A new year begins and guess what? Everything basically stays the same. Sure, New York City got a new mayor and the Patriots are one weekend closer to a Super Bowl win, but besides that the markets and interest rates have stayed put, the economy continues to sputter along and we are all that much closer to spring. Sure, we did see a little pullback in equities over the last few days but nothing of substance. Rates in the new Yellin era are expected to go up but the market’s reaction to the news of her confirmation was muted, to say the least. I believe that we’re going to have more of the same old 2013 in 2014. I don’t think it’s reasonable to expect interest rates to rise dramatically in the next six to twelve months, nor do I expect a significant equity market downturn. That being said, I have little if any real experience predicting markets and interest rates, so I guess my comments are just opinions, and you know what they say about opinions.
I am, however, sure that the hedge fund industry is poised for great things in 2014. I am making this comment based on the uptick in activity that we are experiencing with membership to HEDGEAnswers.com. We have seen a significant increase in numbers of those logging onto the site and getting involved with our community. People are anxious to launch hedge funds and they are turning to HEDGEAnswers for information. The same can be said of the convergence of the traditional and alternative investment management industries. Our Operations for Alternatives for community is seeing its membership grow and interest in our event in March is extremely high. The convergence of traditional and alternative products and firms is real and it is happening. People are focused on launching new products and developing new distribution channels and Operations for Alternatives is showing that it’s a great time to be in the asset management industry. My prediction for 2014 is for a great ride for both traditional and alternative managers and that the real winners are going to be the investors. So stay focused, stay warm, and enjoy the New Year, because there’s a lot of great stuff ahead. Also don’t forget to register for the next HEDGEAnswers call which is January 15 at 10 am – click here to get in on the discussion.
THINGS THAT DRIVE ME CRAZY
I’m sick and tired of hearing people complain about every little thing. Recently I was on vacation with my family and it seemed the only things I heard from people’s mouths was a constant stream of complaints about everything and anything. The water was too wet, the sun was too bright, the air was too cool, the air was too hot, the drinks were not cold enough and the towels were not soft
enough. Well, enough,already! People need to step back, relax, and focus on what’s important, which is spending time with your family, enjoying the company of those who are around you and not pecking away at every little thing. I’m sick and tired of the complaining. I know now I’m complaining myself, but really, it’s enough already. It’s like the new national pastime in this country is to complain about everything. Can the water be too wet? Can the sun be too bright? Can the air be too cool or too hot? I mean come on. Really, it is more than enough already.