Name This Country

a) Richest in the World
b) Largest Military
c) Center of World business and finance
d) Strongest education system
e) World center of innovation and invention
f) Currency the world standard of value
g) Highest standard of living
h) Controlled some 85% of the world's land mass

Answer: England 1900

Gold has had a nice run and is at a ten year high against the S&P 500.. Yet it is has only recovered 6% of its losses against the S&P 500 since 1980. We tell our friends that the next four years will not be like the last four years and that the next 18 years will not be like the last 18 years. People are chasing an old bet. They remain over weighted in financials and technology. I.E. winners from the last 18 years.

It's a new game, and as most investors have short memories and little long term perspective, it is not surprising to see the broader tape and observe current relative strength. A successful investor in a reflationary environment needs a company with true price controls and cost controls.

Discipline, patience and preparation made the Boston Red Sox 2007 World Champions. For 2007, the Sox tied for the for the best number in baseball at 3.94 pitches per plate appearance. The Red Sox had a huge advantage in the playoffs. Their advance scouting and preparation was so good the USA Today reported the scouts "provided reports so precise the Red Sox players thought they were going into the field with cheat sheets."

The typical investor that tries to force the market to do something is a guaranteed loser. He doesn't understand valuations or comprehend the power of compounding.

The Dem's debate last night looked like a SNL skit. Their protectionist, raising tax and anti growth themes are sure losers. Hillary started the debate by calling attention to her "pant suit made of asbestos." Very creative!

Barkly seen here studied everything. He was well read and measured in everything he did...he also never lost a battle.