RETHINKING INVESTMENT WISDOM WITH CHRIS VERMEULEN


In the latest episode of The Common Cents Show, host Micah delves into the unconventional investment philosophies of Chris Vermeulen, an entrepreneur and financial expert known for challenging traditional investment strategies. This discussion sheds light on why diversification might not be the protective strategy many investors believe it to be.Chris Vermeulen: The Anti-Diversification Advocate


Chris starts the conversation by highlighting his extensive background in trading across all asset classes, from small-cap stocks to futures and currencies. His primary tool? Technical analysis, which he uses to navigate the markets, ignoring the noise from news, earnings reports, and even the Federal Reserve.Chris’s main contention is that diversification is often misapplied by everyday investors. He argues that diversification, as commonly practiced, can lead to underperformance and increased risk. According to Chris, the stock market behaves like the ocean—"When the tide goes up, all boats rise; when it goes down, all sink." This analogy beautifully captures the pitfalls of over-diversification within a single asset class, such as stocks.The Real Deal on ETFs and Asset MovementChris expresses a particular affinity for ETFs, considering them a revolutionary tool in investing. He emphasizes that successful investing requires moving dynamically between asset classes based on their performance trends, not holding onto losing assets due to attachment or misplaced belief in their eventual recovery.Investment Principles for Today's Market
During the show, Chris shares some guiding principles for investors:

  1. Follow the Price: Price action should dictate your investments, not the news cycle or market pundits.
  2. Timing Isn’t Everything, But Trend Is: While Chris avoids the term "timing the market," he advocates for trend following—investing in assets that are currently increasing in value.
  3. Unconventional Wisdom: Contrary to popular belief, Chris believes that you can make educated decisions on when to enter and exit the market.

A Word of CautionIt's essential to note, as Mike does in his disclaimer, that Chris's advice is based on his personal experiences and is intended for educational purposes. Investors should consult with professionals tailored to their specific situations.Conclusion: Is It Time to Revise Your Investment Strategy?This thought-provoking discussion with Chris Vermeulen on The Common Cents Show challenges many established norms about investing.

For those looking to refine their investment strategies, considering Chris’s approach may provide a fresh perspective on achieving growth and avoiding common pitfalls.