Irrational Exuberance

k6779Robert J. Shiller

Shiller’s book presents yet another correct view of the issues that so many people refuse to confront. These are the very issues that cause people to lose. Perhaps, one day investors will begin to appreciate uncertainty as something that can be managed. If people refrained from being overconfident or indulging in their magical thinking and then started to manage uncertainty as Trend Followers do — there might actually be the risk of no more trends!

Is it likely? No. For trends to stop investors would need to realize that news, personal opinions, tips, etc. have no relevance to properly making a decision. Trend Following trading takes advantage of the psychological weaknesses that most people possess. Trend Followers disarm the magical thinkers by winning their losses in the great zero sum game.

Ponder the wisdom:

Everyone wants to be rich, but few want to work for it.