Every day in the news there is something said about the health of the economy. There are loads of pieces to the puzzle, and everyone is trying to pitch their spin on the events. There are so many facets to the economy...real estate, stocks, bonds, housing, oil, gold, international markets, manufacturing, transportation, factory orders, trade, commodities, financials, consumer confidence, and so much more. The problem is that there is never anyone that has the vision to look at the big picture and call the shots. However, this week Warren Buffet who is a multi-billionaire and has his hand in just about everything made a statement that for the most part went unnoticed. When interviewed by Der Spiegel Warren Buffet shared his views is the US is already in recession, and unlike others he feels this is going to be a long deep recession. However he also mentioned that he was still investing, and still buying! To me that makes sense. There are more millionaires made in a declining market than those that have lost their status. Baron Phillipe Rothschild once was quoted when he urged others to buy was "when there is blood in the streets." Sometimes...when we are at a time when there are no other buyers going in, it makes sense to do so. One should sell when the market is at its peak of euphoria and buy again at the lowest ebb of pessimism. What are your thoughts?
Warren has been buying overseas, Ford makes their money overseas, GM makes their money overseas, ... notice the pattern? Warren will buy in America, but only when the returns are spectacular (now he is in the bond insurance business). There is no doubt that select markets in America will do well, but the growth (and thus return) is overseas. American stocks and real estate will be purchased by foriegners as it is a relative bargain for them, but the American economy is going to be going sideways for a long time. There are great deals out there now, but only if you can make them cash flow without also consuming all your time. Just because its cheap doesn't mean its a good deal!!!!
Jim,
I just read the article Buffet has on yahoo news today....he is blaming all the banks for loose lending practices for giving people money that just really couldn't afford to buy a home.
Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (RE/MAX Premier Associates) I can agree with Warren on that for sure. They've been giving it away!
I would have to totally 100% agree with you!! Have a great Memorial day weekend Jim.
Bill Carrington (Walker Realestate and AssocThanks Bill have a great weekend!
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