investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Recent Move In Gold & Silver Suggesting Price Collapse? What About The Rest Of 2020 and 2021?

by Chris Vermeulen of The Technical Traders • Uncertainty and cycle events will likely lead to continued Gold and Silver price appreciation until the cycle events end ( likely in 2024 or 2025 ) .
• The gold/silver ratio chart shows very clear levels of support and resistance .
With the next targets $ 2,000- $ 2,250 , $ 3,200 then $ 5,500+ .
• Extended basing may continue for the next 2 to 4+ months .
I have received many comments and questions related to our Gold and Precious Metals predictions originating from research posts we have made recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Part 1 of a two-part series , which will revisit some of our past forecasts and showcase what my research team and I believe will be the most likely outcome for Gold as we push through the end of 2020 and into early 2021 .
I will be referencing two of my team ’ s earlier research articles in this follow-up article .
Our June 2020 article entitled All That Glitters When the World Jitters is Probably Gold put forth a bold prediction that the spike in the Gold to Silver ration during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then collapse lower , resulting in a strong upside move for both Gold and Silver .
In August 2020 , our next piece of related research , Detailed 2020/2021 Price Forecasts for Gold & Silver , suggested detailed “ 100 % Measured Moves ” would continue to drive Gold and Silver prices higher in block-like advances until a true parabolic upside rally broke away from these 100 % Measured Move price events .
The chart below from the August research article highlights how our predictions translated into reality as the spike in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the March 20 , 2020 bottom , then executed a series of 100 % Measured Moves resulting in a deeper price breakdown in the Gold to Silver ratio chart .
It also highlights the future expectations as of August 2020 – where we suggested a more moderate sideways decline in the ratio would likely take place resulting in more moderate measured moves lower .
There are a number of factors related to precious metals and the fragility of the global markets in the current market environment .
To this end , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggesting the major Super Cycles are aligning in a way that suggests we may experience 3 to 5+ years of very odd price cycles .
This is something that we have not seen in well over 75 years .
We are also in an election year cycle .
Please review the following articles for more information on the cycle events that are currently playing out .
What does all of this mean for Precious Metals ?
It means the uncertainty and cycle events will likely lead to continued Gold and Silver price appreciation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2024 or 2025 ) .
Below , we will share our thinking related to the future price actions in Gold , and how the Gold to Silver ratio will react over the next 6 to 12+ months , to help you better understand the opportunity we believe will continue to persist in Precious Metals for some time to come .
Be sure to sign up for our free market trend analysis and signals now so you don ’ t miss our next special report !
The recent downside price move in Gold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price collapse in Precious Metals .
As the markets have fallen over the past 2 to 3+ weeks , Gold and Silver fell from support levels and set up a moderately deep price low , similar to what happened when COVID-19 took hold .
My research team believes this downside “ washout ” is the same type of reactive price move as we saw in February/March 2020 when the broad US and global markets collapsed .
We see a deep washout low price rotation well below reasonable support levels .
Although it may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gold to Silver ratio chart below , the right side of the chart shows the recent upward spike in the ratio ( follow the END of the BLUE LINE ) .
Because of the current rally in both Gold and Silver followed by the recent moderate downside price move in metals , the Gold to Silver ratio has yet to spike above the SUPPORT level on this chart .
What happened back in March 2020 , after the COVID-19 collapse was that Gold rallied back to near recent high levels while Silver languished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what caused the spike in the Gold to Silver ratio .
Currently , both Gold and Silver have collapsed nearly equally , resulting in a more moderate spike in the Gold to Silver ratio .
We believe the SUPPORT level on this chart will act as a ceiling for the ratio going forward .
We believe the two downside RESISTANCE levels will become the next targets for Gold .
The $ 2000 to $ 2250 level is very clearly the next upside price target .
Once this level is reached , then we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 3200 or higher .
Ultimately , the $ 5500 level is on our radar as an eventual parabolic price trend takes place ( this may be well into 2022 or later ) .
Our research suggests a new BASE is setting up in the US stock market and in Gold and Silver .
This new base may become the future launch pad for a very big price move higher .
Our researchers believe this new basing pattern will start to complete near the middle/end of 2021 ( possibly extending into early 2022 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price action in the US stock market and precious metals to better determine where and when this incredible setup initiates the next big upside price move .
We believe extended basing may continue for the next 2 to 4+ months in the US stock market and precious metals .
This does not mean that precious metals will trade sideways – it is very likely that metals may continue to push higher from the current base levels .
We believe this new basing pattern will prompt a big upside move eventually , but right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more moderate and prompt more of an upside “ drift ” in metals .
In Part II of this research post , we ’ ll highlight more of our expectations and attempt to highlight the new FUTURE BASE that is setting up in the US stock market and precious metals .
As a technical analyst and trader since 1997 , I have been through a few bull/bear market cycles in stocks and commodities .
I believe I have a good pulse on the market and timing key turning points for investing and short-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ETF Swing Trading Newsletter can ride my coattails as I navigate these financial markets and build wealth .
My research and trading team are here to help you find better trades and navigate these incredibly crazy market trends .
While most of us have active trading accounts , our long-term investment and retirement accounts are equally at risk .
We can also help you preserve and even grow your long term capital when things get ugly ( likely now ) with our Passive Long-Term ETF Investing Signals .
Don ’ t wait until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER : Our free research does not constitute a trade recommendation or solicitation for our readers to take any action regarding this research .
It is provided for educational purposes only – read our FULL DISCLAIMER here .
Visit www.thetechnicaltraders.com to learn how to take advantage of our members-only research and trading signals .

by Chris Vermeulen of The Technical Traders
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS:
Uncertainty and cycle events will likely lead to continued Gold and Silver price appreciation until the cycle events end (likely in 2024 or 2025).
The gold/silver ratio chart shows very clear levels of support and resistance. With the next targets $2,000-$2,250, $3,200 then $5,500+.
Extended basing may continue for the next 2 to 4+ months.
I have received many comments and questions related to our Gold and Precious Metals predictions originating from research posts we have made recently. Today’s research article is Part 1 of a two-part series, which will revisit some of our past forecasts and showcase what my research team and I believe will be the most likely outcome for Gold as we push through the end of 2020 and into early 2021.
A CONFLUENCE OF TECHNICAL AND CYCLE PATTERNS CONVERGE
I will be referencing two of my team’s earlier research articles in this follow-up article. Our June 2020 article entitled All That Glitters When the World Jitters is Probably Gold put forth a bold prediction that the spike in the Gold to Silver ration during COVID-19 would collapse into a Flag formation, then collapse lower, resulting in a strong upside move for both Gold and Silver. In August 2020, our next piece of related research, Detailed 2020/2021 Price Forecasts for Gold & Silver, suggested detailed “100% Measured Moves” would continue to drive Gold and Silver prices higher in block-like advances until a true parabolic upside rally broke away from these 100% Measured Move price events.
The chart below from the August research article highlights how our predictions translated into reality as the spike in the Gold to Silver ratio broke lower after the March 20, 2020 bottom, then executed a series of 100% Measured Moves resulting in a deeper price breakdown in the Gold to Silver ratio chart. It also highlights the future expectations as of August 2020 – where we suggested a more moderate sideways decline in the ratio would likely take place resulting in more moderate measured moves lower.
There are a number of factors related to precious metals and the fragility of the global markets in the current market environment. To this end, we have also recently posted a research article suggesting the major Super Cycles are aligning in a way that suggests we may experience 3 to 5+ years of very odd price cycles. This is something that we have not seen in well over 75 years. We are also in an election year cycle. Please review the following articles for more information on the cycle events that are currently playing out.
April 2, 2020: STOCKS HAVE ENTERED A 25-35 YEAR CRISIS CYCLE RE-EVALUATION EVENT
June 1, 2020: ELECTION YEAR CYCLES – WHAT TO EXPECT?
What does all of this mean for Precious Metals? It means the uncertainty and cycle events will likely lead to continued Gold and Silver price appreciation until the cycle events end (likely in 2024 or 2025). Below, we will share our thinking related to the future price actions in Gold, and how the Gold to Silver ratio will react over the next 6 to 12+ months, to help you better understand the opportunity we believe will continue to persist in Precious Metals for some time to come.
Be sure to sign up for our free market trend analysis and signals now so you don’t miss our next special report!
The recent downside price move in Gold and Silver is suggestive of the COVID-19 price collapse in Precious Metals. As the markets have fallen over the past 2 to 3+ weeks, Gold and Silver fell from support levels and set up a moderately deep price low , similar to what happened when COVID-19 took hold. My research team believes this downside “washout” is the same type of reactive price move as we saw in February/March 2020 when the broad US and global markets collapsed. We see a deep washout low price rotation well below reasonable support levels.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
Although it may be difficult to see on the Monthly Gold to Silver ratio chart below, the right side of the chart shows the recent upward spike in the ratio (follow the END of the BLUE LINE). Because of the current rally in both Gold and Silver followed by the recent moderate downside price move in metals, the Gold to Silver ratio has yet to spike above the SUPPORT level on this chart. What happened back in March 2020, after the COVID-19 collapse was that Gold rallied back to near recent high levels while Silver languished near low price levels – that is what caused the spike in the Gold to Silver ratio.
Currently, both Gold and Silver have collapsed nearly equally, resulting in a more moderate spike in the Gold to Silver ratio. We believe the SUPPORT level on this chart will act as a ceiling for the ratio going forward. We believe the two downside RESISTANCE levels will become the next targets for Gold. The $2000 to $2250 level is very clearly the next upside price target. Once this level is reached, then we believe Gold will attempt to move to $3200 or higher. Ultimately, the $5500 level is on our radar as an eventual parabolic price trend takes place (this may be well into 2022 or later).
Our research suggests a new BASE is setting up in the US stock market and in Gold and Silver. This new base may become the future launch pad for a very big price move higher. Our researchers believe this new basing pattern will start to complete near the middle/end of 2021 (possibly extending into early 2022). We are watching the current price action in the US stock market and precious metals to better determine where and when this incredible setup initiates the next big upside price move.
We believe extended basing may continue for the next 2 to 4+ months in the US stock market and precious metals. This does not mean that precious metals will trade sideways – it is very likely that metals may continue to push higher from the current base levels. We believe this new basing pattern will prompt a big upside move eventually, but right now we believe the moves to be more moderate and prompt more of an upside “drift” in metals.
In Part II of this research post, we’ll highlight more of our expectations and attempt to highlight the new FUTURE BASE that is setting up in the US stock market and precious metals.
As a technical analyst and trader since 1997, I have been through a few bull/bear market cycles in stocks and commodities. I believe I have a good pulse on the market and timing key turning points for investing and short-term swing traders. Subscribers of my Active ETF Swing Trading Newsletter can ride my coattails as I navigate these financial markets and build wealth. My research and trading team are here to help you find better trades and navigate these incredibly crazy market trends.
While most of us have active trading accounts, our long-term investment and retirement accounts are equally at risk. We can also help you preserve and even grow your long term capital when things get ugly (likely now) with our Passive Long-Term ETF Investing Signals. Don’t wait until it is too late – subscribe today!
Have a good week!
Chris Vermeulen
Chief Market Strategies
Founder of Technical Traders Ltd.
NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: Our free research does not constitute a trade recommendation or solicitation for our readers to take any action regarding this research. It is provided for educational purposes only – read our FULL DISCLAIMER here. Visit www.thetechnicaltraders.com to learn how to take advantage of our members-only research and trading signals.


