Friday, November 29, 2024

Unsustainable stock pricing

 Unsustainable stock price zones occur when stock prices rise significantly above their intrinsic value, often due to speculative bubbles. These bubbles are fueled by factors such as excessive liquidity, investor psychology, and market sentiment, leading to rapid price increases that are not supported by fundamentals[2][3]. When the bubble bursts, it can result in sharp declines in stock prices, causing economic disruptions and recessions[1][2]. Historical examples include the 1920s stock market bubble and the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s[2][3]. Recognizing these unsustainable zones is crucial for investors to avoid significant financial losses.


Sources

[1] The worst stock market crashes of all time - IG https://www.ig.com/en/trading-strategies/the-worst-stock-market-crashes-of-all-time-181031

[2] How Do Asset Bubbles Cause Recessions? - Investopedia https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/082515/how-do-asset-bubbles-cause-recessions.asp

[3] 5 Stages of a Bubble - Investopedia https://www.investopedia.com/articles/stocks/10/5-steps-of-a-bubble.asp

[4] 15 Factors that Affect Stock Market Prices - Strike.money https://www.strike.money/stock-market/price-factors

[5] Stock Market Crash: Causes, History, and How to Protect Your ... https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/biggest-stock-market-crashes-in-history

[6] Biggest Stock Market Crashes In US History - Bankrate https://www.bankrate.com/investing/biggest-stock-market-crashes-in-us-history/

[7] [PDF] Stock Market Concentration - Morgan Stanley https://www.morganstanley.com/im/publication/insights/articles/article_stockmarketconcentration.pdf

[8] Understanding stock market volatility and how it could help you https://www.fidelity.com.sg/beginners/your-guide-to-stock-investing/understanding-stock-market-volatility

Monday, November 25, 2024

Bitcoin/Crypto to payoff National Debt (BTC) - 35 Trillion $ Only

Dollar gaining strength over other currencies by strategically building Bitcoin and Energy reserves can enbale USA to pay off the National Whopping debt of 35 Trillion $.

This would take a balancing act of Crypto mining and Energy reserves. Deploying nuclear power towards systematic mining along with building the reserves may just DO it.

Interested, read more....

While the idea of using cryptocurrency to address the U.S. national debt has gained attention, particularly from figures like Donald Trump and Senator Cynthia Lummis, the feasibility of systematically mining and trading crypto coins to pay off the debt faces several challenges:

Scale and Practicality

The U.S. national debt currently stands at approximately $35 trillion, which far exceeds the total market capitalization of all cryptocurrencies combined[1]. Even if the U.S. were to acquire a significant portion of the crypto market, it would likely be insufficient to make a substantial dent in the debt.

Mining Limitations

Bitcoin, the most prominent cryptocurrency, has a capped supply of 21 million coins, of which about 90% has already been mined[1]. This leaves limited potential for new Bitcoin production through mining. Additionally, the decentralized nature of cryptocurrency mining makes it difficult for a single entity, even a government, to control a significant portion of the mining process.

Proposed Strategies

Instead of mining, some politicians and industry figures have proposed alternative approaches:

1. Strategic Reserve: Senator Lummis has introduced a bill to establish a Bitcoin strategic reserve, aiming to acquire 5% of the total Bitcoin supply over time[3].

2. Debt Reduction Plan: Michael Saylor of MicroStrategy suggests that buying one million Bitcoins over five years could potentially reduce the national debt by $16 trillion, or 45% of the total[2].

3. Crypto Checks: Trump has suggested "issuing small crypto checks" as part of a strategy to repay the national debt[3].

 Economic Implications

Proponents argue that a Bitcoin reserve could:

- Stabilize the dollar and increase national wealth

- Serve as a hedge against inflation

- Preserve the country's financial dominance

However, critics point out the volatility of cryptocurrencies and the potential risks of relying on speculative assets for national debt management.

Political Considerations

The idea of using cryptocurrencies to address the national debt has gained some traction among certain political figures, but it remains a controversial and untested approach. It would require significant legislative support and a shift in monetary policy to implement such strategies.

In conclusion, while systematically mining and trading crypto coins is unlikely to be a viable solution for paying off the U.S. national debt, the broader concept of incorporating cryptocurrencies into national financial strategies is gaining attention. However, any such plans would face substantial practical, economic, and political hurdles before implementation.


