate, waiting for the perfect moment, often miss out on opportunities altogether. The key to successful investing lies in understanding the power of emotions and the behavior of the masses.

This is why familiarizing yourself with mass psychology and technical analysis principles is crucial. Just as the fable of the tortoise and the hare teaches us, slow and steady wins the race. Begin with a solid foundation by investing in strong, financially stable companies before venturing into riskier options or penny stocks. And always remember, the optimal time to invest is when the masses are gripped by fear and uncertainty.

Psychology Unveiled: Mastering the Art of Timing and Emotional Awareness

In the realm of stock market success, a combination of sound decision-making, patience, and precise timing is essential. While rushing into options or penny stocks may seem tempting for quick riches, the reality is that only a small fraction of those who take that path achieve success. Instead, focus on reputable companies with steady earnings growth and gradually build your portfolio.

Avoid waiting too long to seize opportunities, as fear and hesitation often lead to missed chances. However, blindly following the crowd and investing when everyone else does is equally unwise. Utilize the principles of mass psychology and technical analysis to identify the optimal entry and exit points for your investments.

Consider it a race between the tortoise and the hare, where the patient and consistent approach prevails. Timing is crucial in the stock market, and delaying too much can mean missing out on the entire journey. However, by entering early, even if it involves some initial challenges, the rewards will be worth it.

Remember, the prime time to purchase stocks is when the masses are in a state of panic, while the ideal time to sell is when they are swept up in euphoria.

Avoid Confusing Market Timing with Crowd Sentiment Monitoring. It is vital to remember that the most opportune moments for stock investment arise when the masses are in a state of panic, and the best time to sell is during euphoric periods. However, it’s important not to mistake this concept for precisely timing the market bottom. Instead, focus on detecting shifts in crowd sentiment by utilizing the principles of mass psychology and technical analysis to guide your investment decisions.

Investing Wisdom for the Aspiring Stock Market Enthusiast: A Beginner’s Guide

“An investment in knowledge pays the highest dividends.” – Benjamin Franklin “Market bottoms are not reached after four-year lows but after ten- or fifteen-year lows.” – Jim Rogers “I will share the secret to becoming wealthy: close the doors, be cautious when others are overly optimistic, and be optimistic when others are fearful.” – Warren Buffett “The stock market is filled with individuals who know the price of everything but the value of nothing.” – Phillip Fisher “Investing, comfort rarely leads to profitability.” – Robert Arnott “Can you name any millionaires who became wealthy by investing in savings accounts? I rest my case.” – Robert G. Allen “Invest in yourself. Your career is the engine of your wealth.” – Paul Clitheroe “The individual investor should consistently act as an investor and not a speculator.” – Ben Graham “It’s not about how much money you make, but about how much money you retain, how effectively it works for you, and how many generations it benefits.” – Robert Kiyosaki “Know what you own and understand why you own it.” – Peter Lynch

Psychology Unveiled: The Vitality of Paper Trading

While fully comprehending the inner workings of the market may take time, it is certainly an achievable task. The key lies in being patient and persistent in your learning process.

Before venturing into real-money investments, engaging in paper trading is crucial. This practice allows you to experience the market and learn from your mistakes without risking your capital. Once you have a solid understanding, you can gradually transition to investing small amounts of real money, increasing your investments as your confidence grows.

Investor’s Respite: Let Us Lighten Your Load

The Tactical Investor goes beyond being a mere stock-picking service. In fact, more than half of those who have discovered us have become subscribers, drawn to our unique blend of information and education. By joining us, you not only gain access to stock recommendations but also learn how to trade like a seasoned professional. Follow the provided link to take advantage.

What happens if the stock market crashes?

Posted on 03/07/2023 by Alan Solomon

The stock market has been a popular investment avenue for individuals and organizations for many years. Despite its popularity, many experts continue to make predictions about when the stock market is going to crash, and these predictions have often proven to be wrong. In fact, going back to the Tulip bubble in the 1600s, the history of the stock market is filled with examples of experts who claimed to know when the market would crash, yet they were consistently incorrect.

One of the reasons why experts continue to make these incorrect predictions is because the stock market is inherently unpredictable. Market crashes are usually caused by a combination of factors, such as changes in government policies, geopolitical events, economic downturns, and unexpected developments in technology. It is difficult, if not impossible, for anyone to predict when and how these factors will come into play. As a result, predictions about the stock market’s future are often based on speculation and intuition, rather than sound analysis.

