Mind Games: A Dire Prediction
Last month, a bold and concerning prediction appeared in popular social media feeds:
“Sell Your Stocks and Move Your Money Before May 2nd, or You May Never Recover.”
Encountering such a bold and alarming prediction can evoke concern and fear among investors, potentially leading them to seek “safety” by converting their investments into cash.
Thinking About Predictions
When feelings about investments arise, it’s crucial to pause and reflect. In this situation, we should assess the track record of the forecaster. After conducting some research, we discover that this company had previously made the same prediction with a January 31st deadline, which clearly did not materialize. They have since updated it to May 2nd. One can’t help but wonder about the date they will choose for their next prediction.
We may also want to evaluate how we received this information. The prediction arrived through a social media feed and was labeled as “sponsored,” indicating it was a paid advertisement. It raises questions about why the company needed to promote their prediction in this manner.
Considering that this is essentially an advertisement, it’s essential to question the motives behind this ominous prediction and understand their end game. In this case, their goal is to sell you their investment newsletter. Evidently, they generate more revenue from subscriptions than their stock market predictions.
Making Sound Decisions
Irrespective of the prediction’s content, practicing skepticism is of paramount importance. The bolder and more extreme the prediction, the greater the need for skepticism and discernment. If we find ourselves drawn to such predictions, we should seek additional information to either validate or debunk them.
Above all, our role is to assist you in this process. That’s why we’re here! We are equipped to address any headlines, predictions, or concerns you may have and ensure that all your financial decisions align with your stated goals and objectives. By working together, we can safeguard your financial future from the influence of sensationalized predictions and guide you towards informed decisions that are in your best interest.
If you’re considering working with us here at Mosaic, we invite you to learn more about who we serve and how we help them. You can also contact us with any questions you have.
By Anthony C. Williams, CWS, ChFC, MRFC, CLU | Investment Advisor Representative | President & Founding Partner of Mosaic Financial Associates & Orthopaedist Advisory Group | Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/dealer and a Registered Investment Advisor. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.
© The Behavioral Finance Network
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