After a strongly worded and sternly spoken address to Congress, through which the President outlined a jobs plan that seemed impossible for Republicans to oppose, the market would have been a sure bet to rally heartily Friday. But not even a millisecond passed after the President’s final word was spoken, when TV reporters announced breaking news.
A “credible but unconfirmed threat” was reported for the important American cities of New York and Washington DC. A warning was shared that al-Qaeda operatives may be plotting attacks in those cities for around the anniversary of 911. Security was stepped up almost immediately in those cities, and overseas markets have reacted. Stocks in the U.S. are lower to start the day as a result.
Thus, despite the President's effectively addressing my concerns regarding an economy I see slipping into recession, I still suggest investors temper enthusiasm Friday. Since September 11 falls on Sunday, investors are not likely to want to hold stocks through the weekend as a result. The reason for this is clear if one reviews the stock market action that followed September 11, 2001, which "smart money" is very well aware of. Thus, the rally that might have followed the President’s enthusing address has been effectively negated, perhaps by the sensible risk reduction of smart money investors.
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