Another reason why experts get it wrong is that they often overlook the market’s underlying strength. Despite its volatility, the stock market has proven to be resilient over the long term, and has consistently delivered returns to investors who are willing to hold onto their investments for the long haul. This resilience is due in part to the market’s ability to absorb shocks, recover from downturns, and continue to grow, even during times of economic turbulence.

From a bullish perspective, a stock market crash can be seen as a buying opportunity. During a market crash, prices of stocks often fall dramatically, and investors who are willing to take advantage of the dip can buy high-quality stocks at a lower price. Over time, as the market recovers, these stocks are likely to appreciate in value, delivering substantial returns to the investor.

On the other hand, a contrarian perspective would argue that a stock market crash is a sign of systemic problems in the economy. During a market crash, investors are usually panicked, and they tend to sell their stocks, causing prices to fall even further. This creates a vicious cycle, as investors become increasingly pessimistic and sell even more of their stocks, causing prices to fall even more. A contrarian would argue that a market crash is not a buying opportunity, but rather a sign that it’s time to get out of the market and wait for better times.

In conclusion, while experts continue to make predictions about when the stock market will crash, their track record has been consistently poor. The stock market is inherently unpredictable, and its resilience over the long term suggests that it’s often wise to ignore the noise and focus on building a diversified portfolio that is well-positioned to withstand short-term turbulence. Whether a market crash is seen as a buying opportunity or a warning sign will depend on the perspective of the investor, but it is important to understand that, over the long term, the stock market has proven to be a reliable investment vehicle for those who are willing to be patient and stick to their investment plan.

Pray tell, in these times of economic turmoil and financial insecurity, it seems as though the masses are quick to bemoan the stock market and its tumultuous ways. Yet, it is often the case that such bearishness proves to be unwarranted, for as the great sage Warren Buffett has oft stated, the markets are a veritable guarantee to rise in the long term.

And so, even as the spectre of market crashes looms large, the astute investor must not be swayed by the rabble’s fearmongering. Nay, rather one should view these tempests as opportunities to buy quality stocks at a discounted price. For, when the masses are in a state of panic and selling off, the wise investor takes advantage, backed by the knowledge that the central bankers of the world shall not let the markets falter for long.

Indeed, look around and observe the various stimulus programs being announced. Money shall continue to flood the markets, and the fear of the masses shall be assuaged. So, embrace the corrections, good sir or madam, for they shall bring bountiful opportunities for those who have the foresight to see it.

Conclusion

Ah, but let us not forget, amidst all the uncertainty and turmoil, that a market crash can be a rare and wondrous opportunity for those with the mettle to seize it! For when the masses panic and sell off their stock in a frenzied haste, the astute investor sees not Chaos and despair, but a veritable feast of bargains and opportunities waiting to be claimed!

Indeed, as the smoke clears and the dust settles, the shrewd investor calmly approaches the market, seeking out the gems that have been cast aside by the masses in their blind panic. And as they fill their portfolios with these undervalued treasures, they bask in the knowledge that they have outmanoeuvred their less insightful counterparts and emerged from the crash not merely unscathed, but richer for the experience.

So, let the market crash if it must! For those with a contrarian spirit and an unwavering faith in their own instincts, it is but a minor bump in the road, an obstacle to be overcome on the path to riches and success!

Achieving Financial Goals with Intelligent Investing Strategies

Posted on 03/07/2023 by Alan Solomon

Intelligent investing strategies seek to minimize risk and maximize returns through the use of thoughtful, data-driven approaches. These strategies aim to make informed decisions based on a deep understanding of market trends, economic indicators, and other relevant factors rather than relying on gut feelings or emotional reactions.

One popular approach to intelligent investing is value investing, which seeks to identify undervalued stocks that have the potential to grow in the future. This approach is based on the idea that stocks are priced based on their earnings potential and that by identifying stocks that are trading at a lower price relative to their earnings, investors can achieve higher returns over the long-term.

Another intelligent investing strategy is factor investing, which seeks to identify and invest in stocks that have certain characteristics, such as high dividend yields or strong momentum. This approach is based on the idea that these characteristics are indicative of future stock performance and can be used to generate higher returns.

Additionally, intelligent investing strategies often involve the use of modern technology and data analysis, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to identify market trends and make informed investment decisions. By utilizing these cutting-edge tools, investors can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the market and make better-informed decisions.

Intelligent investing strategies aim to provide investors with a disciplined, data-driven approach to the stock market, helping them to minimize risk and maximize returns over the long-term. By utilizing a combination of value investing, factor investing, and modern technology, investors can achieve success and achieve their financial goals.