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--P/E Ratio of the US Market Is Still Very High, Even Despite Others Have Better EPS Over Time

According to Michael A. Gayed , US stocks trade at a premium relative to the rest of the markets , @ @ @ @ @ earnings per share ( EPS ) .
The analysis is carried out based on the @ @ @ @ @ ratio is the measurement for valuing a company .
It compares the current share price @ @ @ @ @ The higher the ratio , the longer the investment in the company will pay off @ @ @ @ @ for comparing companies , industries , or even entire stock markets .

by Peter Smith
European and Asian markets offer better EPS over time, but investors sticks with the US.
Image Source: Twitter @leadlagreport
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
US Market Is Still Trade at a Premium
Apparently, investors prefer the relative stability of the US market to large potential returns from European and Asian exchanges.
According to Michael A. Gayed, US stocks trade at a premium relative to the rest of the markets, even if they offer higher earnings per share (EPS). What Is P/E Ratio? The analysis is carried out based on the P/E indicator. The Price-to-earnings ratio is the measurement for valuing a company. It compares the current share price with its per-share earnings. The higher the ratio, the longer the investment in the company will pay off. The indicator is suitable for comparing companies, industries, or even entire stock markets.


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--CDC Comes Clean: New Fatality Rate Is A Shocker!

by Daniel McAdams and Ron Paul of Ron Paul Liberty Report The Centers for Disease Control have come out with @ @ @ @ @ Covid infection fatality ratio and the numbers will shock you .
No wonder the Florida @ @ @ @ @ is enough ” and decided to open his state up completely .
We are told @ @ @ @ @ so why is the mainstream media ignoring this very important news ?
Is this still @ @ @ @ @ politics ?
Please keep the Ron Paul Liberty Report on-air and bringing the truth by @ @ @ @ @ the Ron Paul Institute : www.RonPaulInstitute.org/support

by Daniel McAdams and Ron Paul of Ron Paul Liberty Report
The Centers for Disease Control have come out with a new estimate of the Covid infection fatality ratio and the numbers will shock you. No wonder the Florida governor has said “enough is enough” and decided to open his state up completely. We are told to trust the CDC, so why is the mainstream media ignoring this very important news? Is this still about a disease…or is it politics?
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
Please keep the Ron Paul Liberty Report on-air and bringing the truth by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Ron Paul Institute: www.RonPaulInstitute.org/support


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Apple (AAPL), Amazon (AMZN), Microsoft (MSFT) and Alphabet (GOOGLE) Combined Market Cap Is Now Equal

Apple (AAPL), Amazon (AMZN), Microsoft (MSFT) and Alphabet (GOOGLE) Combined Market Cap Is Now Equal to 42% of Nasdaq 100 (NDX)

Tech giants continue their expansion into the Nasdaq 100 Index , and six companies altogether account for almost 50 % of the capitalization .
According to Jeroen Blokland , the head of the Robeco multi-asset fund , only four technology companies now account for 42 % of the Nasdaq 100 ’ s capitalization .
These companies are mastodons such as Apple , Amazon , Microsoft and Alphabet , the parent company of Google .
50 % of the Index Capitalization for 6 Companies ?
Easy Other companies worth mentioning are Facebook and Tesla .
However , they total only 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is less than any of the four giants .
However , in total , all 6 companies make up 49 % of the Nasdaq 100 ’ s capitalization , the same as the other 94 companies represented in the index .
The correction dealt serious blows to the capitalizations of the giants .
Thus , Amazon lost about 10 % from the highs of early September .
Apple and Alphabet both declined more , shedding 15 % of all-time highs .
Microsoft shares were the most resilient , falling “ only ” by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of August , when the split between Tesla and Apple shares took place , their shares , with the support of Amazon , managed to raise the Nasdaq 100 by 1 % .
Even more remarkable is the fact that the other 97 companies were on the contrary falling at this time , but this could not prevent the pressure of the three tech giants .
Despite the ongoing correction , which turned out to be the most rapid in recent years , historical data shows that this can lead to large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to a rapid increase over the next 6 months , according to the historical data .

by Usman Salis
Tech giants continue their expansion into the Nasdaq 100 Index, and six companies altogether account for almost 50% of the capitalization.
Tech stocks have always been strong in the index, but in 2020 this imbalance has reached unprecedented proportions.
According to Jeroen Blokland, the head of the Robeco multi-asset fund, only four technology companies now account for 42% of the Nasdaq 100’s capitalization. These companies are mastodons such as Apple, Amazon, Microsoft and Alphabet, the parent company of Google. We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
#Apple, #Microsoft, #Amazon and #Alphabet (#Google) make up 42% of the #NASDAQ 100 Index!Jeroen Blokland via Twitter
Image Source: Twitter @jsblokland
50% of the Index Capitalization for 6 Companies? Easy
Other companies worth mentioning are Facebook and Tesla. However, they total only 6% of the index capitalization, which is less than any of the four giants. However, in total, all 6 companies make up 49% of the Nasdaq 100’s capitalization, the same as the other 94 companies represented in the index.
The correction dealt serious blows to the capitalizations of the giants. Thus, Amazon lost about 10% from the highs of early September. Apple and Alphabet both declined more, shedding 15% of all-time highs. Microsoft shares were the most resilient, falling “only” by 9%.
Image Source: Google Finance AAPL
Recent History of Mighty Techs
Recall that at the end of August, when the split between Tesla and Apple shares took place, their shares, with the support of Amazon, managed to raise the Nasdaq 100 by 1%. Even more remarkable is the fact that the other 97 companies were on the contrary falling at this time, but this could not prevent the pressure of the three tech giants.
Despite the ongoing correction, which turned out to be the most rapid in recent years, historical data shows that this can lead to large gains, as almost all fast corrections led to a rapid increase over the next 6 months, according to the historical data.


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Massive Cyber Attack Hits Major US Hospital System, One of The Largest In History!

A major hospital chain has been hit by what appears to be one of the largest medical cyberattacks in United @ @ @

A major hospital chain has been hit by what appears to be one of the largest medical cyberattacks in United States history.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--The Volume of Short Positions in the Shanghai Composite Index (SHA:000001) Hits All-Time High at ¥80

The Volume of Short Positions in the Shanghai Composite Index (SHA:000001) Hits All-Time High at ¥80 Billion Following the S&P 500 (SPX)

Throughout 2020 , the number of short sellers on the Chinese market has been growing and has now reached its @ @ @ @ @ investors are betting on the imminent fall of the Chinese market .
Shanghai Composite Index @ @ @ @ @ yuan , according to Michael A. Gayed .
The Chinese index has not yet seen @ @ @ @ @ short positions .
What Assets Are Included in the Shanghai Composite ?
The Shanghai Composite @ @ @ @ @ the Chinese stock exchange .
To a certain extent , it can be considered an @ @ @ @ @ index in the United States , which includes the shares of all 3.5 thousand companies @ @ @ @ @ US Shortlist Is Active Too Meanwhile , on the US market , the number of @ @ @ @ @ speculative hedge funds rose to a multi-year high despite the fact that the correction of @ @ @ @ @ does not appear to be significant yet .

by Saad Ullah
Throughout 2020, the number of short sellers on the Chinese market has been growing and has now reached its peak.
More and more investors are betting on the imminent fall of the Chinese market. Shanghai Composite Index short positions exceeded 80 billion yuan, according to Michael A. Gayed. The Chinese index has not yet seen such a volume of open short positions. We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
What Assets Are Included in the Shanghai Composite?
The Shanghai Composite includes all shares listed on the Chinese stock exchange. To a certain extent, it can be considered an analogue of the Russell 5000 index in the United States, which includes the shares of all 3.5 thousand companies on the US market.
US Shortlist Is Active Too
Meanwhile, on the US market, the number of short positions taken by large speculative hedge funds rose to a multi-year high despite the fact that the correction of the S&P 500 does not appear to be significant yet.


