To The Moon

My Investing Muse (29Dec25)

Layoffs, Bankruptcy & Closure news

This offshoring jobs to India and other countries thing was already happening. It has been for quite some time. - X user Amanda Goodall

L.A.’s entertainment economy is spiralling downward: Work is evaporating, businesses are closing, and the city’s creative middle class is hanging on by a thread. - WSJ

"The job market is so bad, people in their 40s are resorting to going back to school instead of looking for work," per FORTUNE

“Auto Delinquencies Hit Record High as Consumers Caught Off Guard.” “PYMNTS Intelligence data showed that 34% of consumers who live paycheck to paycheck and struggle to pay their bills have had to spend more than usual in the past six months, which in turn has eaten into their savings. The cost of food has been a critical stressor cited by 56% of consumers interviewed by PYMNTS Intelligence. Additionally, 55% of consumers said the same about inflation, and 23% said rising costs are their greatest source of financial stress….” - X user Kristen Shaughnessy

My Final Thoughts

As 2025 ends, the market hits a new high, with record prices in gold and silver highlighting complex investor sentiment. While bond prices are expected to rise, the market shows mixed directions, causing some to question indicator reliability. This mix of bullish and bearish outlooks reflects the indicators’ purpose—to illuminate market possibilities amid uncertainty.

Technical conditions suggest potential for a Santa Claus rally, alongside tax-loss harvesting that may increase short-term volatility. Market participation is growing, often driven by workforce retrenchment as individuals turn to trading for income during job searches.

Debt levels remain a concern, and recent figures show rising delinquency and default rates, matching past recessionary periods and raising risk for year-end investors. 2026 looks to be a year of volatility.

Financial Strategy and Outlook

Let us spend within our means, invest only what we can afford to lose, and avoid leverage. Let us review our current holdings with the intention of divesting from businesses that are losing their competitive advantages. Additionally, I will consider adding both hedging strategies and defensive positions to our portfolio to mitigate risk.

As we move forward, it is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence before assuming any new responsibilities.

Wishing everyone a successful week ahead.

@TigerStars

$S&P 500(.SPX)$

$Vanguard S&P 500 ETF(VOO)$

$Cboe Volatility Index(VIX)$