Intel fell 29% just on Friday,
Google 13% the day before,
Saturday, 31 October, 2026.
The AI Tech bubbles appear to be bursting, Our service seeks to perform in both bull and bear market periods. 2026 +45%.
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The NADAQ has already fallen 10%, and it could continue to drag all markets lower with it.
Friday, 30 October, 2026.
Hormuz challenges persist,
Everyone has rushed to get the oil out, as much as they can, before the Midterms in the US are over. From there high risks of immediate large scale war persist.
Friday, 30 October, 2026.
US Q3 GDP 3.4%, not a bad number,
The economy was under pressure from higher energy prices, but AI equipment investment and consumer spending generated a good result. Consumer spending I suspect was all about the high end of town doing very well while most Americans struggle.
Friday, 30 October, 2026.
ECB leaves rates on hold under 3%,
The ECB said it remains concerned about inflation, but also the downward pressure that inflation is placing on the economy. Someone gets it. Take note RBA.
Thursday, 29 October, 2026.
Fed leaves rates on hold as expected, but December looks hot,
Two Federal Reserve Board members voted for a hike at yesterday's FOMC, as rates were kept on hold as most of us were expecting. There seems to be a feeling though, that the December meeting could well see another rate hike. Markets were quite immediately volatile on the announcement, but have since settled. It is getting harder for people to hold stocks that have already done well, may be getting tired, and the Fed is in a serious hiking cycle group-think.
Thursday, 29 October, 2026.
This really could be a major top for AI and Tech shares,
the party may be over and no one was told,
US stocks have most been falling for weeks now, but a handful of stocks had been doing well and holding up the major indices. That support is cracking wide open however, and while some individual stocks may continue to do well, as the big names stumble, things get very precarious indeed for the rest of the market.
Thursday, 29 October, 2026.
Talks are happening, there is hope, just not that much of it,
Not to get too excited, Iran is saying it will adopt its 7 day plan to get the Strait operating again, if the US agrees to all of its terms. The US previously said no to the plan. Meanwhile, Iran has held talks with Qatar, Russia, Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia aimed at finding a peace resolution.
It is just, to my mind, that he US seems so intent on going to war in a very big way, after the Republicans maximise their vote. In a country where 70 to 80% of people do not want this war at all.
Thursday, 29 October, 2026.
US Trade Gap is really turning into a spiral at this point,
Exaggerated individual months are always a bad sign, but several running together suggests the trade situation for the US could be deteriorating in prolonged long term manner. Goods Trad Gap worsened to $134.9 billion in September.
Thursday, 29 October, 2026.
Apple Touch Screen about time,
Mentioning it because I think it is fun and I like it. It also shows Apple is very much in the game in competing with Asia still, and we can expect a steady stream of innovation going forward. Recently, the stock has held up well when other stocks were declining. Ready to buy a break higher, as long as we do not have a broad crash. Though this is a very real risk over going weeks.
Wednesday, 28 October, 2026.
Reverse Bank of Australia, performance, really, inflation really, what they should already be doing,
Economics, Real economics, not that RBA rubbish of no idea from the last century, says they should already be cutting rates. Let me explain.
The Recession We DO NOT HAVE to HAVE.
Wednesday, 28 October, 2026.
Israel election outcome potentials, and ramifications,
Wednesday, 28 October, 2026.
Looks like Netanyahu is on the way out, what's next then,
We cannot be sure until the official vote counting is completed, but Netanyahu definitely looks to be behind at this stage. Awe can have no certainty on what the new government will look like once in power and whether there will eb any changes to the current expansionary policies in the region. We do know there has been a lot of domestic backlash against what has been happening in the West Bank, and to a smaller degree with Lebanon. Perhaps those fronts will stabilise or even calm down. Is there a fresh opportunity for peace with Iran. We can hope so, it is possible, though not probable.
Wednesday, 28 October, 2026.
AI layoffs hitting the Tech industry hard and early,
People in the industry of creating AI, or close to it, are among the first to be losing jobs in large numbers. I tend to think people are getting ahead of themselves in some areas, but the trend is real and will only get bigger. The ramifications of large layoffs building globally in a period of high uncertainty and struggling economies in some locations such as Australia, are potentially severe.
Wednesday, 28 October, 2026.
US Durable Good Orders increased 1.8% in September,
A modest number, but still good to see. Transportation equipment orders, which can be volatile, were the major contributor. The US economy may be a little more stable, but remains vulnerable, with consumer and business sentiment at recession levels. The coming likely paralysis in Washington post the Midterms will not help either.
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026.
At last, a chance for long term peace in the Middle East,
The biggest shift of all to come out of the US Israel Iran War, apart from spawning the Yemen War which is raging, is the loss of influence of the USA in the region long term.
This goes entirely un-reported in the Western media, but most other people around the world are very aware of this. The European nations know this, but still very little in the press.
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What has already happened?
!. Two US Carrier groups were forced to retreat under heavy fire and remain 800 miles from the battle field. This is why aerial re-fueling has become so important in this war.
