We build and consume retirement savings gradually. We gradually trade our human capital for pay. We gradually invest a portion of that pay. And, in the future, we gradually use what we accumulate to support ourselves as our human capital dwindles. This is the life-cycle of the average retirement account, which is all intuitive when…
The Itch for Action
We’ve certainly endured a wild ride in stocks over the last month or so – enough to make even the most steadfast investors queasy. If the market hasn’t made you nervous yet this year, you either live under a rock or are lying. During dramatic sell-offs, like what we’ve experienced so far in 2020, the…
Redundancy Prevents Catastrophe
It seems absurd that designing parachutes is just as complicated as making rockets. How could the time spent on a mostly nylon device come anywhere close to that spent on the towering cylinders we launch into outer space? It’s not from lack of effort either. We’ve spent more than 500 years tinkering with parachutes, from…
One-Way Doors
After last Sunday’s Chiefs-Patriots game, NFL referees took some heat for a call they made (what else is new). Officials incorrectly called N’Keal Harry out of bounds before he dove for the pylon on what would have been a crucial touchdown. I assure you that I have not lost any sleep over this call, as…
The Fundamental Law of Lifestyle Inflation
From 2008 to 2011, the Katy Freeway in Houston underwent a $2.8 billion makeover with one goal: reduce traffic. Upon completion, its widest stretch of roadway had been expanded to contain 26 lanes. But as many other metropolitan areas can attest to, one more lane rarely does the trick (see LA below). In the battle…
There Are No Bear Market Vaccines
More US adults believe in Santa Claus than the flu vaccine. Okay, I made that up, but sometimes it feels that way. Poll: Have you gotten your flu shot this year? — Vamp Capital ??♂️ (@RampCapitalLLC) October 24, 2019 Despite constant hand-wringing over its effectiveness, receiving a flu shot is the best way to lower…