An interesting observation! For the month of August (through the 24th), the US major indices are down and, more surprisingly, almost every US sector or sub sector we follow (250 of them +/-) except for uranium (nuclear energy) are down for the month. Since we follow these indices daily to look for strength in the market, we find this trend (albeit short-term) disturbing. This could suggest that the perception of the strength of our economy on a broad-based basis is not positive (perhaps mimicking what some polls are reporting).
A healthy market will usually present opportunities in non-correlated areas. When the vast majority of consumer, industrial, raw materials and blended indices are marching together in a negative direction it implies that perhaps a greater tendency towards a defensive posture may be warranted. We saw a similar pattern heading into 2008 when most sectors of the equities, bond and commodities markets were all moving in the same direction (down). We shall continue to watch the sectors and hopefully see some areas of strength in the coming weeks.
Anyone Can Be A Genius Teaching Children in Today’s Challenging Education Environment
"Anyone can be a genius, if they pick just one specific subject and study it diligently just 15 minutes each day."-Albert Einstein
This week, I visited the Boeing Center at Tech Port (formerly Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio) to get a look at what is going on in this incubator of space and science technology. If you have youngsters in your world (children or grandchildren in the six to sixteen age range), you might want to look into what is going on out there. They have programs for youth to explore and experience the newest technology in hands-on fashion. I got there earlier than my group and found myself sitting in a completely operational flight simulator with full instrumentation and video effects.
The hands-on science and technology exhibits and exercises they have for young people introduces them to some of the highest levels of technology in the fields of cyber-security, avionics, physics and engineering (robotics) that one could imagine. They also have complete classroom courses in various disciplines.
It woke up the kid in me to see the simulators, satellite technology and other scientific demonstrations and problem-solving exercises that are offered. This is an educational opportunity that should be considered by everyone interested in a young person’s growth and development. It would probably replace some of the time spent on meaningless video games with some exciting and rewarding learning experiences.
In conclusion, it is a challenge in the current education environment to redirect, inspire and encourage young people to want to learn. I am convinced that on average, that we use about 20% of our brain capacity. The human brain has unlimited potential. The future of a young mind is totally dependent upon what our parents and teachers allow it to be fed and whether or not they are given the greatest amount of love and encouragement along the way. Choose their teachers wisely.