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Australia, India and Japan form Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) to reduce dependency on Ch

Australia, India and Japan form Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) to reduce dependency on China

( Natural News ) As the year 2020 is nearing its end , many countries are still struggling to recover while the Wuhan coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) pandemic continues to spread across the globe .
Yet as nations scramble to provide affordable supplies to citizens , many countries remain economically dependent on China .
To address this , experts have reported that Australia , India and Japan are setting up a new global supply network .
The three countries are also discussing an initiative called the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative ( SCRI ) to dial back its reliance on China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Times , Satoru Nagao , a visiting fellow at Hudson Institute and an expert on India-US-Japan security cooperation , explained that SCRI was formed because of “ the emerging geopolitics in the post-coronavirus world.
” “ This cooperation is well-related to current U.S. policy toward China , ” said Nagao .
He added that Washington stands to benefit if Beijing is unable to acquire the wealth it needs to expedite the modernization of its already powerful military .
Not much is known about Australia , India and Japan ’ s plans for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have asked not to be identified since they ’ re unauthorized to speak to the media about internal discussions .
An Australian official declined to confirm the talks .
Meanwhile , some say that India ’ s government is “ considering the plan.
” The latter will soon make a decision about participating in the international initiative .
It ’ s worth noting that the talks on the SCRI are currently at the working level .
However , Japan wishes to bring them to “ a higher level at some point.
” In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some companies that rely on the Chinese supply chain to shift or expand in Japan or Southeast Asian countries .
To date , about 87 firms are taking part in the program that will pay out ¥243.5 billion ( $ 2.3 billion ) .
Pratik Dattani , an adviser to Bridge India , a London-based think tank , and managing director of Economic Policy Group , explained that the SCRI is a “ bold policy announcement ” and that the global community must first have “ an operational clarity ” about the initiative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former U.K. head of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry ( FICCI ) , suggested that while India “ has traditionally prided itself on its non-alignment , ” the move to join the SCRI is a bold one that hints at future changes in the country .
Dattani added that the three countries involved in the SCRI have already developed closer relationships in maritime security through the Quad ( the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue ) and the initiative can be considered one step in the “ natural evolution of the policy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a strategic forum made up of the United States , Australia , India and Japan .
According to experts , the coronavirus pandemic raised serious questions about China ’ s credibility as a supplier , but there are other factors that were considered before the SCRI was formed .
The three countries also examined their deteriorating trade and diplomatic relationships with China .
China ’ s global influence is linked to its wealth , along with its loans to small countries that are now in debt to China , suggested Nagao .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ investments , are reluctant to publicly criticize Beijing , even after its violation of international rules .
Because of this , America might focus on “ trade wars , economic sanctions , or other means ” to try and weaken China economically .
Nagao thinks Australia , India and Japan can respond by weaning themselves off of their economic dependence on China .
It ’ s unavoidable and the three countries must plan ahead to “ avoid becoming passengers on a sinking ship.
” Xi Jinping , President of the People ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blunders this year .
There was a border conflict with India in Galwan , another in Hong Kong and other areas due to aggressive tactics , shared Dattani .
He said that with the whole world in a precarious situation , “ humility and global cooperation would have better achieved China ’ s foreign policy objectives.
” Instead , China ’ s hostile actions have quickly soured relationships with some of the largest economies in the world .
Australia , India and Japan have already started to reduce dependency on China .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s order from China to others will be a hard undertaking , said experts .
As Japan ’ s top trading partner , America makes up almost 20 percent of the total Japanese export .
Even though China isn ’ t a top trading partner in the country , it ’ s still considered a significant one , following the U.S. at 19 percent .
( Related : Pompeo : Time for free world to stand up to China and change its behavior . )
The situation is similar in India .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ India ’ s top trading partner .
However , China was India ’ s top trading partner from 2013 to 2017 .
China is still one of India ’ s biggest trading partners .
The situation is more serious in Australia .
China ranks first , dominating 30 to 40 percent of the total .
While Japan is second for Australia , it ’ s only one-third of China .
According to Bibhu Prasad Routray , an Indian geopolitical analyst and the director of Mantraya , a Goa-based think tank , Australia , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become independent will take a lot of time .
In a written message , Routray detailed that this will only be possible if the participating countries can attract investors , particularly India .
Unfortunately , New Delhi ’ s record hasn ’ t always been promising due to “ [ tax ] laws , absence of reforms , lack of infrastructure , etc.
” that forced investors to consider other countries .
For the SCRI to reach its goal , these issues must first be addressed .
At the virtual meeting of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commented that the cost of supply networks “ shouldn ’ t be the only factor , ” hinting at the questionable process of Chinese supply chains .
Qualities like affordability , policy stability , reliability and trust should also be considered .
Modi concluded that India has all of these qualities .
Like Japan lending aid to 87 firms , India changed its rules in April 2020 .
Now , foreign direct investment from countries that India shares a land border with requires prior approval , commented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China ?
Dattani believes the goal of the policy isn ’ t to build a supply chain overnight but to resist Chinese aggression .
There ’ s no denying that China is India ’ s largest trading partner and that switching to other countries isn ’ t practical .
News about the SCRI should be a wake-up call to China , which needs to revise “ some of its less benign policy decisions of recent times ” to restore normalcy in international relations .
Dattani thinks reports about the SCRI is a coping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly since they all feel threatened by China and collaborating gives them a better fighting chance .
But not everyone is hopeful .
Economic development in the Indo-Pacific could suffer great losses if the SCRI doesn ’ t work , warns Nagao .
The SCRI is only one of many efforts to break free from Chinese dominance , and the coronavirus pandemic has also crippled the economy .
Now is the perfect time to improve the whole structure of the economy and supply chain .

by: Zoey Sky
(Natural News) As the year 2020 is nearing its end, many countries are still struggling to recover while the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread across the globe. Yet as nations scramble to provide affordable supplies to citizens, many countries remain economically dependent on China.
To address this, experts have reported that Australia, India and Japan are setting up a new global supply network. The three countries are also discussing an initiative called the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) to dial back its reliance on China.
Adapting to a post-pandemic world
In an email to The Epoch Times, Satoru Nagao, a visiting fellow at Hudson Institute and an expert on India-US-Japan security cooperation, explained that SCRI was formed because of “the emerging geopolitics in the post-coronavirus world.”
“This cooperation is well-related to current U.S. policy toward China,” said Nagao. He added that Washington stands to benefit if Beijing is unable to acquire the wealth it needs to expedite the modernization of its already powerful military.
Not much is known about Australia, India and Japan’s plans for the SCRI, and those who discussed it have asked not to be identified since they’re unauthorized to speak to the media about internal discussions.
An Australian official declined to confirm the talks. Meanwhile, some say that India’s government is “considering the plan.” The latter will soon make a decision about participating in the international initiative.
It’s worth noting that the talks on the SCRI are currently at the working level. However, Japan wishes to bring them to “a higher level at some point.”
In Japan, the government is currently subsidizing some companies that rely on the Chinese supply chain to shift or expand in Japan or Southeast Asian countries. To date, about 87 firms are taking part in the program that will pay out ¥243.5 billion ($2.3 billion).
The Quad’s future plans
Pratik Dattani, an adviser to Bridge India, a London-based think tank, and managing director of Economic Policy Group, explained that the SCRI is a “bold policy announcement” and that the global community must first have “an operational clarity” about the initiative.
Dattani, who was also the former U.K. head of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), suggested that while India “has traditionally prided itself on its non-alignment,” the move to join the SCRI is a bold one that hints at future changes in the country.
Dattani added that the three countries involved in the SCRI have already developed closer relationships in maritime security through the Quad (the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and the initiative can be considered one step in the “natural evolution of the policy into the economic arena.”
The Quad is a strategic forum made up of the United States, Australia, India and Japan.
According to experts, the coronavirus pandemic raised serious questions about China’s credibility as a supplier, but there are other factors that were considered before the SCRI was formed. The three countries also examined their deteriorating trade and diplomatic relationships with China.
China’s global influence is linked to its wealth, along with its loans to small countries that are now in debt to China, suggested Nagao. These countries, which also have Chinese investments, are reluctant to publicly criticize Beijing, even after its violation of international rules.
Because of this, America might focus on “trade wars, economic sanctions, or other means” to try and weaken China economically.
Nagao thinks Australia, India and Japan can respond by weaning themselves off of their economic dependence on China. It’s unavoidable and the three countries must plan ahead to “avoid becoming passengers on a sinking ship.”
Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, made several strategic blunders this year. There was a border conflict with India in Galwan, another in Hong Kong and other areas due to aggressive tactics, shared Dattani.
He said that with the whole world in a precarious situation, “humility and global cooperation would have better achieved China’s foreign policy objectives.” Instead, China’s hostile actions have quickly soured relationships with some of the largest economies in the world.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
Difficult, but not impossible
Australia, India and Japan have already started to reduce dependency on China. However, shifting the entire supply chain’s order from China to others will be a hard undertaking, said experts.
As Japan’s top trading partner, America makes up almost 20 percent of the total Japanese export. Even though China isn’t a top trading partner in the country, it’s still considered a significant one, following the U.S. at 19 percent. (Related: Pompeo: Time for free world to stand up to China and change its behavior.)
The situation is similar in India. In 2018, America finally beat China as India’s top trading partner. However, China was India’s top trading partner from 2013 to 2017. China is still one of India’s biggest trading partners.
The situation is more serious in Australia. China ranks first, dominating 30 to 40 percent of the total. While Japan is second for Australia, it’s only one-third of China.
According to Bibhu Prasad Routray, an Indian geopolitical analyst and the director of Mantraya, a Goa-based think tank, Australia, India and Japan’s goal to become independent will take a lot of time.
In a written message, Routray detailed that this will only be possible if the participating countries can attract investors, particularly India.
Unfortunately, New Delhi’s record hasn’t always been promising due to “[tax] laws, absence of reforms, lack of infrastructure, etc.” that forced investors to consider other countries. For the SCRI to reach its goal, these issues must first be addressed.
At the virtual meeting of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum on Sep. 3, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commented that the cost of supply networks “shouldn’t be the only factor,” hinting at the questionable process of Chinese supply chains.
Qualities like affordability, policy stability, reliability and trust should also be considered. Modi concluded that India has all of these qualities.
Like Japan lending aid to 87 firms, India changed its rules in April 2020. Now, foreign direct investment from countries that India shares a land border with requires prior approval, commented Nagao.
How will the SCRI affect China?
Dattani believes the goal of the policy isn’t to build a supply chain overnight but to resist Chinese aggression.
There’s no denying that China is India’s largest trading partner and that switching to other countries isn’t practical. News about the SCRI should be a wake-up call to China, which needs to revise “some of its less benign policy decisions of recent times” to restore normalcy in international relations.
Dattani thinks reports about the SCRI is a coping mechanism for the three countries involved, particularly since they all feel threatened by China and collaborating gives them a better fighting chance.
But not everyone is hopeful.
Economic development in the Indo-Pacific could suffer great losses if the SCRI doesn’t work, warns Nagao.
The SCRI is only one of many efforts to break free from Chinese dominance, and the coronavirus pandemic has also crippled the economy. Now is the perfect time to improve the whole structure of the economy and supply chain.
Sources include:
TheEpochTimes.com
JapanTimes.co.jp


