2008-09-17
The Period of Intense Change has Begun.
Additional Disclaimer: Following are highly speculative predictions based on little more then my personal observations, recent headlines, knowledge of history and my uncanny ability to link together long chains of related events to form an overall situational picture. I don't advocate any particular actions or reactions and make no particular claim that my predictions will come true. You are welcome to consider the following and add your comments, but any other use of this information is strictly at your own risk.
The recent wholesale collapse of major US financial institutions and the "too little, too late" government response will, in the future, be seen as a major turning point in the history of the US, much like the stock market crash of 1929. If the slow motion implosion of Wall Street continues, (and I don't see any reason why it won't,) it will drive investors away from US markets causing the value of the Dollar resume it's long slide. This will lead to $200 a barrel crude and $5/gal gas in the next 12 to 18 months (maybe less). As a result of this persistent and relentless inflation, the US will experience economic upheaval not seen since the great depression.
WWI and the great depression marked the emergence of the US as a true global super power. The "War on Terror" and the impending economic crush (it won't be a fast crash but will slowly continue for decades), will mark the end of the US as a world dominating power.
The future of economic, political and cultural power now lies with China, India and in another decade or two Africa. Latin America will be seen as an example of moderation and stability. The economic fallout of an imploding US economy will re-fracture Europe mostly along socialist lines as some countries will demand that their governments do more to help those suffering economically.
The world as we know it today, will not exist in 20 years. And for a hundred years, none of the generations that follow the American Baby Boomers will be as well off. The economic and political unrest will result in a steady erosion of the freedoms traditionally enjoyed Americans. Following one or maybe two nationally traumatic events, we will see the emergence of the first in a long line of American dictators.
My only advice is to have a plan, but plan flexibly.
The recent wholesale collapse of major US financial institutions and the "too little, too late" government response will, in the future, be seen as a major turning point in the history of the US, much like the stock market crash of 1929. If the slow motion implosion of Wall Street continues, (and I don't see any reason why it won't,) it will drive investors away from US markets causing the value of the Dollar resume it's long slide. This will lead to $200 a barrel crude and $5/gal gas in the next 12 to 18 months (maybe less). As a result of this persistent and relentless inflation, the US will experience economic upheaval not seen since the great depression.
WWI and the great depression marked the emergence of the US as a true global super power. The "War on Terror" and the impending economic crush (it won't be a fast crash but will slowly continue for decades), will mark the end of the US as a world dominating power.
The future of economic, political and cultural power now lies with China, India and in another decade or two Africa. Latin America will be seen as an example of moderation and stability. The economic fallout of an imploding US economy will re-fracture Europe mostly along socialist lines as some countries will demand that their governments do more to help those suffering economically.
The world as we know it today, will not exist in 20 years. And for a hundred years, none of the generations that follow the American Baby Boomers will be as well off. The economic and political unrest will result in a steady erosion of the freedoms traditionally enjoyed Americans. Following one or maybe two nationally traumatic events, we will see the emergence of the first in a long line of American dictators.
My only advice is to have a plan, but plan flexibly.
2008-09-05
My new favorate YouTube video
YouTube - Large Hadron Rap:
Quantum physics geek chick rapping about the cutting edge particle accelerator. 'nuff said.
Quantum physics geek chick rapping about the cutting edge particle accelerator. 'nuff said.
Copyright by Tom Sayles.
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