What is one thing all good companies (and countries) do in times of crisis and uncertainty? It isn't to run away screeming, and it is also not to continue doing business in the same way as during the good times. It is first and foremost to survive the upheaval, as well as to reflect and regroup, while positioning for a return of the good times. And that's precisely why the Asia Trader and Investor Convention (ATIC) at the Suntec City Convention Centre this weekend is so crucial.

Now, I'm not going to quote that famous (but unfortunately, wrong and expertly debunked) line about finding crisis in opportunity. Fact is, there is opportunity emerging but it's probably unwise to rush out and think opportunity is everywhere.

But at the same time, to stop thinking about the market just because we've had a setback is to acknowledge you've fallen into the fear-and-greed trap which probably got you into a mess in the first place.

The best investment you could probably make right now is in knowledge. Acquire new perspectives and skills. It's precisely now – at a lull in the market – that you should smarten up about your trading and investing strategy. Reflect on what has worked in the past, why it may not work in the future, and what the new way forward is. Position yourself, as I've mentioned, to be able to benefit when the bull market inevitably returns.

The problem is, the next bull market will be different from the one we have just left. While I see a return to the good times, they will be good for slightly or maybe even significantly different reasons for why they were good during 2003-2007. Unless you acquire new skills, you may not be able to recognise the new opportunities when they arise.

So, whatever you do, even if you are not in the market for stocks don't leave the market for knowledge. Don't shut yourself from the market, just because you are currently not invested (or invested and suffering).


Mark Laudi, who will be at ATIC. Come and say hello.


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Labels: Asia Trader Investor Convention, ATIC, bear market, jihui, weiji