There is a very interesting article in today's Seattle Times. With stock investors getting more jittery with each passing day, it's important to put the recent market turmoil in some kind of historical perspective.
"Recessions on average last 216 days, or just over seven months, and stocks post an average 8.64 percent decline during the first half of the pullback, according to Citigroup data dating back to 1953."
It's important to keep in mind that the markets topped in late October, which means that we are about half way through the current economic softening. We are also much farther down than the average 8.64% decline, as we are almost double that in term of broad market losses.
So why be optimistic?
Comfort Zone Investing: The unmighty dollar
Five winners of a weak dollar
For a quick-read on the U.S. economy, check the price of gasoline
