Market Trends & Observations - Meme stock trading is making a comeback, with stocks like American Eagle, Kohl's, Open Door, Krispy Kreme, and GoPro experiencing double-digit gains this week [1] - There's an undercurrent of retail enthusiasm and individual investors are embracing risk, stepping in during April [2] - The market is exhibiting a "flight to crap" phenomenon, indicating individuals are taking on ever more risk in search of returns [4] - The last time the S&P 500 hit record highs for consecutive days was November 2021, before a significant market correction [8] - The Nasdaq 100 peaked in November 2021, and the S&P 500 peaked on the first day of 2022, before a market downturn [10] Investment Strategies & Recommendations - Investors should consider defensive sectors, cash, or short-term fixed income as places to hide [5] - Avoid chasing meme stocks, as those buying calls the day before in low-priced, heavily shorted names are often left "holding the bag" [7] - Focus on stocks with dividends and solid earnings, rather than chasing the "hot story of the day" [8] - Investors should assess if they are overweighted in certain risky stocks and avoid crypto treasury companies and SPACs [13][14] - Consider lightening up on margin trades [14] Risk Assessment & Cautionary Notes - The market has a way of punishing the largest number of people at the worst possible time, suggesting caution is warranted [11] - Investors should be perceptive of the idea that things can be tricky from time to time [11]