Citations:

[1] https://cointelegraph.com/news/trump-promises-crypto-election-usa

[2] https://www.fxleaders.com/news/2024/11/15/michael-saylor-explains-how-a-bitcoin-reserve-could-reduce-u-s-debt-by-16-trillion/

[3] https://www.cointribune.com/en/donald-trump-suggests-using-bitcoin-to-repay-the-us-debt/

AAPL: Modestly overvalued

 


Thursday, November 21, 2024

Beware of the Bitcoin Hoarders

Several companies are hoarding Bitcoin as a strategy to potentially boost their stock prices. 

Here's a list of notable companies engaging in this practice:


1. MicroStrategy (MSTR): Holds approximately 279,420 bitcoins as of November 10, 2024.


2. Marathon Digital Holdings (MARA): Holds 10,427 BTC


3. Riot Platforms (RIOT): Holds 10,427 BTC.


4. CleanSpark (CLSK): Exact holdings not specified, but actively involved in Bitcoin mining.


5. Galaxy Digital: Holds 4,000 BTC.


6. Exodus (EXOD): Purchased 1,787 bitcoins in December 2023


7. NEXON: Holds 1,717 BTC.


8. Bit Digital (BTBT): Holds 731 BTC.


9. BIGG Digital Assets Inc: Holds 575 BTC.


10. Metaplanet: Recently doubled its BTC holdings to 855.5 bitcoins.


These companies have seen significant stock price increases correlating with their Bitcoin holdings. For example, MicroStrategy's stock price has increased by more than 26 times since August 2020 when it began its Bitcoin acquisition strategy. Similarly, Exodus has seen its stock price rise by 687% since its Bitcoin purchase.


https://www.chaincatcher.com/en/article/2147875

Sunday, November 17, 2024

Nvidia and 2 Chip Stocks to Buy

 Nvidia 

Marvell , and Broadcom  are well positioned to benefit from the trend, said analyst Blayne Curtis on Thursday. He has Buy ratings on all three companies.


Is Advanced Micro Devices Still Cheap?

 

Is Advanced Micro Devices Still Cheap?

Good news, investors! Advanced Micro Devices is still a bargain right now. According to our valuation, the intrinsic value for the stock is $213.12, but it is currently trading at US$139 on the share market, meaning that there is still an opportunity to buy now.

Intrigued read more here :: 
https://simplywall.st/stocks/us/semiconductors/nasdaq-amd/advanced-micro-devices/news/should-you-investigate-advanced-micro-devices-inc-nasdaqamd

Saturday, November 16, 2024

Managing Investment Risk: With a Simple Analogy

Mapping investments to the Mohs scale of hardness is an interesting analogy that can help illustrate the relative resilience and stability of different investment types. Here's how we might conceptualize this:

Investment Hardness Scale

1. Cash (Talc): Highly liquid but offers little resistance to inflation.

2. Savings Accounts (Gypsum): Slightly more resistant than cash, with minimal interest.

3. Certificates of Deposit (Calcite): More structured, with penalties for early withdrawal.

4. Government Bonds (Fluorite): Generally stable, but can be affected by interest rate changes.

5. Corporate Bonds (Apatite): Harder than government bonds, with higher yields but more risk.

6. Real Estate (Orthoclase): Tangible asset, resistant to some market fluctuations.

7. Blue Chip Stocks (Quartz): Well-established companies, relatively stable in the long term.

8. Growth Stocks (Topaz): Higher potential returns, but also higher volatility.

9. Commodities (Corundum): Hard assets like gold or oil, often used as inflation hedges.

10. Venture Capital/Private Equity (Diamond): Highest risk and potential reward, least liquid.

Key Considerations

Diversification:

Just as a geologist uses various minerals for different purposes, a balanced investment portfolio should include a mix of "hardnesses".

Risk Tolerance:

Your personal risk tolerance determines how far up the "hardness" scale you're comfortable investing.

Time Horizon: 

Longer investment horizons generally allow for "harder" investments that may be more volatile in the short term[5].

Liquidity Needs:

"Softer" investments are typically more liquid, while "harder" ones may be difficult to sell quickly.

Remember, this analogy is not perfect. Unlike minerals, investments can change in "hardness" over time, and market conditions can affect all levels of the scale. Always consult with a financial advisor to create an investment strategy tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Finally, Cryptos may be mapped to a Mohs scale as well.  Stablecoins, on the harder end, Well established ones like Bitcoin in the middle and smaller Altcoins on the softer end.

Disclaimer :: comparison is metaphorical rather than literal.

what are the top holdings of IBIT? Very interesting.

