Mike Rivers' Blog Headline Animator

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Nobody really knows exactly what is going to happen

Despite my forecasts, I don't know exactly what's going to happen. And, neither does anyone else.

When I make forecasts about the future, they are mere probabilities--usually what I consider to be the highest probability outcome.

But, a probability is not the same as certainty.

In fact, a low probability event, like 9/11, can potentially blow all high probability outcomes out of the water!

It's important to acknowledge what I don't know, and the degree of uncertainty in any situation.

When I make investments, I don't know with certainty the outcome. In fact, the best I can do is assign probabilities to several outcomes and then take action based on such assessments.

But, investing is fraught with uncertainty. The economy is too complex for any one person to know exactly what will happen.

The way to make money over time is to formulate probabilities and outcomes with enough accuracy to get things generally right. That's all it takes, but it's not easy.

The economy appears to be entering a recession. I think that is a high probability at this point, but that doesn't mean it's certain.

I think that if we enter a recession, there is a high probability the stock market will end up down much further than it is now. Once again, my high probability assessment--not certainty.

I acknowledge that I don't know what will happen, and have invested accordingly. My goal is to make good returns regardless of whether or not we enter a recession. I've picked investments that I have assessed to be good for the long run. That's the best anyone can do.

Those who just guess and bet big don't remain in the game for long, unless they get blind lucky.

Stick to long term thinking, prepare for the worst and hope for the best, invest so that you'll do well regardless of short term outcomes, and you'll do just fine.

Nothing in this blog should be considered investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. The opinions, estimates and projections contained herein are subject to change without notice. Information throughout this blog has been obtained from sources believed to be accurate and reliable, but such accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

2 comments:

moneythoughts said...

Hi Mike,

I was just checking out people interested in investing and came across your blog. I'm a retired portfolio manager.

I write and paint. Take a look at my blog, you might find it of interest. I write about several topics that I think you would find of interest.

Fred

Sean C said...

Nice post!

Keep on keepin' on:)