Stock market performance 2019

Posted on 03/06/2023 by Yanis P.

Stock Market 2018 Graph: The trend is your friend

Stock market performance 2019: Financial experts continue to state that the markets are going to crash, even though their record since this bull market started back in 2009 has been dismal to the say the least. To complicate matters, some of these same experts suddenly jump ship and start to paint a bullish picture until the markets start to pull back. Then they falsely assume that the markets are going to crash and start singing the “market is going to crash” song again.

Market sentiment is not extremely bullish, though the bullish sentiment has been trending upwards since Feb of this year. Crowd psychology states that one should only abandon the ship when the masses are euphoric. As that’s not the case, there is no reason to abandon the ship.

The Market has shed some weight, but given the massive run-up, this market has experienced this falls well within the normal ranges of an acceptable correction. In fact, the Dow could drop all the way to 21,500 without having any effect on the trend.

Stock market outlook 2018 still bullish according to TI Dow Theory

Our alternative Dow Theory states that the Dow follows the Utilities and unless the utilities drop to new lows the markets will continue trading within a wide range. The utilities have held up very well when one considers all the outside factors; extremely volatile geopolitical situation (trade wars, disputes with our NATO allies, etc.) and the extremely polarised way the masses are behaving. One would think that we are just one step away from a civil war.

Until the sentiment changes or the utilities drop to new lows, your best bet is to use strong pullbacks to purchase quality stocks.

Most financial experts are closer to clowns than experts, and most financial sites are on par with tabloids; their sole function is to create bombastic titles with little to no subject matter to back their faulty assertions. One would be best served by taking their advice with a barrel of salt and a shot of whiskey.

Focus on Mass Psychology and identify the sentiment that’s driving the masses. The Crowd drives the markets, and if you identify the emotion that’s driving them, you can determine the trend of the market.

Tactical Investor stock market 2018 outlook is also validated by the Dow Transports. Note that they are also holding up well and unless they trade below 9500 on a monthly basis, the outlook will remain bullish. The trend is your friend and everything else is your foe. As the trend is positive, view sharp pullbacks through a bullish lens; the stronger the deviation, the better the opportunity.

Courtesy of Tactical Investor

Random views on Stock Market 2018 Graph

2018 was a record-setting year for stocks, but it’s one investors would rather forget.

The Dow fell 5.6%. The S&P 500 was down 6.2% and the Nasdaq fell 4%. It was the worst year for stocks since 2008 and only the second year the Dow and S&P 500 fell in the past decade. (The S&P 500 and Dow were down slightly in 2015, but the Nasdaq was higher that year.)
December was a particularly dreadful month: The S&P 500 was down 9% and the Dow was down 8.7% — the worst December since 1931. In one seven-day stretch, the Dow fell by 350 points or more six times. This year’s Christmas Eve was the worst ever for the index.
The S&P 500 was up or down more than 1% nine times in December alone, compared to eight times in all of 2017. It moved that much 64 times during the year.
2018 wasn’t all bad. The S&P 500 set an all-time record on September 20, and the Dow closed at its record on October 3. The Dow also closed more than 1,000 points higher on December 26 — the first time it ever accomplished that feat.
But 2018 will be remembered for its extreme volatility. The VIX volatility index spiked, and CNN Business’ Fear & Greed Index has been stuck in “Extreme Fear” throughout much of the year. The Dow has swung 1,000 points in a single session only eight times in its history, and five of those took place in 2018. Full Story

Unlike last year, when the stock market rose steadily — and considerably — in the first quarter, Wall Street has gotten off to a disappointing and disconcerting start in 2018.

As concerns have shifted back and forth from a sluggish economy to an overheating one, the market has taken investors on a roller coaster ride, resulting in poor returns and testing investors’ strategy and resolve.

A SLUGGISH START
Unlike last year, stocks stumbled at the start of 2018.
Making matters worse, there has been no place to hide in the stock market so far this year.

In the first quarter, losses were felt across the board — not only in sectors that performed well at the start of 2017 but in both economically sensitive areas of the market (such as real estate and basic materials) and defensive areas (such as consumer staples and utilities).
Meanwhile, market volatility has come back with a vengeance.

Wall Street strategists typically look at the Chicago Board Options Exchange Volatility Index to judge the rockiness of the market. And by that gauge, which measures fear based on options trading, volatility returned to levels seen in the financial crisis years.