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--California judge says Trump can’t ban WeChat because of the First Amendment, but Big Tech is never s

California judge says Trump can’t ban WeChat because of the First Amendment, but Big Tech is never stopped from censoring Americans

( Natural News ) An effort by President Trump to ban the “ WeChat ” app from American smartphones has failed after U.S. Magistrate Judge Laurel Beeler of San Francisco decided that restricting the Chinese-owned app would violate the First Amendment .
Regardless of the fact that WeChat poses a national security threat , much in the same way as TikTok , Beeler claims that the app has free speech rights that must be protected .
In her ruling , Beeler wrote that WeChat , a product of the Chinese Communist Party ( CCP ) , “ serves as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chinese-American community in the United States and is ( as a practical matter ) their ( sic ) only means of communication.
” Beeler added that banning WeChat “ forecloses meaningful access to communication in their community and thereby operates as a prior restraint on their right to free speech.
” Failing to explain how or why Chinese people in the U.S. somehow can not use other modes of smartphone communication , Beeler went on to reveal her political bias by declaring the Trump administration ’ s efforts to ban WeChat as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The administration has ] put in scant little evidence that its effective ban of WeChat for all U.S. users addresses those concerns , ” Beeler added .
“ The plaintiffs have shown serious questions going to the merits of their First Amendment claim that the Secretary ’ s prohibited transactions effectively eliminate the plaintiffs ’ key platform for communication , slow or eliminate discourse , and are the equivalent of censorship of speech or a prior restraint on it.
” Does this mean conservatives and Christians are now free to exercise their First @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
One wonders if Beeler holds the same position with regards to Facebook and Twitter , which are actively censoring conservatives , Christians and white people for expressing viewpoints that some far-leftists find “ offensive.
” Will Natural News , for instance , once again be allowed to put its smartphone app in the Apple App Store ?
How about the hundreds of American patriots who have been de-platformed from Facebook – or does Beeler ’ s ruling only apply to the Chinese ?
Since we already know the answer to these questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Why is such hypocrisy allowed to persist ?
And perhaps even more importantly : Why isn ’ t the Republican-dominated Senate doing anything about it ?
We are getting to the point where the endless excuses no longer suffice .
The Silicon Valley tech giants continue to trample the First Amendment rights of conservatives and Christians with no penalty , when the reality is that all of them deserve to have their Section 230 immunity protections under the Communications Decency Act ( CDA ) completely stripped .
There are only two possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ double standard , and neither are acceptable .
Republicans are either completely spineless or they are complicit in the censorship – and in either case , they need to be held accountable .
We can also no longer keep giving Trump a free pass when his administration , including his latest attorney general , continues to do nothing to rectify the problem .
What we are seeing , ironically , is an administration that is mostly talk with very little action .
“ Where is the ruling striking down and breaking up Facebook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ etc .
over First Amendment concerns ?
” asked one Zero Hedge commenter cutting right to the chase .
“ Twitter can ban people because the First Amendment doesn ’ t extend to companies , but WeChat , a company owned by the CCP , does get First Amendment rights .
Got it .
This all makes sense , ” wrote another , highlighting the complete hypocrisy of America ’ s criminal injustice system .
The latest news about First Amendment and free speech issues can be accessed at FirstAmendment.news .

by: Ethan Huff
(Natural News) An effort by President Trump to ban the “WeChat” app from American smartphones has failed after U.S. Magistrate Judge Laurel Beeler of San Francisco decided that restricting the Chinese-owned app would violate the First Amendment.
Regardless of the fact that WeChat poses a national security threat, much in the same way as TikTok, Beeler claims that the app has free speech rights that must be protected.
In her ruling, Beeler wrote that WeChat, a product of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), “serves as a virtual public square for the Chinese-speaking and Chinese-American community in the United States and is (as a practical matter) their (sic) only means of communication.”
Beeler added that banning WeChat “forecloses meaningful access to communication in their community and thereby operates as a prior restraint on their right to free speech.”
Failing to explain how or why Chinese people in the U.S. somehow cannot use other modes of smartphone communication, Beeler went on to reveal her political bias by declaring the Trump administration’s efforts to ban WeChat as an “overarching national-security interest.”
“[The administration has] put in scant little evidence that its effective ban of WeChat for all U.S. users addresses those concerns,” Beeler added.
“The plaintiffs have shown serious questions going to the merits of their First Amendment claim that the Secretary’s prohibited transactions effectively eliminate the plaintiffs’ key platform for communication, slow or eliminate discourse, and are the equivalent of censorship of speech or a prior restraint on it.”
Does this mean conservatives and Christians are now free to exercise their First Amendment rights on Silicon Valley tech platforms?
One wonders if Beeler holds the same position with regards to Facebook and Twitter, which are actively censoring conservatives, Christians and white people for expressing viewpoints that some far-leftists find “offensive.”
Will Natural News, for instance, once again be allowed to put its smartphone app in the Apple App Store? How about the hundreds of American patriots who have been de-platformed from Facebook – or does Beeler’s ruling only apply to the Chinese?
Since we already know the answer to these questions, it is critical to ask yourself: Why is such hypocrisy allowed to persist? And perhaps even more importantly: Why isn’t the Republican-dominated Senate doing anything about it?
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
We are getting to the point where the endless excuses no longer suffice. The Silicon Valley tech giants continue to trample the First Amendment rights of conservatives and Christians with no penalty, when the reality is that all of them deserve to have their Section 230 immunity protections under the Communications Decency Act (CDA) completely stripped.
There are only two possible explanations for the Republican response to this double standard, and neither are acceptable. Republicans are either completely spineless or they are complicit in the censorship – and in either case, they need to be held accountable.
We can also no longer keep giving Trump a free pass when his administration, including his latest attorney general, continues to do nothing to rectify the problem. What we are seeing, ironically, is an administration that is mostly talk with very little action.
“Where is the ruling striking down and breaking up Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google, etc. over First Amendment concerns?” asked one Zero Hedge commenter cutting right to the chase.
“Twitter can ban people because the First Amendment doesn’t extend to companies, but WeChat, a company owned by the CCP, does get First Amendment rights. Got it. This all makes sense,” wrote another, highlighting the complete hypocrisy of America’s criminal injustice system.
The latest news about First Amendment and free speech issues can be accessed at FirstAmendment.news.
Sources for this article include:
ZeroHedge.com
NaturalNews.com
NaturalNews.com


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Trump is Prepared to Invoke the Insurrection Act After the Election – According to Judge Jeanine

According to an interview yesterday with Jeanine on Dave Rubin ’ s show , President Trump is prepared to drop the hammer if riots continue after the election , if a clear win happens .
She talks about this at timestamp 23:09 23:36 And if you win , if you are the winner 23:40 and there are the promised riots , 23:43 looting and anarchy , what will you do ?
” 23:44 He said , “ We ’ ll put it down very quickly.
” 23:46 “ What will you do ?
” 23:47 “ We ’ re gon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23:49 “ What will you do ?
” 23:51 He said , “ Insurrection.
” 23:53 He ’ s gon na use the Insurrection Act .
23:55 And you know , I knew that at some point 23:59 he had to admit that he was going to use it .
24:01 But I said , “ Why not now ?
” 24:03 And he said , “ It ’ s not ready yet .
24:05 This isn ’ t the time yet.
” The insurrection act will be used as a ‘ mop-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financiers .
Once the organizers are taken down ( hopefully prior to the election ) the military will deal with anyone still stupid enough to act on their own .
They really are going to try and overthrow the constitution .
Prepare accordingly .

According to an interview yesterday with Jeanine on Dave Rubin’s show, President Trump is prepared to drop the hammer if riots continue after the election, if a clear win happens.
She talks about this at timestamp 23:09
23:36
And if you win, if you are the winner
23:40
and there are the promised riots,
23:43
looting and anarchy, what will you do?”
23:44
He said, “We’ll put it down very quickly.”
23:46
“What will you do?”
23:47
“We’re gonna put it down very quickly.”
23:49
“What will you do?”
23:51
He said, “Insurrection.”
23:53
He’s gonna use the Insurrection Act.
23:55
And you know, I knew that at some point
23:59
he had to admit that he was going to use it.
24:01
But I said, “Why not now?”
24:03
And he said, “It’s not ready yet.
24:05
This isn’t the time yet.”
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The insurrection act will be used as a ‘mop-up’ operation after DOJ rolls up the financiers. Once the organizers are taken down (hopefully prior to the election) the military will deal with anyone still stupid enough to act on their own.
They really are going to try and overthrow the constitution. Prepare accordingly.
AC


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Biden’s Texas Political Director caught on video filling out ballots for dead people and homeless pe

Biden’s Texas Political Director caught on video filling out ballots for dead people and homeless people!

