All the things you mention about the weekend were already accounted for in the level at close on Friday. Nothing new came out over the weekend so, after a bad few weeks, it has twitched up a bit as some people (institutions) buy on the dips. The markets anticipate rather than react most of the time.

Having said that, I wouldn't be rushing to buy in just yet. I think this is the year that the world wakes up to the fact that there isn't any central banks to help this time round, so as the global economy slows (which it is) there will have to be a readjustment from the markets to what everything is actually worth right now.

The commodities and emerging markets still have their capitulation phase to go through yet and there will be at least one BIG name in the energy or mining sectors that will go under, causing a "blimey, thought they were too big to fail..who's next" type of reaction in markets in general.

We've had an 8 year bull market. We're due a bear (down 20%) and I think it's knocking on the door now.

That's my take, anyway.

Living down here does have some advantages. At least you can see them cry.

I got this "market commentary" this morning.....

Be interested in your thoughts about his views mezzer?

In short, Hoof, Mr Mental makes pretty sound comments and I agree we could get a short term bounce. However, I think we've got a major event to come at some point this year - not exactly like 2008 as I don't think it will be a systemic threat - which will see a lurch downwards to mark the capitulation stage.

I like to keep things as simple as possible. What's the chances of markets rising 10% in the next three months? Pretty low. What's the chance of a 10% fall in the same period? Quite possible. So best stay defensive.

One of the main problems is that everyone needs to adjust to the new normal (deflationary, low growth). It won't look like what most people still see as normal - the freak period between 1980s and 2008 fuelled by unlimited credit - and the adjustment will cause bouts of volatility. Trackers won't work so well in this environment and there'll be a lot of people left scratching their heads as to why their cheap passive investment option isn't giving them any long term gains.

Living down here does have some advantages. At least you can see them cry.

waiting until about summer time. we'll see. going to be buying at great prices. great opp to make some real money this year as long as you can wait a bit for the return.

+1

"Everything is air-droppable at least once."

"When the going gets tough, the tough call for close air support."

Thanks mezzer.

I have to hold onto my Lloyds shares for another 2 years. My mrs works for them and get £200 worth every month at half price and no NI or tax if you keep them for a set time. I've bought some at 11p and at most 45p... so current price 66p not an issue. I believe these will increase to well over £1 when the year end results are issued and pay a dividend in April and October.

I also hold National Grid as they pay good dividends twice a year and are well up on the price I paid.

Are you advocating holding just Cash for now?

Gold funds are a bit iffy and bonds.

Would be interested in what you think mate.