Group 1 - Jim Wyckoff has over 25 years of experience in stock, financial, and commodity markets, including roles as a financial journalist and reporter on commodity futures trading floors in Chicago and New York [1] - He has covered every futures market traded in the U.S. at various times throughout his career [1] - Jim is the owner of "Jim Wyckoff on the Markets," which provides analytical, educational, and trading advisory services [2] Group 2 - He has worked as a technical analyst for Dow Jones Newswires and served as the senior market analyst with TraderPlanet.com [2] - Jim is also a consultant for the respected "Pro Farmer" agricultural advisory service and was the head equities analyst at CapitalistEdge.com [2] - He holds a degree in journalism and economics from Iowa State University [2]

Group 1 - The world is characterized by a bipolar structure dominated by the United States and China as the two main economic powers [1] - The article reflects a passion for geopolitics and macroeconomics, indicating a focus on understanding global economic dynamics [1] Group 2 - The author expresses a commitment to expanding knowledge through writing and engaging with the investment community [1] - There is an emphasis on analyzing companies of interest, particularly those within the author's investment portfolio [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing protests against the Federal Reserve, highlighting public dissatisfaction with its policies and actions [1][2]. Group 1: Protests Against the Federal Reserve - Protests have been organized to express discontent with the Federal Reserve's monetary policies, which many believe have contributed to economic inequality [1]. - The protests are gaining traction, with participants calling for greater accountability and transparency from the Federal Reserve [2]. Group 2: Economic Context - The protests are set against a backdrop of rising inflation and interest rates, which have affected various sectors of the economy [1]. - Public sentiment is increasingly critical of the Federal Reserve's role in managing the economy, with many citizens feeling the impact of its decisions on their daily lives [2].

Market Analysis - Fracking 的出现使得全球石油价格变得低廉 [1] - 以黄金计价，石油价格远低于 20 世纪中叶以来的水平 [1] - 发达国家的重要商品（住房、医疗、教育、食品）价格显著上涨 [1]

Geopolitical Landscape - Mastercard's Johan Gerber indicates a trend towards increased sovereignty and geopolitical isolation [1] Technology & Digital Economy - The discussion took place at Bloomberg Tech's BTechDigitalEconomy event [1]

Energy was the worst sector today with every component closing lower in the red. Performers include APA, Marathon Petroleum, Philips 66. Why are we seeing such a drastic move lower and will it continue.Joining us now, Bill Perkins. He is the founder, managing partner, and head trader for Skyler Capital, an energy focused fund. And Bill, it's great to have you back on the show.Welcome. >> Thanks. Great to be back.A lot to get into here, but first I do want to start with the move we've seen in crude oil uh an ...

Donald Trump will continue to shape global trade, economics and geopolitics in 2026. The World Ahead is a handy guide to what the year ahead may have in store https://t.co/tE8pZiXidH https://t.co/Xfb2YhJqW8 ...

After a record-breaking rise, gold has now seen a sharp correction that shows little sign of ending. Was that just "a" top, or have we already seen "the" top? The state of geopolitics and trust in institutions may hold the answers. https://t.co/lZqcFwhtrY ...

We did see Donald Trump deplane. He is, of course, officially arrived in Tokyo. Do for, I believe, the second stop on his Asian tour.He'll be going to South Korea later this week to have that high stakes conversation with his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping. Already, of course, a very quick turnaround when it comes to the conversation in Malaysia. There he is arriving in Tokyo.He's due to meet with the Japanese emperor today and then he goes on to have a working lunch and meet with Taki ichi. That ...

Core Viewpoint - Gold continues to play a significant role in investment portfolios as a hedge against volatility and inflation, especially in the context of geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties [3][4][19]. Gold as an Investment - Gold is viewed as a long-standing monetary asset and a store of value, providing protection against inflation over the last 200 years [3]. - Current gold prices are trading above $2150 per ounce, reflecting its status as a safe haven amid global volatility [4]. - The recent sell-off in cryptocurrencies raises questions about their reliability as a safe haven compared to gold [3]. Market Dynamics - The U.S. 10-year bond yields approximately 4%, but inflation-adjusted yields are significantly lower, making stocks more attractive with a 4% to 5% earnings yield [5][6]. - International markets are currently cheaper than U.S. markets, presenting investment opportunities, particularly in defense spending due to geopolitical shifts [14][15]. Geopolitical Considerations - Geopolitical risks, including tensions in Europe and Asia, are influencing investment strategies, with a focus on defense technology and innovation [8][9]. - The Alpha Opportunities Fund is positioned to capitalize on these shifts, overweighting allies and underweighting vulnerable regions [7][9]. Future Outlook - The ongoing AI narrative and increased defense spending are expected to drive long-term market growth, with Japan identified as an underloved market with potential [18]. - Despite anticipated volatility, stocks are favored over bonds for long-term investment, with gold serving as a diversification tool [19].