The Joe Biden campaign ’ s Texas Political Director has been formally accused of helping to run an illegal ballot @ @ @ @ @ two separate affidavits filed Monday at the Texas Supreme Court .
Two private investigators , @ @ @ @ @ and former police officer , testify under oath that they have video evidence , documentation @ @ @ @ @ Biden ’ s Texas Political Director Dallas Jones and his cohorts are currently hoarding mail-in @ @ @ @ @ operatives to fill the ballots out for people illegally , including for dead people , @ @ @ @ @ home residents in the 2020 presidential election .
Sounds a lot like the illegal ballot @ @ @ @ @ in Minnesota .
It ’ s starting to look like Democrats are doing this in @ @ @ @ @ this election .
Even Tulsi Gabbard is speaking out against election fraud via ballot harvesting @ @ @ @ @ Rodney Davis have created and introduced legislation to ban it !

The Joe Biden campaign’s Texas Political Director has been formally accused of helping to run an illegal ballot harvesting operation, according to two separate affidavits filed Monday at the Texas Supreme Court.
Two private investigators, including a former FBI agent and former police officer, testify under oath that they have video evidence, documentation and witnesses to prove that Biden’s Texas Political Director Dallas Jones and his cohorts are currently hoarding mail-in and absentee ballots and ordering operatives to fill the ballots out for people illegally, including for dead people, homeless people, and nursing home residents in the 2020 presidential election.
MORE:
nationalfile.com/bidens-texas-political-director-accused-of-illegal-ballot-harvesting-at-texas-supreme-court/
Breaking: Vote By Mail FRAUD BUSTED ON TAPE t.co/HjGmDauKxU — Patrick Howley (@HowleyReporter) July 30, 2020
Sounds a lot like the illegal ballot harvesting operation Project Veritas caught in Minnesota.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
It’s starting to look like Democrats are doing this in every state of consequence during this election.
The Biden Texas Political Director is allegedly running his illegal ballot harvesting operation in Harris County, where this Democrat Nursing Home/Forgery scandal is developing involving Sheila Jackson-Leet.co/B29SNiDFBH — Patrick Howley (@HowleyReporter) September 28, 2020
.@HowleyReporter Breaking: Vote By Mail FRAUD BUSTED ON TAPE t.co/64k3Dq5mUL — BLONDE DIVAS 101 (@BLONDEDIVAS101) September 28, 2020
Even Tulsi Gabbard is speaking out against election fraud via ballot harvesting!
She and a Republican Rodney Davis have created and introduced legislation to ban it!
Banning ballot harvesting is not a partisan issue. It's been used & abused in states like North Carolina and California & is ripe for fraud. That's why I intro'd HR8285, the Election Fraud Prevention Act w/ @RodneyDavis – to protect the integrity of our elections & our democracy pic.twitter.com/ltZhaenSVB — Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) September 18, 2020
h/t STAX


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Trump Critic Judge Andrew Napolitano ‘forced’ man into ‘BDSM games,’ lawsuit alleges

A second man has accused Fox News personality and former Judge Andrew Napolitano of sexual abuse , claiming the judge forced him to engage in strange BDSM sex games over the course of a number of years .
Napolitano , who faces another sexual abuse lawsuit filed earlier this month , categorically denied the new allegations , calling it a smear campaign .
The alleged victim , James Kruzelnick , claims in the suit filed in New Jersey state court that he met Napolitano while working as a waiter at the Mohawk House restaurant in Sparta , NJ , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Napolitano allegedly followed Kruzelnick into the bathroom at the restaurant and groped him , the suit states .
“ Defendant Napolitano grabbed plaintiff ’ s buttocks , and told him that ‘ you are just so hot , ’ ” according to the suit .
Kruzelnick rebuffed him , but continued to speak with Napolitano and serve as his waiter because he believed he was a “ brilliant ” man , the suit states .
In September 2015 , he agreed to meet Napolitano at his house — where the former judge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As Kruzelnick was sitting in Napolitano ’ s living room , the judge walked over to him with his pants down and said , “ I am really into certain things , ” then sat on his lap .

A second man has accused Fox News personality and former Judge Andrew Napolitano of sexual abuse, claiming the judge forced him to engage in strange BDSM sex games over the course of a number of years.
Napolitano, who faces another sexual abuse lawsuit filed earlier this month, categorically denied the new allegations, calling it a smear campaign.
The alleged victim, James Kruzelnick, claims in the suit filed in New Jersey state court that he met Napolitano while working as a waiter at the Mohawk House restaurant in Sparta, NJ, in 2014.
During one of his visits, Napolitano allegedly followed Kruzelnick into the bathroom at the restaurant and groped him, the suit states.
“Defendant Napolitano grabbed plaintiff’s buttocks, and told him that ‘you are just so hot,’” according to the suit.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
Kruzelnick rebuffed him, but continued to speak with Napolitano and serve as his waiter because he believed he was a “brilliant” man, the suit states.
In September 2015, he agreed to meet Napolitano at his house — where the former judge allegedly coerced him into BDSM sex games.
As Kruzelnick was sitting in Napolitano’s living room, the judge walked over to him with his pants down and said, “I am really into certain things,” then sat on his lap.
nypost.com/2020/09/28/judge-andrew-napolitano-forced-nj-man-into-bdsm-games-lawsuit/


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--California Gov. Gavin Newsom Signed Legislation Saturday that establishes a “Transgender Wellness an

California Gov. Gavin Newsom Signed Legislation Saturday that establishes a “Transgender Wellness and Equity Fund”

California Gov .
Gavin Newsom ( D ) signed legislation ( AB 2218 ) Saturday that establishes a “ Transgender @ @ @ @ @ that may be used for transgender medical interventions and surgeries , many of which are @ @ @ @ @ “ California has some of the strongest pro LGBTQ+ laws in the nation and with @ @ @ @ @ our march toward equality takes an additional step forward , ” said Newsom about AB @ @ @ @ @ such as SB 132 , which allows biological male inmates who claim to be women @ @ @ @ @ ’ s prisons .
He went on : These new laws will help us better @ @ @ @ @ on the LGBTQ+ community , establish a new fund to support our transgender sisters and @ @ @ @ @ culturally competent efforts that uphold the dignity of all Californians , regardless of who you @ @ @ @ @ .

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed legislation (AB 2218) Saturday that establishes a “Transgender Wellness and Equity Fund” that may be used for transgender medical interventions and surgeries, many of which are known to cause sterility.
“California has some of the strongest pro LGBTQ+ laws in the nation and with the bills signed today, our march toward equality takes an additional step forward,” said Newsom about AB 2218 and other LGBTQ measures such as SB 132, which allows biological male inmates who claim to be women to be housed in women’s prisons. He went on:
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These new laws will help us better understand the impacts of COVID-19 on the LGBTQ+ community, establish a new fund to support our transgender sisters and brothers and advance inclusive and culturally competent efforts that uphold the dignity of all Californians, regardless of who you are or who you love.
Women’s Liberation Front (WoLF) expressed strong opposition to AB 2218 and SB 132:
Gov. @GavinNewsom also signed AB2218, and the State of California will pay to sterilize children on the basis of claims to gender identity. t.co/bRVISgAnye — WoLF (@WomensLibFront) September 28, 2020
www.breitbart.com/politics/2020/09/28/ca-gov-newsom-signs-bill-establishing-taxpayer-subsidized-transgender-equity-fund/


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--“Yesterday, House Democrats as advised by their leader speaker Pelosi blocked all relief for America

“Yesterday, House Democrats as advised by their leader speaker Pelosi blocked all relief for American small businesses,”

GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy isn ’ t letting House Speaker Nancy Pelosi off the hook for her hair fiasco earlier this month , or her continued partisan efforts to stifle relief for the American people proposed by President Donald Trump .
I agree , her sanctimonious actions really are doing more damage to the nation and doing little to help those most vulnerable both economically and physically affected by the COVID-19 outbreak .
Moreover , the Democrats are fighting even harder and dividing the nation even further over Trump ’ s constitutional right to nominate Justice Amy Coney Barrett to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ruth Bader Ginsburg ’ s seat .
For Democrats — and as it appears by the party ’ s actions — that the American people can take a back seat and make the sacrifices needed in the hopes that they will win back the White House .
It ’ s all about winning the election in November .
It ’ s all about winning even if that means cutting off any assistance to the most needed and stifling programs that would work to elevate the economic hardships .
McCarthy ’ s statements about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ First , McCarthy noted that on Saturday it marked “ the one-year anniversary since Speaker Pelosi launched the most partisan weakest impeachment in U.S. history .
”

GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy isn’t letting House Speaker Nancy Pelosi off the hook for her hair fiasco earlier this month, or her continued partisan efforts to stifle relief for the American people proposed by President Donald Trump.
I agree, her sanctimonious actions really are doing more damage to the nation and doing little to help those most vulnerable both economically and physically affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Moreover, the Democrats are fighting even harder and dividing the nation even further over Trump’s constitutional right to nominate Justice Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court to fill the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s seat.
For Democrats — and as it appears by the party’s actions — that the American people can take a back seat and make the sacrifices needed in the hopes that they will win back the White House.
It’s all about winning the election in November. It’s all about winning even if that means cutting off any assistance to the most needed and stifling programs that would work to elevate the economic hardships.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
McCarthy’s statements about Pelosi are right on the money.
First, McCarthy noted that on Saturday it marked “the one-year anniversary since Speaker Pelosi launched the most partisan weakest impeachment in U.S. history.”
saraacarter.com/gop-leader-mccarthy-pelosis-done-more-to-dismantle-our-institutions-and-delay-relief-than-help-the-american-people/
.@GOPLeader: "Perhaps Nancy will want to do more to help [small businesses] and not just violate local orders so she can get her hair done." pic.twitter.com/44Wj3517fv — The Hill (@thehill) September 25, 2020


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--Pelosi Primes Democrats On Chance House Decides Presidency

