Itokuda I could not agree more. When I was at a startup for network processors in 2000-2004 it was just like you described.

I agree it is a big con game that is essentially controlled by a select few. To me it is not unlike Vegas with alot more at stake except in Vegas you cannot play with the house except for dont pass and even then they give you crappy odds. It seems that to me the best way to make money is to simply use strong technical analysis and be super nimble. In and out, don’t fight the market, etc…

I am not good at it and like to read what people here do and how they perform.

I think that it is fascinating that there are still so many that subscribe to holding and leaving it as a long term investment. Similarly, if the dow does go down to 3000 or 4000 it seems like it may be a pretty good investmen opportunity. Hopefully this bear market rally will continue to afford opportunity to buy into some more negative correlated funds.