by shady28 » Tue 19 May 2009, 10:27:44
$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('drew', 'A')AA, I play the markets too. It is a very risky thing to do, and not everyone is cut out for it. I am very grateful to this site and PO in general because I have been very heavily cash for several years now, in part because I though oil prices would tank the economy. I knew the housing bubble was a problem but didn't know when it would implode, just like I didn't know when (if) oil would be the catalyst. I have been successful only 50% of the time in my selling (things continued upwards)
Just for the record, here's my returns (lucky, lucky, lucky, I was-especially the 1st year)
'05 90%
'06 8%
'07 .5%
'08 1.5%
'09 15% so far....
I've been 50%+ cash for 2 years now.
I read the whole thread, I don't know exactly why you hit a few nerves, but you did.
I suspect jealousy, but perhaps a bit of hubris on your part too....
Drew
Most likely the reason for 'hitting nerves' is that what he (and you) are spewing is likely lies, even if it isn't you should realize that you are merely getting VERY lucky.
To explain, this market is currently sitting about 25% below where it was in January of 2004 (S&P 500).
This also happens to be about the same level it was at in April of 1997, on both S&P 500 and DJIA.
Basically, the 'average' stock market investor has made Zip, Zero, Nada, Nothing, in 12 years. So, if you've managed to make a lot of money in the market in the past 3 or 4 months, gratz to ya. The averages say that you are likely to lose it in short order. Chumps come and make a bunch of noise for a short time, then fade away, every day of the week. Just like in a Casino, which is what the stock market is.
Meanwhile, other investments from oi to gold and yes, even real estate, have gone up significantly in the past 12 years. For that matter, someone accumulating treasuries over that time is doing quite well now.
So, enjoy your day in the sun, because it is likely going to fade away quickly and all you'll be left with is anger and the search for a scapegoat.