Perilous Times have Returned

The 60s and 70s were times of uncertainty. Situations such as the Cuban missile crisis, the Cold War, Vietnam War, and civil rights demonstrations were representative of political uncertainty. As a child, we routine did bomb shelter drills. The economic environment was just as uncertain with stock market malaise, super inflation, and businesses re-engineering.

The 80s and 90s brought change and seemingly more certainty. Under President Reagan the Soviet Empire dissolved and the Cold War was ended. Inflation also began to fall, and the biggest bull stock market began. Under President Clinton, economic and political prosperity continued. In the 90s, the major gains in the stock market occurred and the world had become a very safe place.

However, perilous times have returned in the 00s. Economic stability is no more after a tech stock market crash, a housing bubble, a financial crisis, and the worst bear market since the depression. People are extremely concerned as to whether the can keep their jobs. Politically, we are faced with more challenges than ever. The U.S has been at war since 2003, countries such as North Korea and Iran threaten with nuclear weapons, and terrorists threaten national security. Rounding out the uncertainty is the whether government policies will return the U.S. to economic strength or be the beginning of economic decline.

However, uncertainty can be helpful. In my opinion, certainty leads to complacency, and complacency leads to decline, both for corporations and countries. Uncertainty will cause people, companies and our country to rise to the occasion and be innovative and competitive once again. And that will bring on the next global economic advance and bull stock market.

Of that, I think I can be certain.

For more on New Beginnings, check back every Sunday for a new segment.

This is not financial or political advice. Please consult a professional advisor.

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