Market Movements and Timeless Wisdom: A Financial Guide

Missed the boat? How do you know. Stock rises 200%, at all time highs. Is that it? Too late? What are your options now if you didn't get in? Walk away, ignore it? Or is there some strategy to manage risk, and still continue the ride? Especially if the stock looks cheap.

Apple stock and what my pension did next. Weekly updates used to be in my Financial Times column - now on www.alpeshpatel.com/links

The children of English, French, German, Italian, Scandinavian, and other European parentage, quickly merge into the mass of our population and lose the distincitive hallmarks of their European origin.?

On the other hand, it cannot be doubted that the children born in this country of Hindu parents would retain indefinitely the clear evidence of their ancestry.?

The U.S. Supreme Court –

“1. Is a high caste Hindu of full Indian blood, born at AmritSar, Punjab, India, a white person within the meaning of section 2169, Revised Statutes?”

What we suggest is merely racial difference, and it is of such character and extent that the great body of our people instinctively recognise it and reject the thought of assimilation.

It may be true that the blond Scandinavian and the brown Hindu have a common ancestor in the dim reaches of antiquity, but the average man knows perfectly well that there are unmistakable and profound differences between them to-day.?

We venture to think that the average well informed white American would learn with some degree of astonishment that the race to which he belongs is made up of such heterogeneous elements.?

It is not likely that Congress would be willing to accept as citizens a class of persons whom it rejects as immigrants.?

——

All of the above quoted from the US Supreme Court decision: U.S. v. BHAGAT SINGH THIND. A century ago. The time the India League was established - of which I am today proudly the President. www.theindialeague.org ?

Lest we forget the battles.

If one door closes - here are some options:

1. It may be a good thing - room behind it might be on fire. Sometimes doors are trapdoors.

2. Use it for resilience and determination to find a bigger better door

3. Put on your heavy boots and smash it down

4. There is always a window - jump through that (in a good way not downwards!)

5. There is usually a back door.

6. Get in with others who have the key.

7. Access via the roof. Ie go to the top.

8. If all else fails. Make your own bloody door.

Fortune Favours the Prepared Mind: A Stoic Approach to Professional and Business Luck - thank you team. Feel very lucky.?

The thread of luck is often perceived as an elusive and uncontrollable force.?

However, as the Stoics would argue, what we term as “luck” is often the convergence of preparation, opportunity, and a mindset attuned to resilience and virtue.?

For the professional and the entrepreneur, fostering this type of luck requires a disciplined approach to self-improvement and strategic action.?

1. Embrace the Discipline of Preparation

Seneca, one of the great Stoic philosophers, famously remarked, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” This perspective highlights the foundational role of preparation in any successful venture. In a professional context.

?? Continually hone your skills.

?? Expand your knowledge.

?? Stay abreast of industry trends.

?? Invest in education and training through workshops, certifications, and lifelong learning.

This constant readiness not only sharpens your expertise but also places you at the forefront when opportunities arise.

2. Cultivate a Resilient Mindset

Stoicism teaches us to differentiate between what we can control and what we cannot. Epictetus advised focusing on our own actions and responses rather than external events. In the business world:

?? Build resilience against setbacks and failures.

?? View obstacles as learning opportunities.

?? Assess what can be learned from failures and apply these lessons moving forward.

This adaptability strengthens your character and prepares you to seize future opportunities with renewed wisdom.

3. Network with Integrity

In the interconnected world of business, relationships are invaluable. The Stoic principle of virtue underscores the importance of integrity in all interactions:

?? Build a network based on trust, respect, and mutual benefit.

?? Be genuinely interested in others and seek to provide value in your connections.

?? Approach networking as a chance to build lasting, meaningful relationships, not as a transactional activity.

This authenticity fosters goodwill and often leads to serendipitous opportunities.

4. Seize the Moment with Courage

Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck, was often depicted with a forelock to signify that she must be grasped when she approaches. In business:

?? Take bold and decisive action when opportunities present themselves.

