The VIX and gold rising … a “marketological” omen or a sign of good fortune? Normally, omen is the right choice, but times are not normal.
Americans sought unemployment aid last week, evidence that employers are holding onto their workers despite signs of weak growth.
See what I mean? If the economy is so weak, why are employers holding onto their workers and paying them more?
Something to Consider
– Since the beginning of 2015 alone, about $250 billion has moved out of actively managed mutual funds and into passively managed index funds and ETFs. Maybe passively managed, but actively traded I would say, which brings me to Jamie Dimon.
“Trading is an absolutely critical function in modern society – for investors large and small and for corporations and governments. As the world grows, the absolute need for trading will increase globally as assets under management, trade, corporate clients and economies grow.”
Dimon’s impression assets under management are growing is incorrect, but he is correct about economies and trading growing, as global trade is opening up and expenses for trading everything are getting so low the masses can play the game too. Who needs high-priced money managers when some research and an online broker will do?
Two More Somethings To Consider
– Alaska Air (ALK) is buying Virgin America (VA) for 2.6 billion and in the process boosting revenue by 7.5 billion.
– In 2016, telecoms and utilities have outpaced the other eight sectors in the S&P 500, both racking up gains of around 15% through April 4. They also have led the pack over the past 12 months, advancing by more than 12%.