But there’s a simpler way to judge how shaky the market is, and that’s to count the number of days in which stocks climb or fall by 1% or more. In the first quarter of 2018, there were 25 such trading days, more than in any full year since 2009. Full Story

Here are some ingredients for stock-market gloom: A trade dispute between the world’s two largest economies, a Federal Reserve pushing the yield curve toward inversion, and a U.S. president under investigation by an independent counsel.

But enough about 1994.

Seriously, though, investors might want to take a look back at the events of the same year that brought the world Forrest Gump and the founding of a plucky little company called Amazon for a “possible analog” to the current stock market environment, argued Tony Dwyer, analyst at Canaccord Genuity, in a Monday note that highlights the chart below, one that looks somewhat similar to the pattern seen in 2018.
The S&P 500 index SPX, -0.53% fell 1.5% in 1994, according to FactSet, while the index is down 3.9% in the year to date in 2018.

Dwyer emphasized that the backdrops now and in 1994 aren’t exactly alike, but said there are enough similarities between the current political, macroeconomic, Fed policy and market environment to that year to potentially offer some insights.

Moreover, if 1994 and 2018 share similar backdrops, does 1995 offer a guide to 2019? Dwyer noted that after the near-doubling of short-term interest rates in 1994, the first half of 1995 saw just 0.5% annualized gross domestic product growth. The Fed, however, remained worried about inflation and hiked interest rates one more time in February. Full Story

Quantitative Easing Definition

Posted on 03/05/2023 by Yanis P.

Forever Quantitative Easing: Is it here to stay?

The term forever QE has just started to come into play recently, and mainstream media is most likely going to embrace this term and weaponise it in not so distant future. However, we first addressed this phenomenon back in in 2015 and here is the link that details what was said at that time.

The outlook has only worsened since then; the new tax breaks corporations got will be used to purchase more shares, and the reason is simple, it pays more in the short term to boost profits by reducing share count than in investing in the company. Corporations will continue down this path until new laws are enacted and they will become more emboldened with time. Gone are the days when there was a semblance of caring for the investor; insiders are only concerned with how much they can make, and they don’t care if they destroy the company in the process. Share buybacks are rising and have continued to grow since we first posted that article.

Forever Quantitative Easing Fuelling Buyback binge

Buybacks appear to be nearing a crescendo, with total U.S. stock repurchase announcements crossing the $1 trillion mark in mid-December for the first time, according to Michael Schoonover, the portfolio manager of the Catalyst Buyback Strategy fund (ticker: BUYIX). “There’s been a significant pickup in recent weeks,” with markets in a downdraft, he adds. Announcements reached $1.08 trillion, with nearly half concentrated in 19 companies, which account for $460 billion of the total. Some of those are listed in the nearby table. Despite the record-setting buyback authorization levels, 2018 has been an unusual year in that fewer companies are accounting for the total buybacks, he says.

Take this as an early warning that should the media jackasses start pushing another B.S story, instead of panicking, one should break out of a bottle of champagne, and as the masses panic calmly sip on that champagne and build a list of strong stocks one always wanted to purchase. For those allergic to work, the option is simple; sit back and relax, for we always view crash type events as opportune moments when the trend is positive. Market update Feb 28, 2019

Mass Media Fails To Account For Forever Quantitative Easing

The wise guys at the Mass Media outlets are already pushing a new narrative. This is how they incept new ideas into the masses; you create doubt and then let that doubt grow. For example, they are making all sorts of dire predictions about Brexit (some of which border on the preposterous), they keep focussing on the calamitous consequences the US will face if there is no trade deal with China, experts are emerging about the dangers of lower rates and an inverted yield curve, etc. Well, think of any garbage and add it to this list. For that is what these garbage collectors do, they collect waste and try to spin it off as something valuable.

Before the Brexit vote, the naysayers made a great deal of noise of how a “yes” vote would lead to total chaos. So, what happened to that chaotic scene they predicted? We are not taking sides but looking at trends and history, and history is replete with examples illustrating that when “fear” is used as a weapon, the ones to fear are the ones putting this weapon to use.

History also demonstrates that in general individuals favour freedom over serfdom. Independence can never lead to chaos unless you are impinging on another person’s sovereignty in the process. Whatever narrative the Media is pushing, it is usually the opposing narrative that is true. According to the experts, the world should have ended several times over, and the Dow should have crashed and never risen years ago.

