Much is being written on the potential psychological effects of social isolation. This is not the place for an extensive review of all of the possible impacts of a lack of normal social interaction. However, it is important to recognize that we have evolved to be social creatures. For all of history, people have been … Continued
We have previously discussed proposals by economists and political scientists that would substitute universal basic income (UBI) policies as credible alternatives to existing social programs such as unemployment insurance. (See blogs titled Universal Basic Income, Universal Basic Income Revisited, Universal Basic Income – A Setback?, Universal Basic Income: Now India? and Universal Basic Income for America?). … Continued
No! Yes, the U.S. Treasury is in the process of borrowing $3 trillion to pay for the coronavirus response. It is not surprising that this unprecedented increase in the national debt has given rise to the issue of default. But the short and simple answer is, no, because the government can print money. If you borrow … Continued
“Necessity is the mother of invention” is a proverb that means, roughly, the primary driving force for most new inventions is a need. Now, with the world in the throes of dealing with the health and economic impact of Covid-19, the need for solutions could not be higher. While it is essentially impossible to describe … Continued
Predictive modelling uses statistics to predict outcomes. It is important to recognize that models are only as good as the modeler, who is only as good as the available data. Modelling is essentially an exercise in collecting and combining available information and, to some extent, estimates by the modeler. Some, but not all, of … Continued
According to Wikipedia, a black swan event is a metaphor that describes an event that comes as a surprise, has a major effect, and is often inappropriately rationalized after the fact with the benefit of hindsight. In other words, a black swan event is being blindsided, followed by finger pointing, based on 20/20 hindsight. Black … Continued
“The Boy Who Cried Wolf” is one of Aesop’s Fables and concerns a shepherd boy who repeatedly tricks nearby villagers into thinking a wolf is attacking the town’s flock. When a wolf actually does appear and the boy again calls for help, the villagers believe that it is another false alarm and the sheep are … Continued
Maybe I should not be surprised at the speed and rate at which Americans have risen and mobilized to fight this war… but I am. I am truly amazed. If we saw it in a movie we would not believe it. American spirit, ingenuity and business are now on display and it is nothing short … Continued
The $2 trillion coronavirus-relief bill that was signed into law on Friday contains several provisions related to retirement accounts that will affect the manner in which we plan for clients. Relaxed Required Minimum Distributions for 2020 Similar to the provision that was included in 2009 legislation, required minimum distribution from IRA’s and 401(k) accounts have … Continued
Upcoming data will indicate the sky is falling… We are starting to receive economic data reflecting the impact of COVID-19 on the US economy. For example, unemployment claims for the week ending 3/20/20 were recently reported and came in at over 3.2 million. Is the sky falling? It will be difficult to put into context … Continued
Political risk is a type of risk that can be materially affected by political decisions, events, or conditions. Investors should recognize that this type of risk differs from more traditional economic risks. Currently, company specific investment analysis is being overshadowed by uncertainty surrounding the impact of the health emergency and government efforts to protect citizens … Continued
There is so much negative news out there right now. Everyone is feeling anxiety and stress, so I thought it would be helpful to pass along some of the good news that is being circulated. This blog was originally posted by Peter Diamandis (linked to the original below.) (1) Vaccine development: An experimental vaccine developed by … Continued
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