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Thank You, Art!

I have never heard an unkind word about Art Cashin, who has worked on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange for well over 50 years — yes, well over fifty years!  Now the director of floor operations for UBS, he knows the old traditions and the new technologies better than anybody I follow.  He also has a wry sense of humor that I love.  As published by CNBC, here is his annual Christmas poem . . . enjoy!

Art Cashin
‘Tis two days before Christmas
and at each brokerage house
The only thing stirring
was the click of a mouse

Down on the Exchange
the tape inches along
Brokers bargained and traded
as they hummed an old song

The Fed turned data dependent
or so they would claim
Yet they hiked in December
though the data looked tame

KC took the series
and the Pats grabbed the Bowl
While American Pharoah
had the Crown as his goal

Our girls took the World Cup
they were just over-joyed
And we found us a new star
who was named Carli Lloyd

Letterman, he retired
and he quick grew a beard
And so did Paul Ryan
I’m thinking that’s weird

The Pope came to visit
and he drew quite a crowd
And hundreds of selfies
he even allowed

The Broadway play — “Hamilton”
as a show caused a flap
They’ve a sold out box office
with Founding Fathers who rap

Yet there’s still Cosby and Kim K
they still don’t bring us cheer
But it’s Christmastime, Alice
And Santa is near

So stop looking backwards
have a cup of good cheer
And kiss you a loved one
raise your hopes for next year

And amidst all the trading
Christmas themes we will heed
And share our good fortune
with families in need

And tomorrow they’ll pause
as we wait on the bell
To sing a tradition
a song for old “Nell”

Don’t let this year’s problems
impede Christmas Cheer
Resolve to be happy
throughout the New Year

And resist ye Grinch feelings
let joy never stop
Put the bad at the bottom
keep the good on the top

So count up your blessings
along with your worth
You’re still living here
in the best place on earth

And think ye of wonders
that light children’s eyes
And hope Santa will bring you
that Christmas surprise

So play ye a carol
by Mario Lanza
Unless you are waiting
to celebrate Kwanzaa

Hanukkah’s over
And Ramadan’s long gone
Different folks, different holidays
yet each spirit lives on

Whatever your feast is
we hope you all still
Find yourself just surrounded
by folks of goodwill

Thursday, as the bell rings
hark to your heart’s call
And as Santa would shout
Merry Christmas to All!

— By Art Cashin Prepared by UBS Financial Services.