Naysayers are always wrong in the long run

One theme running through all those gloomy predictions of doom is that those making those dire predictions are doomed to be wrong. Case and point, the dire predictions market experts have made since the market bottomed in 2009. Or the idiotic stance by politicians such AOC on Amazon opening a new Head Quarters in NYC. This plan would have increased Tax revenues significantly and provided 25K plus jobs. Sam Zell, had some choice words on this topic, that pithily summarises the Amazon fiasco. Observe the video, and you will get a laugh from it as this is another one of those hot mike events.

Whether Amazon is fair in the way it conducts its business operations is a separate story; in terms of trends, companies like Amazon need to stop some of their predatory practices or risk being suddenly upended. AI is gaining traction at a stunning rate, and it is going to help many small companies take on industry giants at a speed that will stun these dinosaurs. While experts state that it could AI years to compete with Humans; we feel a major announcement could be made within the next 18-39 months that will stun the world. If this announcement is made, then AI will be smarter than humans in less than 36 months from the date of that announcement.

Uncertainty is still running high

The masses are still uncertain, and we find uncertainty adorable; nothing is more bullish for the markets than an undecided crowd.

The best time to buy is when the masses are in panic mode, and when one feels far from certain about the future of the markets; certainty is the secret word for failure when it comes to the stock markets. Market Update Feb 28, 2019

What is striking is that over the past several weeks the number of individuals in the Neutral camp has hardly budged and is gently trending upwards. Since the last update, we have two sets of new readings. Last week the number of individuals in the neutral camp stood at 39, this week they increased to 41. So far in 2019, the number of individuals in the neutral camp has always surpassed those in the bullish or bearish camps, and this is very revealing. It clearly indicates that the masses are suffering from a long term bias and that the political landscape is messing with their ability to distinguish reality from fiction.

Until we have a feeding frenzy stage, this bull market will not end
While you might feel sorry for them, just watch Pluto’s allegory of the cave to see how well the masses will reward you for trying to wake them up. In a nutshell, this development is a very bullish factor for it means that eventually, this market is going to experience what could turn out to be an extreme “feeding frenzy stage”. The crowd will ultimately be so mad they sat and did nothing for so long, that they will double up on this market and their sweet reward as always will be a very sharp guillotine.

Masses will eventually embrace this bull

However, contrarian players will mistake the initial surge in bullishness as a sign that the markets are ready to top out and will end up shedding a lot of tears in the process. At the Tactical Investor, our strategy is different; we will not adopt a position that opposes the masses until the crowd is in a state of ecstasy, in other words, the bandwagon of joy should be ready to collapse before we consider betting against the masses. As the masses held off for so long, the buying climax could last for an extended period. Remember the equation must always balance. As we are quite far from the “feeding frenzy stage”, there is no point in wasting too much time on it. Suffice to say, this bull market is not ready to die.

This bull market is unlike any other; before 2009, one could have relied on extensive technical studies to more or less call the top of a market give or take a few months; after 2009, the game plan changed and 99% of these traders/experts failed to factor this into the equation. Technical analysis as a standalone tool would not work as well as did before 2009 and in many cases would lead to a faulty conclusion. Long story short, there are still too many people pessimistic (experts, your average Joes and everything in between) and until they start to embrace this market, most pullbacks ranging from mild to wild will falsely be mistaken for the big one. Market Update Feb 28, 2019

One should remember this paragraph every time the urge to panic starts to rise; no bull market has ever ended on a note of fear or anxiety. Despite the media trying to create a new narrative to prove otherwise for the past several years; they have failed miserably, showing that news, in general, should either be treated as rubbish or viewed through a humorous lens.

Conclusion

In terms of the stock market, until the Fed changes its mind, all sharp corrections have to be viewed as buying opportunities, and backbreaking corrections have to be placed in the category of “once in a lifetime events”, provided of course the trend is positive. That is what we are here for; to inform you if the trend is positive (Up) or negative (down). The world is going to witness a Fed that has decided to make a cocktail of Coke, Heroin, Crack and Meth and take it all in one shot. Imagine what a junkie on this combination of potent drugs is capable of doing, and you will have an idea of where the Fed is heading in the years to come. Market Update Feb 28, 2019

Courtesy of Tactical Investor

Random views on QE

Quantitative Easing definition?

Quantitative easing is an unconventional monetary policy in which a central bank purchases government securities or other securities from the market in order to increase the money supply and encourage lending and investment. When short-term interest rates are at or approaching zero, normal open market operations, which target interest rates, are no longer effective, so instead a central bank can target specified amounts of assets to purchase. Quantitative easing increases the money supply by purchasing assets with newly created bank reserves in order to provide banks with more liquidity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Quantitative easing, or “QE,” is the name for a strategy that a central bank can use to increase the domestic money supply.

