I came across an insightful article by John Mauldin, one of the most widely followed newsletter authors in the investment world. As a student of the markets, I first stumbled upon his work more than 20 years ago, when “Thoughts from the Frontline” was one of the first free investment newsletters distributed via email. I…
Author: YH Wong
The boy who cried wolf
In the classic fable, the boy who cried wolf learns the hard way that lying destroys trust. In some versions, the wolf ends up enjoying a two-course meal, first the sheep, then the boy. Markets had their own “wolf moment” when Trump’s tariff threats sparked a mini-panic, sending stocks scattering like startled sheep. However, after…
You are fired?
Stocks rallied on news that President Trump would not be firing Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, news that came right after reports that he was seriously considering it. In typical market fashion, a negative was turned into a positive simply by walking it back, which is to say we ended up right where we started,…
Catching the crypto bus
Bitcoin is once again stealing the spotlight, smashing through fresh all-time highs this week and cruising past the USD120,000 mark, doubling in value since July 2024. It did take a quick nap overnight (classic bitcoin, never a dull moment) but sentiment remains strong heading into what could be a pivotal week for crypto. Every bitcoin…
No likes, no filters, just work that matters
I have never had an Instagram account. Even the Facebook profile I recently deleted was created a couple of years ago for a club registration I barely remember. TikTok? That was never part of my world. Unlike many in today’s hyper-edited world, I have never felt the urge to tweak my appearance with filters, apps,…
Survey Monday
Private equity has long been marketed as a source of uncorrelated returns, access to exclusive deals, and a powerful tool for portfolio diversification. With rising interest from retail and institutional investors alike, one question is becoming increasingly important: Is private equity still delivering on its promise, or has the buzz outpaced the fundamentals? I would…
More plot twists than a summer blockbuster
I’m doing my best to get better every day. Well, I have been reading more half-yearly economic and market reports than summer blockbusters. Frankly, some of these reports have just as much suspense, drama, and unexpected plot twists though with fewer explosions and better charts. Despite a steady drumbeat of geopolitical tension, looming tariff cliffs,…
Teamwork makes the dream work
Lately, I have been meeting with individuals who could be the right fit for our growing team specifically those who would rather spend their time engaging with people than wrestling with spreadsheets or market charts. In short, I’m looking for partners with natural communicators who enjoy prospecting and building relationships. The idea is simple. While…
Diversification is survival
As governments around the world spiral deeper into debt and inflation shifts from an economic glitch to an official policy tool, trust in fiat currencies is eroding at record speed. Central banks, once the guardians of monetary discipline, now seem more like overindulgent enablers of runaway spending. Their credibility? Fading fast. Over dinner recently, a…
A reflection on Guru Purnima
Guru Purnima is a sacred day in the Indian spiritual calendar, celebrated on the full moon of Ashadha (June–July). It is dedicated to expressing gratitude to the guru, the one who dispels darkness (gu = darkness, ru = remover) and guides us toward inner light. Across traditions, it marks a time for disciples to reflect,…