2. The US Congressional Report recently confirmed the US lost 82 military aircraft in the first stage of the war.
3. EVERY US military base in the Middle East region, including Jordan and Iraq came under heavy sustained Iranian fire. Most major bases, such as the Middle East Naval Headquarters in Bahrain, were completely destroyed. Several Gulf State members have already put on hold the idea of the US ever re-building these bases. Some will be re-instaed in some form. The strong US presence in the region though. that previously existed, is unlikely to ever return.
4. Diplomatically, while for their own immediate protection supporting the US, several Gulf region states are furious with the US for even starting the war in the first place. Especially, after they strongly advised, urged and warned the US not to do so. The US has some strong support in the UAE, but elsewhere things are now more questionable.
5. The US ran out of missiles for air defence and even strike capability. A US Admiral complained we have more launchers than we do missiles. This highlighted to the region that perhaps the US cannot be relied upon in a long war.
6. Though it has suffered enormous bombing damage and over 3,000 civilian lives lost, Iran has rebuilt its missile stocks to greater levels than they were at the start of the war. Iran has been able to assert its military power in the region to a greater level of capability than previously existed.
The combination of US military base losses, withdrawal of personal from these bases, and a loss of diplomatic influence in the region, as well as the now occurred and perviously planned withdrawal from Iraq, all add up to a much weakened posture in the region.
This is all important to understand, because it has necessitated the formation of the new and quite powerful alignment in the region called the Mecca Pact. Consisting of Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, it is a force to be reckoned with. And has self proclaimed itself to represent the future in the region controlling its own affairs. Read between the lines, you have had your day, or decades, USA.
That this group decided to pay Tehran respect, and to travel to Tehran to enact their first official talks with Iran, also goes to show how Iran has now solidified its place in the region as a dominant power. The future of the region is now in the hands of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, with the smaller Gulf States representing a second tier of influence.
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This is actually great news for the region long term, and is likely the best path forward for achieving lasting long term stability. Not just yet, but after this next war which still, sadly, seems likely. However, what these four nations are trying to achieve is a regional solution that will forestall that further US attack on Iran.
Coming to terms with Israel will be more problematic as it seems intent on continuing its expansionary policies at any cost. Which is a shame, because there is a real chance being created here for Israel to actually live in total security and peace. At the moment, the leadership appears set on a course to forever wars.
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Many nations in the region are adamant that Israel must withdraw from Lebanon and Gaza and allow the creation of the Palestinian State. Perhaps, this is a chance for Israel to reconsider this possibility? Should it carry the Mecca Pact stamp of assurance of security from Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.. As well as Iran. I believe the Mecca Pact can get Iran to that point, of assuring Israel of no more hostility.
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Everyone in the region is now working for a long term peace olution. If the US could pull back from seeking control of Iran's resources, such a peace could happen relatively quickly.
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The most likely scenario remains an expansionary Israel and a new phase much bigger war and attack by the USA upon Iran. This is because I have always seen this as a 'Resources War'. Which would be the only reason the US would continue to attack. All their other arguments for war are just camouflage to justify going after the Oil, Gold and Rare Earths of Iran.
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Clifford Bennett
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Monday, 26 October, 2026.
Lula Wins in Brazil,
The 80 year old Lula does it again. The people came out in a big way. Bolsonaro was simply viewed as too far right by more centr=ist voters. It was a very tight race, which may make it difficult for Bolsonaro supporters to accept Lula's victory. There could be some troubles, even un-rest ahead. The country is likely t0 remain polarised.
Monday, 26 October, 2026.
Monday, 26 October, 2026.
All part of the general contagion of the Middle East, the war rages on.
People just are not paying enough attention to the fact that the war has continued despite some stability in the Israel Iran US confrontation. The war in Yemen may well get worse alongside an escalation by the US Israel against Iran again. We are still looking at a total loss of all energy supply from the Middle East within weeks. Which is why Oil has been so strong.
Monday, 26 October, 2026.
Let there be no mistake, this could be the big one none of us want,
It has been my strong forecast since the ceasefire agreement was first signed, that a much bigger war, the big one, will happen after the US midterm elections. This war will be far more ferocious and will entail the complete destruction on all sides of all energy infrastructure. And still the US may well not win or succeed with any of its main objectives. These are in any case all mere smokescreen. For this war is really about getting control of Iran's enormous resource wealth, which is far more than oil. Gold and rare earths are high on the agenda. This is a Resources War Era conflict. Venezuela was just the beginning. The US already runs Australia, and the recent agreemaent for large US bases in Greenland will only lead to ever greater leverage over the country until full control of their resources is confirmed.
The next phase of the Iran war will likely again be a quagmire for US forces, with heavy casualties in both sides, including civilians in Iran, continuing.
Monday, 26 October, 2026.
US Stocks have been steadily subsiding lately.
The AI bubble is at its infant stage of bursting, though some bounce may be due short term. The long term outlook for AI may now well be down. The Dow tried to rally on the rotation argument, money moving back to more traditional stocks, but I think the entire market could be in trouble medium to long term. Being a Monday, we often get a bounce in NY, but after that suggest caution.
US500 chart.
