Latest from the desk

Research

  • How these notes work

    Notes are short. Two paragraphs, sometimes three. They show up when something on the screen warrants a sentence — a print that doesn’t match the narrative, a structure that’s been holding for longer than it should, a level that the order book keeps defending. Not a thesis. Not a recommendation. Just the observation, with enough…

  • Decoding the Fear Gauge: Contango vs. Backwardation

    The Veteran’s Desk: VIX Term Structure Analysis Quantitative Analysis Desk Welcome to the desk. I’ve spent the better part of 2 decades looking at derivatives, flows, and volatility. Let’s break down backwardation and contango in the volatility instruments. The Term Structure Viewer The VIX itself is an index, not a tradable asset. To trade volatility,…

  • The Affects of Warren Buffett Departing Berkshire Hathaway: A New Era Begins

    In a significant turning point for one of the world’s most renowned conglomerates, Warren Buffett, the legendary 94-year-old “Oracle of Omaha,” announced during Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting on May 3, 2025, that he will step down as CEO at the end of the year. While this news marks the end of an extraordinary 60-year leadership…

  • The Ultimate Guide to Alternative Asset Investing with Self-Directed Retirement Accounts

    In an era of market volatility and inflation concerns, savvy investors are increasingly looking beyond the stock market to build wealth. Alternative assets – from real estate and precious metals to private equity and cryptocurrency – offer powerful diversification opportunities that can enhance returns while potentially reducing overall portfolio risk. And there’s no better vehicle…

  • Self-Directed 401(k) Plans: The Ultimate Retirement Solution for Self-Employed Professionals

    For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners, retirement planning presents unique challenges and opportunities. While traditional employment often comes with built-in 401(k) plans, self-employed professionals need to forge their own path. Enter the self-directed 401(k) – a powerful retirement vehicle that combines exceptional contribution limits with remarkable investment flexibility. Understanding Self-Directed 401(k) Plans A self-directed…

  • Unlocking Financial Freedom with Self-Directed IRAs: Your Guide to Alternative Investments

    In today’s evolving investment landscape, savvy investors are looking beyond traditional stocks and bonds to diversify their retirement portfolios. Self-directed IRAs have emerged as powerful vehicles that offer unprecedented control over your retirement investments, allowing you to tap into markets and opportunities that conventional retirement accounts simply don’t provide access to. What Exactly is a…

  • Hims Stock: a Deep Dive Into Recent Earnings Data

    Plunging 19% post-earnings, Hims & Hers faces GLP-1 regulatory hurdles despite soaring revenue and subscriber growth – but is this an opportunity?

  • Gold, Silver, and Platinum Market Outlook

    2025 Precious Metals Market Outlook 2025 Precious Metals Market Outlook Gold, Silver, and Palladium: Trends, Forecasts, and Investment Implications Executive Summary Au Gold Supported by central bank purchases and safe-haven demand. ↗$2,450–$2,950/oz Outlook: Bullish Ag Silver Driven by industrial applications and monetary demand. ↗$28–$40/oz Outlook: Bullish Pd Palladium Threatened by oversupply and declining automotive demand.…

  • How SCHD Outperforms the S&P 500: a Deep Dive Into Its Strategy

    Behind SCHD’s market-beating success lies a powerful combination of low costs, quality dividend stocks, and defensive positioning that smart investors can’t ignore.

  • Gold as a Hedge: Strategies for Investors in an Uncertain 2025 and Beyond

    Gold’s time-tested role as a portfolio hedge beckons investors seeking protection, but knowing the right allocation strategy makes all the difference.

  • A Guide to Investing in Junior Mining Stocks

    Considering investing in junior mining stocks? Learn proven strategies to identify promising opportunities while avoiding costly investment pitfalls.

  • Gold Mining Margins: Why 2025 Could Be a Banner Year for Mining Stocks

    Mining profits could hit record highs as gold climbs to $2,750, with top producers enjoying margins exceeding $2,000 per ounce.