SVB and This Latest Round of Bank Failure

As of this writing, two U.S. banks have gone down: the Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank.  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has stepped in.  Under law, it guarantees all deposits up to $250,000, but it has decided to ensure that no depositor loses, regardless of the amount.  Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve (Fed) has set up a special … Continue reading SVB and This Latest Round of Bank Failure

A Time to Buy?

A reader recently noted that stocks generally have now fallen some 25 percent from their highs late last year.  He wants to know if this is “a good time to buy.” Before answering, I want to commend this reader.  He has a reasonable and historically verifiable confidence that the market will recover.  Many people, after a steep price … Continue reading A Time to Buy?

Beating Inflation

Every piece of inflation news has the power to terrify and send investors searching for ways to protect wealth.  Bonds look like a poor prospect.  As the Federal Reserve (Fed) raises interest rates, bonds will lose value simply as a matter or arithmetic.  (For an explanation see this post.)  Even if the Fed were to cease its counter-inflationary effort, … Continue reading Beating Inflation

China’s Baby Shortage and What It Means for You

China’s huge population  — 1.4 billion-plus –– often adds to American fears of Beijing’s military and economic potential.  Yes, China has a lot of people, but they’re aging fast and there is already a clear shortage of younger workers.  The country’s working-age population is set to fall in coming years, and, critically, it will face the economic burden … Continue reading China’s Baby Shortage and What It Means for You

The Last Great Inflation and What It Says About the Present One

With inflation now firmly in the headlines (and in our lives), a look back at the last experience with this menace may offer needed perspective.  Of course, history never repeats exactly, and there is no claim here that it will.  Nonetheless, a look back will provide ammunition to counter much of the nonsense appearing in the media … Continue reading The Last Great Inflation and What It Says About the Present One