QE is usually used when interest rates are already near 0 percent and can be focused on the purchase of government bonds from banks.

QE programs were widely used following the 2008 financial crisis, although some central banks, like the Bank of Japan, had been using QE for several years prior to the financial crisis. Full Story

Quantitative Easing Explained

Quantitative easing is a massive expansion of the open market operations of a central bank. It’s used to stimulate the economy by making it easier for businesses to borrow money. The bank buys securities from its member banks to add liquidity to capital markets. This has the same effect as increasing the money supply. In return, the central bank issues credit to the banks’ reserves to buy the securities.

Where do central banks get the credit to purchase these assets? They simply create it out of thin air. Only central banks have this unique power. This is what people are referring to when they talk about the Federal Reserve “printing money.”
Lower interest rates allow banks to make more loans. Bank loans stimulate demand by giving businesses money to expand. They give shoppers credit to purchase more goods and services.

By increasing the money supply, QE keeps the value of the country’s currency low. This makes the country’s stocks more attractive to foreign investors. It also makes exports cheaper.

Japan was the first to use QE from 2001 to 2006. It restarted in 2012, with the election of Shinzo Abe as Prime Minister. He promised reforms for Japan’s economy with his three-arrow program, “Abenomics.”
The U.S. Federal Reserve undertook the most successful QE effort. It added almost $2 trillion to the money supply. That’s the largest expansion from any economic stimulus program in history. Full Story

Why do we need quantitative easing?

The aim of QE is simple: by creating this ‘new’ money, we aim to boost spending and investment in the economy.
We are tasked with keeping inflation – rises in the prices of goods and services – low and stable.

The normal way we meet our inflation target is by changing Bank Rate, a key interest rate in the economy.

When the global recession took hold in late 2008, we quickly lowered Bank Rate from 5% to 0.5% to support the UK’s economic recovery. Lower interest rates mean it’s cheaper for households and businesses to borrow money – which encourages them to spend and invest, whether that’s a family buying a new car or a company wanting to build a new factory.

But there’s a limit to how low interest rates can go. So when we needed to act to boost the economy, we turned to another method of doing so: we introduced quantitative easing. Full Story

Job Displacement

Lack of Emotional Intelligence

Privacy Concerns

Bias in AI

AI in Warfare

Dependence on AI

Ethical Implications

Other Articles of Interest

Introduction

The Essence of a Stock Market Emotions Chart

The Inner Workings of a Stock Market Emotions Chart

Benefits of Using Stock Market Emotions Chart

Common Emotions That Drive Market Movements

Other Articles of Interest

Banksters Band: Exploiting the Disadvantaged, Fostering the Wealth of the Privileged

Unmasking the Covert Strategy: Exploiting Freedom and Wealth for Mass Ilusion

Conclusion

Other Articles of Interest

Unlocking Prosperity with the Investment Pyramid: From Structure to Strategic Mastery

Benefits of the Investment Pyramid Strategy

Embracing Tactical Diversification: The Route to Empowered Investment

Other Articles of Interest

The remedy is straightforward.

Marc Faber: The Hazard of Being A Permabear

Here, he predicted a significant recession in 2018

The Current Bull: Unlike Any Other Bull Market

Stock Market Update March 2023

FAQ

Other Articles of Interest

Psychology Unveiled: Emotions as the Driving Force in Markets

Psychology Unveiled – Technical Analysis & the Unveiling of Mass Psychology

The Path to Stock Market Success: Embracing a Steady and Certain Approach

Psychology Unveiled: Mastering the Art of Timing and Emotional Awareness

Investing Wisdom for the Aspiring Stock Market Enthusiast: A Beginner’s Guide

Psychology Unveiled: The Vitality of Paper Trading

Investor’s Respite: Let Us Lighten Your Load

Other Articles of Interest

Conclusion

Other Articles of Interest

Other Articles of Interest

Stock Market 2018 Graph: The trend is your friend

Stock market outlook 2018 still bullish according to TI Dow Theory

Random views on Stock Market 2018 Graph

Other Articles of Interest

Forever Quantitative Easing: Is it here to stay?

Forever Quantitative Easing Fuelling Buyback binge

Mass Media Fails To Account For Forever Quantitative Easing

Naysayers are always wrong in the long run

Uncertainty is still running high

Masses will eventually embrace this bull

Conclusion

Random views on QE

Quantitative Easing definition?

Quantitative Easing Explained

Why do we need quantitative easing?

Other Articles of Interest