The Great Taking

The global economy still runs through pipes, ports and chokepoints.

The Gulf remains the hinge between old energy and new industry.

Data centers need power. AI needs a stable infrastructure. The dollar system still prefers secure shipping lanes and orderly settlement.

Washington wants the Gulf calm enough to keep that architecture standing while the next layer of digital finance gets argued over in committee rooms and bank lobbies. Riyadh wants security, leverage and a larger chair at the table when the AI buildout starts choosing permanent winners.

Markets go through many Grey Swan cycles – moves that are rare, but forecastable.

Events unfolding in the Middle East fit a pattern… an 11-year cycle tied to sunspot activity.

There’s just something about collectibles. Perhaps it’s because you’re holding something tangible in your hand, not just a share of a company. I certainly get a lot of joy looking through my coin collection or researching prices on pieces I want to acquire someday. 

Collectibles had a moment in the sun in 2021 and 2022, as investors were looking for an inflation hedge. The space has cooled off a bit, making now an optimal time to consider investing in collectibles.

While today’s focus – and my personal interest – is in rare coins – you may be more interested in stamps, art, antiques, even vintage cars. In the collectible space, there’s something for everyone. That’s part of the joy.

More importantly, with collectibles out of favor, it may be a good asset to rotate some of your wealth into.

If the S&P 500 closes over 6,910 today, the index will be up for February and continue its strong performance since last April.

But, looking at the monthly relative strength index (RSI), the market is flashing an overbought signal.