 Based on the available information, the top holdings of the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) are:


1. US Dollars: This makes up 99.96% of the fund's holdings.


2. Deposits with Broker for Short Positions: This accounts for the remaining 0.04% of the fund's holdings.


It's important to note that IBIT is designed to track the performance of Bitcoin. While the fund's assets are primarily held in US dollars, the ETF's objective is to reflect the performance of Bitcoin's price. 


The structure of holding mostly cash is likely due to the nature of how this Bitcoin ETF operates. Rather than holding Bitcoin directly, it may use financial instruments or contracts to achieve exposure to Bitcoin's price movements while maintaining its assets in a more liquid form.


This composition aligns with the fund's investment objective, which is to seek to reflect generally the performance of the price of Bitcoin[5]. The cash holdings allow the fund to manage liquidity and facilitate the creation and redemption process typical of ETFs, while still providing investors with exposure to Bitcoin's price movements.

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Top Crypto Choices on Robinhood

 Based on the available information, here are some of the best cryptocurrency options to consider trading on Robinhood:


## Top Crypto Choices on Robinhood


1. Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH)

While not technically "altcoins," Bitcoin and Ethereum remain the two largest and most established cryptocurrencies. They are available on Robinhood and are generally considered core holdings for many crypto investors[1][5].


2. Litecoin (LTC)

Litecoin is often referred to as the "silver to Bitcoin's gold" and has been around since 2011. It's one of the more established altcoins available on Robinhood[1].


3. Avalanche (AVAX)

Avalanche has gained attention due to its partnerships with major companies like Amazon. It's seen as having real-world utility and potential for growth[1].


4. Dogecoin (DOGE)

While started as a meme coin, Dogecoin has gained significant popularity and is available on Robinhood. Its status as a proof-of-work (PoW) cryptocurrency may make it less likely to face regulatory scrutiny[1][5].


5. Chainlink (LINK)

Chainlink is available on Robinhood and is known for its oracle network that provides real-world data to blockchain applications[3].


## Considerations


- **Diversity**: Robinhood offers over 15 cryptocurrencies for trading, allowing for a diverse portfolio[2].

- **Low Costs**: Robinhood is known for its zero-commission trading structure, which applies to crypto as well[2][4].

- **Ease of Use**: The platform allows you to buy fractional shares of crypto with as little as $1, making it accessible for beginners[2].


## Caution


It's important to note that many users in the cryptocurrency community advise against using Robinhood for crypto trading, citing concerns about ownership and control of the actual coins[1]. Consider researching self-custody options and other platforms that allow direct ownership and transfer of cryptocurrencies.


Remember, cryptocurrency investments can be highly volatile and risky. Always conduct thorough research and consider your risk tolerance before investing.


Citations:

[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/CryptoCurrency/comments/145xye7/which_alt_coins_left_on_robinhood_would_you_buy/

[2] https://www.newsweek.com/vault/investing/invest-in-crypto-with-robinhood/

[3] https://robinhood.com/eu/en/about/crypto/

[4] https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/no-commission-crypto/

[5] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/top-10-cryptocurrencies/

[6] https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/best-crypto-top-cryptocurrencies

[7] https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/cardano-polygon-solana-update/

[8] https://robinhood.com/eu/en/support/articles/crypto-buying-and-selling/

Saturday, November 9, 2024

ALAB: Worth noticing.

"My rating for ALAB -0.33%↓ is “imminent violent sinusoid”.

No idea what the amplitude or frequency of the sinusoid will be, but this ticker is definitely going way down because of Grace-Blackwell then will recover later because of Trainium/Inferentia." - From

https://irrationalanalysis.substack.com/p/astera-labs-impending-revenue-implosion


With Zero Outflows from institutions and only buying in Q1 / Q3, this one is all primed for take off

All Top names with hands in the cookie jar:

Top Institutional Holders

HolderSharesDate Reported% OutValue
FMR, LLC23.35MJun 30, 202414.72%2,318,709,388
Intel Corporation5.9MJun 30, 20243.72%586,194,629
Atreides Management, LP2.78MJun 30, 20241.75%275,689,478
Vanguard Group Inc2MJun 30, 20241.26%198,976,849
Blackrock Inc.1.49MJun 30, 20240.94%147,918,178
Invesco Ltd.1.44MJun 30, 20240.91%143,153,168
JP Morgan Chase & Company1.42MJun 30, 20240.90%141,079,982
Goldman Sachs Group Inc1.04MJun 30, 20240.65%103,041,031
Maverick Capital Ltd.996.75kJun 30, 20240.63%98,977,278
Summit Partners Public Asset Management LLC940.6kJun 30, 20240.59%93,401,682



 

Friday, November 8, 2024

Winning in the Stock Market, is not Just Finance, Its about Human Needs

 Anthropological perspectives on human needs and their evolution offer intriguing insights that can be applied to understanding stock market behavior and potentially identifying investment opportunities. This article explores the intersection of human needs, their growth over time, and how these concepts relate to stock market dynamics.

