Second, this isn’t a bullish or bearish thread. I’m just thinking out loud. That’s how I use Twitter.
Okay, let’s dive in.
Personally, I would prefer to see an overreaction. Overreactions are preventive.
When there is an overreaction, it’s preparation for the absolute worst, which leaves surprise when that’s wrong.
Under reacting, however, is slightly more concerning to me.
If it turns out to be *worse* than planned, you’re left unprepared and behind.
“the market recovered from Ebola?”
“SARS barely phased the market”
Yes, in each instance markets went higher.
But, viruses don’t care about history or charts.
I think the Coronavirus will be contained. But, I am also not ignorant to the small percentage chance that it may not.
Now here’s where things get really important as an investor. You have to have clean information.
There’s also *a lot of fake news* going on about the virus.
Trust no video you see unless it’s been confirmed by a real source and trust no data points unless it’s also been confirmed.
In addition, no one can say whether it’s mostly contained to one region or moving it’s way around the world.
Just wash your hands.
There’s more travel today and cities are denser. It would make more sense for a virus to take off. It’s a perfect recipe.
BUT...
Over the last few days, I’ve noticed something inspiring:
Scientists across the globe are working in real-time, on Twitter, sharing data sets, opening up research, and collaborating.
That is the best defense. Smart people working together.
I now understand why some investors are obsessed with stocks like Alteryx or Splunk and why Salesforce bought Tableau.
It’s also why I continue to be bullish on the blue bird – Twitter.
The opportunity cost of overreacting, say having a little more cash than usual, is low compared to under reacting, and it being worse than imagined, especially when the variability of risk is so large.
I’m still pretty invested.
But I’m a little more defensive at the moment.
Remember, this is just *my strategy* and you are free to do you. Don’t take my advice or others without doing your own research. Everyone has different needs and risks.
@DrEricDing
@MackayIM
@ScottGottliebMD
@HelenBranswell
@mvankerkhove
@statnews
@TheLancet
@K_G_Andersen