?? Embrace calculated risks and step out of your comfort zone.

?? Launch new projects, pivot your business model, or explore uncharted markets.

Courage propels you forward, and with great risk often comes great reward.

5. Reflect and Adapt

The practice of regular reflection, as advocated by the Stoics, ensures continuous growth and adaptation. Marcus Aurelius frequently reflected on his actions and thoughts, seeking improvement.

In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I’ve been turning over in my mind ever since.

“Whenever you feel like criticising any one,” he told me, “just remember that all the people in this world haven’t had the advantages that you’ve had.”

That was my advice to a young man who asked me on a social media live broadcast from here how he should stop comparing himself to others the same age.

It’s the opening paragraph to the Great Gatsby.

The central tower is an allusion to the Holy Sepulchre in Israel. The central altar indicates a very precise ideological program: the sacred sacrament of the Eucharist irradiating over a city that was still Muslim.

As the great man said

The aggregate of our joy and suffering, thousands of confident religions, ideologies, and economic doctrines, every hunter and forager, every hero and coward, every creator and destroyer of civilization, every king and peasant, every young couple in love, every mother and father, hopeful child, inventor and explorer, every teacher of morals, every corrupt politician, every "superstar," every "supreme leader," every saint and sinner in the history of our species lived there--on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam.

Think of the rivers of blood spilled by all those generals and emperors so that, in glory and triumph, they could become the momentary masters of a fraction of a dot.?

Think of the endless cruelties visited by the inhabitants of one corner of this pixel on the scarcely distinguishable inhabitants of some other corner, how frequent their misunderstandings, how eager they are to kill one another, how fervent their hatreds.

Our posturings, our imagined self-importance, the delusion that we have some privileged position in the Universe, are challenged by this point of pale light.?

Carl Sagan

Okay, so in Spain to give investment talks. Top Tips for Carrying the Digital Nomad Lifestyle to the UK

1. Choose the Right City

While London is a fantastic hub with a wealth of opportunities and resources, consider other cities as well.?

Cities like Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Leeds offer vibrant tech communities, lower living costs, and a great quality of life. Each city has its unique charm and can cater to different preferences and professional needs.

2. Find Reliable Co-working Spaces

Co-working spaces are vital for digital nomads to maintain productivity and network with like-minded professionals. London boasts a plethora of options, such as WeWork, The Office Group, and Huckletree. These spaces provide high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a conducive work environment. Research and choose spaces that align with your professional needs and budget.

3. Engage with the Local Community

Networking is crucial for any digital nomad. Engage with local communities through meet-ups, professional groups, and online forums. Platforms like Meetup and Eventbrite are excellent for finding local events related to your industry. Building a network in the UK can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

4. Manage Your Finances Wisely

Living in the UK, particularly in London, can be expensive. Budgeting and managing your finances are critical. Use financial apps like Monzo or Revolut for tracking expenses and setting budgets. Additionally, consider getting a UK bank account to facilitate easier transactions and avoid foreign transaction fees.

5. Stay Updated with Tax Regulations

Understanding the tax implications of working as a digital nomad in the UK is essential. The UK has specific rules regarding income tax for residents and non-residents. Consulting with a tax advisor who understands international tax laws can help you stay compliant and optimise your tax situation.

6. Prioritise Work-Life Balance

The UK offers a plethora of leisure activities and cultural experiences. Ensure you strike a balance between work and leisure to avoid burnout. Explore the rich history, visit iconic landmarks, and participate in local festivals and events to fully immerse yourself in the UK experience.

7. Utilise Tech Tools for Productivity

Maximise your productivity with the right tech tools. Apps like Calendly, Slack, and Asana can help you manage projects and communicate effectively with your team, no matter where you are. Cloud storage solutions like Google Drive and Dropbox ensure your documents are accessible and secure.