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D-CA ) is preparing for the off-chance that neither President Trump nor Joe Biden will win an outright Electoral College victory – leaving the fate of the presidency to the House of Representatives .
In such a scenario – which hasn ’ t happened since 1876 – each state ’ s delegation would receive a single vote in the House .
Per Politico : Who receives that vote is determined by an internal tally of each lawmaker in the delegation .
This means the presidency may not be decided by the party that controls the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ controls more state delegations in the chamber .
And right now , Republicans control 26 delegations to Democrats ’ 22 , with Pennsylvania tied and Michigan a 7-6 plurality for Democrats , with a 14th seat held by independent Justin Amash .
In other words , if this long-shot scenario happens , the presidency could be decided by a single seat , while there would certainly be extended legal challenges over victors in House races , as national party leaders and their legal teams would be scrambling to determine the number of seats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday letter to House Democrats , Pelosi urged them to consider the scenario when determining where to focus resources on winning more seats in November .
In typically red states such as Alaska and Montana , Democrats could focus efforts on races where Democrats have been competitive statewide .
As Politico notes , “ In these states , Democratic victories could flip an entire delegation with a single upset House victory.
” “ The Constitution says that a candidate must receive a majority of the state delegations to win , ” wrote Pelosi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of delegations or keep the Republicans from doing so .
”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is preparing for the off-chance that neither President Trump nor Joe Biden will win an outright Electoral College victory – leaving the fate of the presidency to the House of Representatives.
In such a scenario – which hasn’t happened since 1876 – each state’s delegation would receive a single vote in the House. Per Politico:
Who receives that vote is determined by an internal tally of each lawmaker in the delegation. This means the presidency may not be decided by the party that controls the House itself but by the one that controls more state delegations in the chamber. And right now, Republicans control 26 delegations to Democrats’ 22, with Pennsylvania tied and Michigan a 7-6 plurality for Democrats, with a 14th seat held by independent Justin Amash.
In other words, if this long-shot scenario happens, the presidency could be decided by a single seat, while there would certainly be extended legal challenges over victors in House races, as national party leaders and their legal teams would be scrambling to determine the number of seats available to each party.
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In a Sunday letter to House Democrats, Pelosi urged them to consider the scenario when determining where to focus resources on winning more seats in November. In typically red states such as Alaska and Montana, Democrats could focus efforts on races where Democrats have been competitive statewide. As Politico notes, “In these states, Democratic victories could flip an entire delegation with a single upset House victory.”
“The Constitution says that a candidate must receive a majority of the state delegations to win,” wrote Pelosi. “We must achieve that majority of delegations or keep the Republicans from doing so.”
more
www.zerohedge.com/political/pelosi-primes-democrats-chance-house-decides-presidency


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-29--President Trump’s confidential tax records from 2005 have allegedly been leaked. They show he paid $

BREAKING : President Trump ’ s confidential tax records from 2005 have allegedly been leaked .
They show he paid @ @ @ @ @ that year.
# TrumpTaxes # TrumpTaxReturns pic.twitter.com/EuzNpDMhFW

BREAKING: President Trump’s confidential tax records from 2005 have allegedly been leaked.
They show he paid $36,142,505 in annual taxes that year.#TrumpTaxes #TrumpTaxReturns pic.twitter.com/EuzNpDMhFW
— Omar Navarro (@RealOmarNavarro) September 28, 2020


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-28--DON JR: The US is 243 Years Old. Biden Has Been In Politics For 47 Of Those Years. That’s 20% Of The

DON JR: The US is 243 Years Old. Biden Has Been In Politics For 47 Of Those Years. That’s 20% Of The Time And You Can’t Name An Accomplishme

The United States is 243 years old .
Joe Biden has been in politics for 47 of those years… That @ @ @ @ @ the time… and you still can ’ t name an accomplishment of his other than @ @ @ @ @ and enriching his family BIGLY .

The United States is 243 years old. Joe Biden has been in politics for 47 of those years… That’s ~20% of the time… and you still can’t name an accomplishment of his other than sending our jobs to China and enriching his family BIGLY.
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) September 28, 2020


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-28--Here Are 4 Potential Hotspots Where the Next World War Could Erupt at Any Time

If 2020 had a slogan , it would be “ The Year Of Our Discontent.
” This sentiment is felt in virtually every country globally as national governments declare war on their economy , the working class , the poor , and the very old and the very young .
In America , the “ discontent ” is genuine .
Already reeling from a mass propaganda campaign of division created by the MSM corporate outlets , Americans were still attempting to claw their way out of an economic depression with some success .
Then , of course , came COVID @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state repression of what few individual liberties existed , locking residents in their apartment buildings , disappearing doctors , and , allegedly , patients themselves .
Australia and Western Europe joined in the hysteria , with Australia attempting to become as totalitarian as the Chinese and mainly succeeding .
Western Europe engaged in the biggest propaganda campaign since the war in Iraq and the United States .
Locked in some media manipulated struggle , Western Europe saw its governments shut down their economies , deploy National Guard troops , enforce lockdowns , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As a result of the implementation of Communo-Fascism , the world ’ s economy tanked , shrank , and may never come back as long as these governments and “ leaders ” remain in power .
In America , however , amid the economic collapse and COVID hysteria , a new threat has emerged .
Almost every major city in America is experiencing violence on a nightly basis .
Riots , physical assaults , vandalism , and street clashes are becoming ordinary .
Some conflicts are deadly as the “ right ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the “ left.
” We ’ re seeing armed conflict in our streets on an increasingly regular basis .
For those living in America , the civil war , societal disruption , and chaos sowed overseas for so many years appear to be germinating back home .
RELATED : RIOTS Are Coming to a City Near You : What You Need to Do Right Now In other words , the empire appears to be collapsing as they all inevitably do .
But , when empires collapse , they often leave a vacuum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ present opportunities to other powers and , especially , other empires .
In addition to America ’ s problems at home , it appears the entire world might be sleepwalking into a third World War and yet another “ restructuring ” of the world order .
Seemingly localized incidents have an international and global root , and the reverberations will be felt across the entire planet .
While most people alive today might believe that the first World War was a direct result of the assassination of Franz Ferdinand , the truth is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years prior .
Indeed , even after the assassination , the sparks did not immediately fly .
As Historian Christopher Clark wrote , the world was “ sleepwalking ” into one of the greatest catastrophes of the 20th Century .
It took over a month before the first shots of the war were truly fired after the assassination .
In the meantime , the world ’ s population carried on as it had prior – going to work , going to school , engaging in business , etc .
Politicians crowed about national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sense , once the initial shock of the assassination had worn off , life continued as usual until it didn ’ t .
It is now entirely possible that we find ourselves in just the same type of situation .
While the world ’ s people are focused on a virus and America teeters on the brink of a civil war , the world ’ s governments are positioning themselves for a global conflagration , the likes of which we have never seen if for no other reason that the existence and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just a few examples of the world ’ s current hotspots that could , at any moment , drag the entire globe into a military confrontation .
The Armenia/Azerbaijan conflict continues apace .
Both sides have fired at one another repeatedly over the past few years .
On Sunday , however , the situation erupted and an official state of war was declared in the region .
While previously avoiding large-scale military clashes , there is potential to bring in much more significant players – Russia and Turkey and NATO itself- as both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suppliers to the Armenians Azeris .
Read the article , “ Regional Conflict Brewing In Azerbaijan , Armenia , ” to get a clear understanding of the conflict taking place .
Although things might not appear as dangerous today as they did during the time period of Obama ’ s “ red lines ” in Syria and the highest point of American provocation in Ukraine , 2020 has marked direct , albeit minuscule , skirmishes between Russians and Americans in Syria .
Incidents of fistfights followed numerous Russian and American refusals to allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Russian soldiers have intentionally run each other ’ s patrols off the road , resulting in injuries .
It is now commonplace for these forces to collide in this manner , with one or the other being forced off the highway by a slightly more substantial contingent of opposing forces , complete with helicopters circling overhead .
Even if the Russian and American militaries ’ strategy is to “ let boys be boys , ” how long will it be before those boys decide to fire on one another ?
Of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States and Russia could potentially find themselves in a military conflict , one even more dangerous than Syria .
After all , Ukraine is on the border of Russia and , for that reason , an immensely more important region .
Russia maintains a covert force in Eastern Ukraine .
In contrast , the United States maintains troops in Western Ukraine , and shelling still occurs regularly between the Western and Eastern sides .
Any major incident between the two would have cataclysmic repercussions for the world .
While Russia might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Syria , it will absolutely do so in Ukraine .
RELATED : Could the Ukraine Conflict Be the Start of WW3 ?
Here ’ s the Background on This Brewing Crisis While analysts seem divided on China ’ s question – some argue China is a victim of US imperialism , while others see it as the root of all evil – the truth is somewhere in between .
China and the US are unquestionably at odds with one another .
However , China is every bit as much an empire as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more adept at playing the long game .
However , recently , as the Trump administration in the United States begins calling out unfair trade practices , WTO favoritism , and Free Trade policies and attempting to bring jobs back to the United States from Chinese sweatshops , China has responded more traditionally .
From retaliatory and targeted tariffs ( fair enough ) to alleged cyber attacks , China is responding .
However , the Chinese response has come in the form of traditional military tactics and preparing for “ unrestricted warfare ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ words , war with no rules .
RELATED : China is Spying on Millions of People : And They Aren ’ t Even in China But China has also increased its aggression against its Asian neighbors in the east , most notably Japan and Vietnam .
Chinese friction with Japan is perhaps the most well known , and it centers around the Senkaku Islands ( Diaoyu in China ) .
Also , China is attempting to extend its borders in the South China Sea by creating artificial islands to stretch its maritime claims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war with China , having changed its Constitution to allow its army to operate overseas and begin planning stages for a defensive strategy of offense .
Its tensions with Vietnam and the Philippines also stem from a desire to impose its empirical desires upon those sovereign governments generally within the orbit of the United States .
Taiwan has always been a sore spot with China , with PROC maintaining that it ’ s the ultimate goal is “ liberation ” and return of Taiwan to mainland China .
However , recently , China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , threatening imminent war to reclaim Taiwan .
Greek and Turkish relations have always been tense .
Yet , Western audiences persist in believing they are outside of history and that any Euro-Med country is beyond the point of starting pointless wars .
However , Turkey ’ s moves in the Mediterranean in 2019 ( signing a maritime treaty with Libya involving Greek waters and islands without informing Greece ) and attempting to explore for gas and oil in Greek territorial waters have led to several face-offs between the two countries , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and coast guard forces .
A war between Turkey and Greece would necessarily involve the rest of Europe , as evidenced by the fact that France has already sent token air support to the region to deter Turkey .
Of course , Germany ’ s close relationship to Turkey may not put it on the side of Europe and possibly raise tensions between France and Germany if the conflict goes too far .
Europe may very well find itself in yet another inter-European quagmire with the wildcards of NATO , US , Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the wings .
This is by no means an exhaustive list of conflicts shaping up around the world .
It is merely a glimpse into some of the more significant possibilities that might launch this planet into a repeat of 1914 when the modern world was sleepwalking into the greatest catastrophe it had yet to see .
We can no longer afford to continue sleepwalking .
Like the first World War , a new world will undoubtedly rise out of the ashes .
But these ashes will be nuclear , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one in 1919 .
The building blocks for that world are already in place , but that is a topic for another article .
Are you concerned about global events ?
Where do you think conflict will erupt next ?
And do you think that the rest of the world will be dragged into the event ?
Share your thoughts in the comments .