The Hierarchy of Human Needs

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs provides a foundational framework for understanding human motivations

1. Physiological needs (food, water, shelter)

2. Safety needs (security, stability)

3. Love and belonging (relationships, social connections)

4. Esteem (respect, status)

5. Self-actualization (personal growth, fulfillment)

As societies develop and basic needs are met, individuals and communities tend to focus on higher-level needs, leading to evolving consumer behaviors and market demands.

The Evolution of Human Needs

Human needs are not static; they grow and change over time due to various factors:

Technological Advancements: New technologies create novel needs and desires. For example, the rise of smartphones has generated demand for mobile apps, high-speed internet, and portable charging solutions.

Cultural Shifts: Changing social norms and values influence what people consider essential. The growing emphasis on sustainability has created new markets for eco-friendly products and services.

Globalization: Exposure to diverse cultures broadens consumer preferences and creates demand for international goods and experiences.

Demographic Changes: Aging populations in many developed countries have increased the need for healthcare services and retirement-related products.

Applying Anthropological Insights to Stock Market Analysis

Understanding the evolution of human needs can provide valuable insights for stock market investors:

1. Identifying Emerging Trends: By observing shifts in societal needs and values, investors can spot potential growth industries before they become mainstream.

2. Long-term Investment Strategies: Companies that address fundamental and evolving human needs are likely to have sustained demand, making them attractive for long-term investments.

3. Risk Assessment: Anthropological analysis can help investors gauge the potential longevity and societal acceptance of new products or services.

4. Market Segmentation: Understanding diverse needs across different cultures and demographics can inform international investment strategies.

5. Innovation Forecasting: By anticipating future needs based on current trends, investors can identify companies poised for innovation and growth.

Case Studies: Anthropology and Stock Market Success

Several examples illustrate how anthropological insights have translated into stock market gains:

Apple Inc.: By recognizing the growing need for user-friendly technology and seamless integration of devices into daily life, Apple has consistently outperformed market expectations[1].

Netflix: Identifying the shift in entertainment consumption patterns and the desire for on-demand content led to Netflix's remarkable growth and stock performance[2].

Beyond Meat: Capitalizing on the increasing societal focus on health and sustainability, Beyond Meat's stock saw significant gains following its IPO[3].

Challenges and Considerations

While anthropological analysis can provide valuable insights, it's important to consider:

- The complexity of human behavior and the difficulty in predicting societal shifts

- The potential for rapid changes in consumer preferences

- The influence of external factors such as economic conditions and regulatory environments

Conclusion

Integrating anthropological perspectives into stock market analysis offers a unique approach to understanding market dynamics and identifying investment opportunities. By closely observing the evolution of human needs and societal trends, investors can gain a competitive edge in predicting future market movements and making informed investment decisions.

As the global economy continues to evolve, the intersection of anthropology and finance will likely become an increasingly important area of study for both academics and market practitioners. Investors who can effectively leverage these insights may be well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and achieve long-term stock market gains.

It would be an interesting exercise to draw up a scoring system of many such factors (behavioral/anthropological) and realize a probabilistic determination of a set of stocks that have long term growth. 

Thanks for Reading.

Citations:

[1] https://scholar.harvard.edu/files/bestor/files/markets_bestor_0.pdf

[2] https://www.bibliovault.org/BV.landing.epl?ISBN=9780226360584

[3] https://live-sas-www-history.pantheon.sas.upenn.edu/publications/2016/marc-flandreau

[4] https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/lsereviewofbooks/2017/01/10/book-review-anthropologists-in-the-stock-exchange-a-financial-history-of-victorian-science-by-marc-flandreau/

[5] https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/A/bo23151198.html

[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_anthropology

[7] https://academic.oup.com/chicago-scholarship-online/book/17832/chapter-abstract/175601402?redirectedFrom=fulltext

[8] https://scholar.harvard.edu/bestor/publications/markets-anthropological-aspects