I am in the belief that we have not seen our ultimate lows in the market.  We have not seen the type of capitulation selling you typically see at the market’s lows.  VIX and VXN continue to show the lack of fear in the market to show a real turn in market direction.  If you are a gambler, step away from the market.  This market is one for the birds and will present little (slim odds) upside potential.  Gamblers will look to place abnormal risky bets using far too much capital placing them at risk to be wiped out.  When the market is presenting such small odds for winning trades it is best you step aside and let it self work out.

The worse trait to have as a trader/investor is the gambler mentality.  All the greatest speculators in the world knew how to cut their losses and avoid trendless/bear markets.  Our current bear market is one that should be avoided all together.  IBD research has shown that Monster Stock gains arrive when we are at the beginning of a new bull market.  Why not use this research to our advantage and get a large cash position.  We can still find some stocks that are setting up nicely in a bear market but our odds are not as great as if it were a bull.  The key is to take profits a bit more quickly in bear markets and make sure you keep your losses small!  Not only will you see gains in your trading but you’ll be well capitalized for the next Bull Market!

Aloha,
Market Speculator

Last 5 posts by Market Speculator

• Quality Growth Stocks Lead the Way as Stocks Advance in Mixed Trade - June 2nd, 2009
• Re-Inflating the Bubble; Inflationary Pressue Lifting Stocks - June 1st, 2009
• Treasuries Begin Their Decline Striking Fear into the Stock Market - May 28th, 2009
• Follow on Twitter and Seeking Alpha - May 28th, 2009
• Sipping on a Cup of Coffee Deciphering Whether or Not The Stock Market is About to Make a Leg Down - May 11th, 2009