The Flinchum File

Thoughtful Economic Analysis and Existential Opinions
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Wayward Bull

Unfortunately, many parents have had the experience of raising a wayward child.  You spend decades teaching and coaching to the best of your ability.  You are proud of them!  Then, disturbing little signs start to worry you.  Suddenly, she is gone, and you are worried sick.  One day, you see her in the distance, returning home.  Your face explodes in tears.  You are so happy to see her again.

A bit melodramatic, perhaps, but that is the way investors often react to bear markets.  The market starts leaking value slowly, then picks up speed.  Investors worry themselves sick.  One day, the market stops falling.  Your face shows the relief.  You are so happy to see the bull return.

Eighteen months ago, investors thought the stock market was great.  Today, the market is the same place it was eighteen months ago.  Nothing has changed, except you are a little older.

If you have kids, don’t you have more important things to worry about?