by Robert Wheeler
If 2020 had a slogan, it would be “The Year Of Our Discontent.” This sentiment is felt in virtually every country globally as national governments declare war on their economy, the working class, the poor, and the very old and the very young. In America, the “discontent” is genuine.
Already reeling from a mass propaganda campaign of division created by the MSM corporate outlets, Americans were still attempting to claw their way out of an economic depression with some success.
Then, of course, came COVID.
China engaged in a massive police state repression of what few individual liberties existed, locking residents in their apartment buildings, disappearing doctors, and, allegedly, patients themselves. Australia and Western Europe joined in the hysteria, with Australia attempting to become as totalitarian as the Chinese and mainly succeeding.
Western Europe engaged in the biggest propaganda campaign since the war in Iraq and the United States. Locked in some media manipulated struggle, Western Europe saw its governments shut down their economies, deploy National Guard troops, enforce lockdowns, and wear masks for their states’ populations.
As a result of the implementation of Communo-Fascism, the world’s economy tanked, shrank, and may never come back as long as these governments and “leaders” remain in power.
In America, however, amid the economic collapse and COVID hysteria, a new threat has emerged.
Almost every major city in America is experiencing violence on a nightly basis. Riots, physical assaults, vandalism, and street clashes are becoming ordinary. Some conflicts are deadly as the “right” begins to fight back against the attacks of the “left.” We’re seeing armed conflict in our streets on an increasingly regular basis.
For those living in America, the civil war, societal disruption, and chaos sowed overseas for so many years appear to be germinating back home.
RELATED: RIOTS Are Coming to a City Near You: What You Need to Do Right Now
In other words, the empire appears to be collapsing as they all inevitably do.
But, when empires collapse, they often leave a vacuum. At the very least, they present opportunities to other powers and, especially, other empires.
In addition to America’s problems at home, it appears the entire world might be sleepwalking into a third World War and yet another “restructuring” of the world order. Seemingly localized incidents have an international and global root, and the reverberations will be felt across the entire planet.
While most people alive today might believe that the first World War was a direct result of the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, the truth is somebody laid the groundwork for that war years prior. Indeed, even after the assassination, the sparks did not immediately fly. As Historian Christopher Clark wrote, the world was “sleepwalking” into one of the greatest catastrophes of the 20th Century.
It took over a month before the first shots of the war were truly fired after the assassination. In the meantime, the world’s population carried on as it had prior – going to work, going to school, engaging in business, etc. Politicians crowed about national dignity and others about retribution. In a sense, once the initial shock of the assassination had worn off, life continued as usual until it didn’t.
It is now entirely possible that we find ourselves in just the same type of situation.
While the world’s people are focused on a virus and America teeters on the brink of a civil war, the world’s governments are positioning themselves for a global conflagration, the likes of which we have never seen if for no other reason that the existence and proliferation of nuclear weapons.
Below are just a few examples of the world’s current hotspots that could, at any moment, drag the entire globe into a military confrontation.
Armenia | Azerbaijan
The Armenia/Azerbaijan conflict continues apace. Both sides have fired at one another repeatedly over the past few years. On Sunday, however, the situation erupted and an official state of war was declared in the region.
Zero Hedge reports:
“Early in the morning, around 7 a.m. the Azerbaijani forces launched a large-scale aggression, including missile attacks…” Armenia’s Defense Ministry stated Sunday. Armenia has since reportedly declared martial law and a “total military mobilization” in what looks to be the most serious escalation between the two countries in years. Air and artillery attacks from both sides ramped up, with each side blaming the other for the start of hostilities, while international powers urge calm. Crucially, civilians have already been killed on either side by indiscriminate shelling. At least a dozen soldiers on either side have also been reported killed. Armenia’s high command has ordered all troops throughout the country to muster and report to their bases: “I invite the soldiers appointed in the forces to appear before their military commissions in the regions,” a statement said. (source)
While previously avoiding large-scale military clashes, there is potential to bring in much more significant players – Russia and Turkey and NATO itself- as both nations are acting as patrons and weapons suppliers to the Armenians Azeris. Read the article, “Regional Conflict Brewing In Azerbaijan, Armenia,” to get a clear understanding of the conflict taking place.
United States | Russia
Although things might not appear as dangerous today as they did during the time period of Obama’s “red lines” in Syria and the highest point of American provocation in Ukraine, 2020 has marked direct, albeit minuscule, skirmishes between Russians and Americans in Syria.
Incidents of fistfights followed numerous Russian and American refusals to allow others to pass through checkpoints. American and Russian soldiers have intentionally run each other’s patrols off the road, resulting in injuries. It is now commonplace for these forces to collide in this manner, with one or the other being forced off the highway by a slightly more substantial contingent of opposing forces, complete with helicopters circling overhead.
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Even if the Russian and American militaries’ strategy is to “let boys be boys,” how long will it be before those boys decide to fire on one another?
Of course, there is a second front where the United States and Russia could potentially find themselves in a military conflict, one even more dangerous than Syria. After all, Ukraine is on the border of Russia and, for that reason, an immensely more important region. Russia maintains a covert force in Eastern Ukraine.
In contrast, the United States maintains troops in Western Ukraine, and shelling still occurs regularly between the Western and Eastern sides. Any major incident between the two would have cataclysmic repercussions for the world. While Russia might not go all the way to defend Syria, it will absolutely do so in Ukraine.
RELATED: Could the Ukraine Conflict Be the Start of WW3? Here’s the Background on This Brewing Crisis
China | India | South East Asia | Japan | United States
While analysts seem divided on China’s question – some argue China is a victim of US imperialism, while others see it as the root of all evil – the truth is somewhere in between.
China and the US are unquestionably at odds with one another. However, China is every bit as much an empire as the United States, and it is much more adept at playing the long game.
However, recently, as the Trump administration in the United States begins calling out unfair trade practices, WTO favoritism, and Free Trade policies and attempting to bring jobs back to the United States from Chinese sweatshops, China has responded more traditionally.
From retaliatory and targeted tariffs (fair enough) to alleged cyber attacks, China is responding. However, the Chinese response has come in the form of traditional military tactics and preparing for “unrestricted warfare” with the United States. In other words, war with no rules.
RELATED: China is Spying on Millions of People: And They Aren’t Even in China
But China has also increased its aggression against its Asian neighbors in the east, most notably Japan and Vietnam. Chinese friction with Japan is perhaps the most well known, and it centers around the Senkaku Islands (Diaoyu in China). Also, China is attempting to extend its borders in the South China Sea by creating artificial islands to stretch its maritime claims.
Japan is now openly preparing for war with China, having changed its Constitution to allow its army to operate overseas and begin planning stages for a defensive strategy of offense.
Its tensions with Vietnam and the Philippines also stem from a desire to impose its empirical desires upon those sovereign governments generally within the orbit of the United States.
Taiwan has always been a sore spot with China, with PROC maintaining that it’s the ultimate goal is “liberation” and return of Taiwan to mainland China. However, recently, China has become even bolder in its claims, threatening imminent war to reclaim Taiwan.
Greece | Turkey
Greek and Turkish relations have always been tense. Yet, Western audiences persist in believing they are outside of history and that any Euro-Med country is beyond the point of starting pointless wars.
However, Turkey’s moves in the Mediterranean in 2019 (signing a maritime treaty with Libya involving Greek waters and islands without informing Greece) and attempting to explore for gas and oil in Greek territorial waters have led to several face-offs between the two countries, including some alleged and unconfirmed clashes between naval and coast guard forces.
A war between Turkey and Greece would necessarily involve the rest of Europe, as evidenced by the fact that France has already sent token air support to the region to deter Turkey.
Of course, Germany’s close relationship to Turkey may not put it on the side of Europe and possibly raise tensions between France and Germany if the conflict goes too far. Europe may very well find itself in yet another inter-European quagmire with the wildcards of NATO, US, Russia, and the ironically capitalistic Chinese waiting in the wings.
Conclusion
This is by no means an exhaustive list of conflicts shaping up around the world. It is merely a glimpse into some of the more significant possibilities that might launch this planet into a repeat of 1914 when the modern world was sleepwalking into the greatest catastrophe it had yet to see.
We can no longer afford to continue sleepwalking. Like the first World War, a new world will undoubtedly rise out of the ashes. But these ashes will be nuclear, and the world will be far different from the one in 1919.
The building blocks for that world are already in place, but that is a topic for another article.
Are you concerned about global events? Where do you think conflict will erupt next? And do you think that the rest of the world will be dragged into the event? Share your thoughts in the comments.


