☕ Tariff tantrums 2.0, what’s an investor to do?

Howdy! 👋 

US markets are closed today in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, so we’ll keep it nice and tight. 

Like many, I am super focused on Greenland. 

There is no question that what’s happening potentially sets up a significant global risk alignment short-term. Traders could have a field day as volatility rises into any selloff. 

However – and this is key – it also sets up what just may be a historic buying opportunity for smart investors who can keep their nerves on the sidelines. 

I know it’s not easy – I feel the angst too – but try anyway. 

History is very clear. 

• The Panic of 1873 helped set up the rise of industrial titans.  
• World War I chaos preceded the Roaring ’20s.  
• The Great Depression birthed generational fortunes for buyers of quality.  
• World War II uncertainty set the stage for America’s golden economic age.  
• 1987 rewarded disciplined buyers within months.  
• The dot-com bust paved the way for Amazon, Google, and Apple.  
• The Global Financial Crisis handed out once-in-a-lifetime entries in banks, tech, and housing. 
• COVID panic? One of the fastest and most powerful bull markets in history. 

People say, “Greenland is different” and they’re right – it is. 

Just not like many think. 

• Nixon closing the gold window in 1971, rewired currencies and launched a decade-long commodities boom. 
• The 1990-1991 Gulf War, triggered by Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, caused a sharp spike in oil prices and bolstered defense and energy sectors amid heightened global tensions. 
• China’s 2001 entry into the WTO reshaped global supply chains and created generational winners. 
• The 2003 Iraq War disrupted Middle Eastern oil production, leading to volatility in energy markets and opportunities in reconstruction and security industries.  
• The Eurozone debt crisis peaking around 2010-2012 revealed vulnerabilities in the common currency, enforcing austerity and creating bargains in sovereign bonds and real estate for savvy investors. 
• Brexit triggered chaos — then handed disciplined buyers discounted global assets. 
• Russia’s invasion of Ukraine redrew energy markets overnight. 
• U.S.–China trade wars permanently altered manufacturing, semiconductors, and capital flows and are still ushering in an entirely new landscape of profit potential. 

Take a good hard look at this chart if you’re uncertain – and you’re not alone if you are btw. 

I have it taped to my office wall for just such occasions. 

Many folks are getting ready to panic sell when the markets open. Others are wondering if they’re best served by running for the hills.  

I can almost guarantee you that the world’s most successful investors are getting ready to buy if there’s a “sale.” 

I hope you’re among ‘em. 

The markets have a very defined upward bias over time, which is why it makes all sorts of sense to play to that. 

What you buy is important, but how you buy is critical. 

If you’re an OBAer – and I know many of 5 with Fitzers are – please keep an eye on your email for this week’s One Bar Ahead® update and – in it – considerably more detail including two moves to make right away when the markets reopen, gold and more. 

Meanwhile, here’s a quick look at how I see the situation this morning based on what we know so far and my take on why Netflix could be a big runner this year… what to look for and why. (Watch) 

Bottom Line 

Play offense, even if you must think defensively to do it. 

Why? 

People think you make your money in bull markets, but the real profits almost inevitably get made when the bears come out to play. 

As always, let’s MAKE it a great day and start the week strong. 

You got this — I promise! 

Keith 😀