8. Prepare for the Weather

The UK’s weather can be unpredictable, especially if you’re used to sunnier climates like Spain. Pack accordingly, with layers and waterproof clothing, to stay comfortable throughout the year. Weather apps can help you stay prepared for sudden changes in weather, ensuring your outdoor plans aren’t disrupted.

These walls that have witnessed the rise and fall of empires also echo the cries of those who have suffered in the crossfires of religious and political strife in Europe.

Countless lives lost in the name of God - the desire and lust for control.

Throughout history, men have waged wars, justified atrocities, and persecuted others, all under the banner of religious righteousness.

Those who have suffered in the name of faith - where the pursuit of paradise is an excuse for violence.

They call on us to build bridges rather than walls, to plant seeds of peace rather than discord. And in doing so, they show us that the true essence of heaven is not found in the afterlife.

I uploaded this and asked AI to read the image and tell me what won’t spike insulin and why.

?

Imagine the apps you can create for those willing to pay for UX and a bit more. The key will be ability to reach market cheaply. Ie build that media audience.?

To maintain stable insulin levels, it's important to choose fruits and vegetables that have a low glycemic index (GI). The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food can raise your blood sugar levels. Generally, foods with a GI of 55 or less are considered low-GI foods and are better for maintaining steady blood sugar levels.

From the fruit and vegetable stall in your picture, here are some items you can buy that are less likely to spike your insulin:

1. Avocados: These are visible in the bottom center of the image. Avocados are very low in carbohydrates and have a negligible effect on blood sugar. They are high in healthy fats, fiber, and various nutrients.

2. Berries: There are several packs of what appear to be blackberries and possibly blueberries on the bottom right side of the image. Berries generally have a lower GI compared to other fruits. They are high in fiber and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for blood sugar management.

3. Peaches: Located in the bottom right, peaches have a moderate glycemic index but can be consumed in moderation due to their fiber content.

4. Grapefruit: There is a section with oranges and possibly grapefruit in the top middle part of the image. Grapefruit has a lower GI compared to many other fruits and can be consumed in moderate amounts.

5. Oranges: Also seen in the top middle, oranges have a moderate glycemic index. Eating them whole, rather than juicing them, will help maintain stable blood sugar levels due to their fiber content.

Avoid fruits like bananas, grapes, and dates, which tend to have higher glycemic indices and can spike blood sugar levels more rapidly.?

When consuming fruits, portion control is key, as even low-GI fruits can impact blood sugar if eaten in large quantities. Pairing fruits with a source of protein or healthy fat can also help mitigate blood sugar spikes.

In addition to choosing low-GI fruits, make sure to maintain a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall blood sugar management.

A tiny often wet and cold island off the west coast of Europe with not even 1 percent of the world's population right up there.?

No wonder they had the self belief to ask "And was the holy Lamb of God on Englands pleasant pastures seen!"?

Even when the word of God told them Jerusalem is elsewhere, "no" it is here on this small archipelago they wrote.?

No ordinary peoples by word or deed.?

"Bring me my Bow of burning gold:

Bring me my Arrows of desire:

Bring me my Spear: O clouds unfold:

Bring me my Chariot of fire!

I will not cease from Mental Fight,

Nor shall my Sword sleep in my hand:

Till we have built Jerusalem,

In Englands green & pleasant Land."

Lest there be any doubt

The S&P500 returned you 15%pa for past 10 years in GBP - for all those Brits worried about 'Currency Risk'! Not holding GBP mitigated your currency risk. www.alpeshpatel.com/links

How will the housing market pan out in the next year, according to our expert economics editor?Taking Stock with Investors’ Chronicle and Alpesh B Patel OBE : Discover our latest conversation with IC economics editor, Hermione Taylor .

Check out our unmissable conversation with Hermione Taylor and Alpesh Patel OBE, author of ‘Investing Unplugged’, as they discuss a macro-economic analysis and what it means for your portfolio.

Alpesh Patel OBE

www.campaignforamillion.com

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