investmentwatchblog--2020-09-28--Another hint of negative interest-rates from the Bank of England

The weekend just gone has provided another step or two in the dance being played out by the Bank of England on negative interest-rates .
It was provided by external member Silvana Tenreyro in an interview published by The Telegraph on Saturday night .
Perhaps she was unaware she was giving an interview to a media organisation with a paywall but this continued a poor recent trend of Bank of England policymakers making some more equal than others .
As a recipient of a public salary interviews like this should be available to all and not some but it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As to her views they were really rather extraordinary so let us investigate .
It is not the fact that she may well vote for negative interest-rates that is a surprise as after all she told us this back on the 15th of July .
So she voted for more QE ( Quantitative Easing ) bond purchases in spite of the fact that she felt the extra £100 billion would have a weaker impact than previous tranches .
This means that with UK bond or Gilt yields continuing to be low and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around 6/7 years in terms of maturity ) then in any downturn that only really leaves lower interest-rates .
As they are already a mere 0.1 % that means a standard move of 0.25 % would leave us at -0.15 % I am pocking this out as even from a central bank Ivory Tower it is quite something .
Let me start with the latter point which is about it being profitable for banks to lend in a time of negative interest-rates .
This is news to ECB Vice-President De Guindos who told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further that day and the emphasis is mine If we fast forward to last week there is this from Peter Bookvar on Twitter .
Or there was this .
We do not often look at the French banks who have mostly moved under the radar but there is “ trouble , trouble , trouble ” ( h/t Taylor Swift ) here too .
So profitability is fine but share prices have collapsed ?
I guess Silvana must have an equity portfolio full of banks waiting for her triumph .
Remember the ECB is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offering them money at -1 % in an attempt to offset the problems created by negative interest-rates .
Another way of looking at bank stress was the surge in access to the US Federal Reserve Dollar liquidity swaps post March 19th .
We saw the ECB and Bank of Japan leading the charge on behalf of banks in their jurisdictions .
Intermediaries were unwilling to lend US Dollars to them as they feared they were in trouble which again contradicts our Silvana .
As to companies borrowing costs they have fallen although there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For example the bond purchases of the ECB will have implictly helped bu lowering yields and making corporate bonds more attractive .
Also it has bought 233 billion Euros of corporate bonds which in itself suggests more was felt to be needed .
Actually some 289 billion Euros of bank covered bonds have been bought which returns us to The Precious !
The Precious !
Apparently all of that means this .
This really is the banking equivalent of Comical Ali or in football terms like saying Chelsea have a secure defence .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ fuzzy .
I have no issue with policymakers having different views and in fact welcome it .
But I do have an issue with claims that are simply rubbish like the Silvana Tenreyro one that bank profitability has not been affected by negative interest-rates .
Even one of her colleagues is correcting what is simply a matter of fact .
However as is often the way with central banks he seems to be clinging to a theory that died over a decade ago .
Later we will hear from Governor Bailey who only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative interest-rate rumours that he had begun .
Oh Well !
Still there is one thing we can all agree on .
Continuing a theme of agreement let me support one part of the Tenreyro interview .
Meanwhile these days the main player are bond yields making the official rate ever less important .
Why ?
The vast majority of new mortgages are at fixed interest-rates and with fiscal policy being deployed on such a scale they matter directly .

by Shaun Richards
The weekend just gone has provided another step or two in the dance being played out by the Bank of England on negative interest-rates. It was provided by external member Silvana Tenreyro in an interview published by The Telegraph on Saturday night. Perhaps she was unaware she was giving an interview to a media organisation with a paywall but this continued a poor recent trend of Bank of England policymakers making some more equal than others. As a recipient of a public salary interviews like this should be available to all and not some but it is not on the Bank of England website.
As to her views they were really rather extraordinary so let us investigate.
LONDON (Reuters) – The Bank of England’s investigation into whether negative rates might help the British economy through its current downturn has found “encouraging” evidence, policymaker Silvana Tenreyro said in an interview published late on Saturday.
It is not the fact that she may well vote for negative interest-rates that is a surprise as after all she told us this back on the 15th of July.
In June I therefore voted with the majority of the MPC to increase our stock of asset purchases. Lower gilt
yields and higher asset prices induced by QE will lead to some aggregate demand stimulus, although the low
prevailing level of the yield curve may reduce the impact somewhat, relative to some of the MPC’s previous
asset purchase announcements. As with the rest of the committee, I remain ready to vote for further action
as necessary to support the economy and ensure inflation returns to target.
So she voted for more QE ( Quantitative Easing ) bond purchases in spite of the fact that she felt the extra £100 billion would have a weaker impact than previous tranches. This means that with UK bond or Gilt yields continuing to be low and in some cases negative ( out to around 6/7 years in terms of maturity) then in any downturn that only really leaves lower interest-rates. As they are already a mere 0.1% that means a standard move of 0.25% would leave us at -0.15%
Something Extraordinary
I am pocking this out as even from a central bank Ivory Tower it is quite something.
Tenreyro said evidence from the euro zone and Japan showed that cutting interest rates below zero had succeeded in reducing companies’ borrowing costs and did not make it unprofitable for banks to lend.
Let me start with the latter point which is about it being profitable for banks to lend in a time of negative interest-rates. This is news to ECB Vice-President De Guindos who told us this last November.
Let me start with euro area banks, which have been reporting persistently low profitability in recent years. The aggregate return on equity of the sector slightly declined to less than 6% in the 12 months to June 2019. This weak performance is broad-based, with around 75% of significant banks generating returns below the 8% benchmark return demanded by investors for holding bank equity.
He went further that day and the emphasis is mine
The recent softening of the macroeconomic growth outlook and the associated low-for-longer interest rate environment are likely to weigh further on their profitability prospects. Many market analysts are concerned about the drag on bank profitability that could result from the negative impact of monetary policy accommodation on net interest margins. And net interest margins are indeed under pressure.
If we fast forward to last week there is this from Peter Bookvar on Twitter.
A chart of the Euro STOXX bank stock index. Record low. Please stop calling central bank policy ‘stimulus.’ It is ‘restrictive’ if it kills off profitability of banks.
Or there was this.
PARIS (Reuters) – Societe Generale (PA: ) is considering merging its two French retail networks in an attempt to boost profitability, after two consecutive quarterly losses due to poor trading results.
We do not often look at the French banks who have mostly moved under the radar but there is “trouble,trouble,trouble” ( h/t Taylor Swift) here too.
Shares in SocGen were up 1.2% to 11.9 euros at 0843 GMT, just above their lowest level in 27 years of 11.3 euros, after it said the review would be completed by the end of November.
So profitability is fine but share prices have collapsed? I guess Silvana must have an equity portfolio full of banks waiting for her triumph. Remember the ECB is presently throwing money at the banks by offering them money at -1% in an attempt to offset the problems created by negative interest-rates.
Another way of looking at bank stress was the surge in access to the US Federal Reserve Dollar liquidity swaps post March 19th. We saw the ECB and Bank of Japan leading the charge on behalf of banks in their jurisdictions. Intermediaries were unwilling to lend US Dollars to them as they feared they were in trouble which again contradicts our Silvana.
We are primarily funded by readers. Please subscribe and donate to support us!
As to companies borrowing costs they have fallen although there have been other factors at play. For example the bond purchases of the ECB will have implictly helped bu lowering yields and making corporate bonds more attractive. Also it has bought 233 billion Euros of corporate bonds which in itself suggests more was felt to be needed. Actually some 289 billion Euros of bank covered bonds have been bought which returns us to The Precious! The Precious!
Tractor Production is rising
Apparently all of that means this.
“The evidence has been encouraging,” she said, adding that cuts in interest rates below zero had been almost fully reflected in reductions in interest rates charged to borrowers. “Banks adapted well – their profitability increased with negative rates largely because impairments and loss provisions have decreased with the boost to activity and the increase in asset prices,” she said.
This really is the banking equivalent of Comical Ali or in football terms like saying Chelsea have a secure defence.
Comment
The picture here is getting ever more fuzzy. I have no issue with policymakers having different views and in fact welcome it. But I do have an issue with claims that are simply rubbish like the Silvana Tenreyro one that bank profitability has not been affected by negative interest-rates. Even one of her colleagues is correcting what is simply a matter of fact.
BOE’S RAMSDEN: ENGAGEMENT WITH BANKS ON NEGATIVE RATES WILL TAKE TIME……….BOE’S RAMSDEN: RATES ON RETAIL DEPOSITS TEND NOT TO FALL BELOW ZERO WHICH IS RELEVANT IN UK CONTEXT AFTER RING-FENCING…….BOE’S RAMSDEN: I SEE THE EFFECTIVE LOWER BOUND STILL AT 0.1%. ( @FinancialJuice)
However as is often the way with central banks he seems to be clinging to a theory that died over a decade ago.
BOE’S RAMSDEN: I STILL THINK THERE IS LIFE IN THE PHILLIPS CURVE, THE SLOPE MAY HAVE FLATTENED.
Later we will hear from Governor Bailey who only last week was trying to end the negative interest-rate rumours that he had begun. Oh Well!
Still there is one thing we can all agree on.
BOE’S RAMSDEN: THE BURDEN OF PROOF FOR ANY FUTURE RISE IN INTEREST RATES WILL BE HIGH.
Too high…..
Continuing a theme of agreement let me support one part of the Tenreyro interview.
“Flare-ups like we’re seeing may potentially lead to more localised lockdowns and will keep interrupting that V(-shaped recovery).”
Meanwhile these days the main player are bond yields making the official rate ever less important. Why? The vast majority of new mortgages are at fixed interest-rates and with fiscal policy being deployed on such a scale they matter directly.
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