Monday, 26 October, 2026.
Netanyahu may lose this election. It is very tight,
Both sides are doing everything they can to maximise their vote. There seem to be no limits. Some 60,000 have returned home form overseas for this historic vote. What will happen should Eisenkot win is a little uncertain. It is possible the taking of territory could even intensify. Though anything is possible once a new leader takes office.
Monday, 26 October, 2026.
France, Italy, Albania, Portugal, Spain, all seeing the same demonstrations and in some cases heavy looting,
Elite political snobbery and policies have simply ignored the people for too long. There is no quick solution here, and do not expect these movements to peter out, They are more likely to continue to build. As the protesters are still not being heard. Life has become very hard for ordinary families across Europe due to policy decisions that did not need to occur, and seem to be orchestrated from somewhere else?
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
AI Bubble burst a little while ago, but few noticed,
For the past several months I have been pointing out that no one knows whether AI valuations are way too rich or still attractive. No one knows. Then you add in the growing discontent with data centres in the public mind and with investors backing off on funding, alongside high bond yields, cracks in the regular economy, and a Fed to still hike again due to energy inflation, and it is just not a good mix. This could be a Dotcom bubble moment?
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
Australian Private Sector Activity tipping into free-fall,
The S&P Global PMI data released today has Australian services sector falling sharply, and the manufacturing sector wallowing badly in actual contraction/decline territory. And the only policy response the current government can come up with is to find new ways to tax everyone. Trying to tax a nation to prosperity is the fastest way to the bottom of the barrel, and we are already well on our way there. Australia's fundamentals remain diabolical, with no hope of turnaround for years to come.
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
Iran again tightens its grip on the Strait,
Western media left it out, but a few weeks ago Iran warned that it would again begin sinking ships if hey did not comply with Iraniand rights of passage. Good oil flow did happen, but it is already falling back as an even a Supertanker was set on fire. The recent flow will slow and stop completely as we approach the Big War. Ships have been taking risks to get as much oil out before hand, but it is all about to stop.
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
Massive first strike re-start of the war is the likely strategy,
The US and Israel went all in on Regime change last time and it did not work? It suggests a truly enormous first strike re-start of war package is on its way and Isreal fighter jets have been exercising along the Iranian border in recent days. A huge attack is coming, and the response from Iran could be also something bigger than we have before seen.
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
How quickly things change, and highlights a big Iran war is coming,
The US is working extremely hard to get along with Russia all of a sudden, and secure oil supplies. This is solely because a large, potentially long lasting war is being planned with Iran.
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
Russia military capabilities accelerate,
The latest Russian SU fighters are thought to perhaps be the most capable in the world. the hyper-sonic missile capabilities are world leading, and now rocket propelled drones which Ukraine has found no answer to on the battlefield. Which is significant as both Russia and Ukraine probably lead the world in drone warfare, with Iran not far behind.
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
US influence, at least diplomatically appears to be on the wane,
Following up on the Nobel Peace Prize award to a former ICC judge, now the EU's top peace prize goes directly to the ICC. World respect and appreciation for the International Criminal Court, if anything, has become even stronger since the US has attacked it and applied sanctions to the revered institution..
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
Oil price set to go much higher, and for longer,
Oil prices look to be consolidating recent gains rather nicely. Building energy of itself to again strike higher. It seems inevitable. I believe current diplomatic efforts will go nowhere because Washington wants war.
Friday, 23 October, 2026.
UK Consumer Confidence doldrums,
Never the most optimistic of peoples, nonetheless this is not good data for the UK economic outlook. Back near covid lockdown levels, and that was particularly intense in the UK.
Thursday, 22 October, 2026.
Iran ready to invade with troops any country that attacks it, Israel fighter jets active on Iran border,
Iran has announced it has shifted its military doctrine to "offensive asymmetrical". It is warning of troops on ground against any country that now attacks it.
Iran has unknown capacity, but its ability to do so is very likely far in excess of what Western media would have you believe. Iran has already exhibited superior missile technology to that of Israel and the USA. With no defence proving effective against Iran's hyper-sonic missiles on the few occasions they chose to use them.
Iran has said it now has a greater missile capacity in payload and numbers than at the start of the war. The US has not been the only one getting ready for the next stage of the war. Which will be far more devastating for the entire Middle East, due to both sides, than we have so far seen.
Thursday, 22 October, 2026.
Fast Growing global diesel crisis,
it is a very big and potentially savage deal,
Ukraine has put out of commission the world's second largest diesel refinery, in Russia. It is almost as if Zelensky wants to hurt Trump with continued large swarm drone attacks targeting sensitive, hard to repair parts of major Russian refineries.
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Understandable in that they are at war. My point, is the global transport and agricultural industries are going to slow, and prices are going to skyrocket. This is not a forecast or a theory. It is already happening.
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Energy prices are going much higher, and we are not in the next major war escalation yet. The global economy will slow, and with a shortage of fertiliser, some larger parts of the global community are going to find adequate food a challenge.
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Needless to say, along with a US fiscal crisis propping up some stocks, bond yields to go higher, Federal Reserve to hike rates further, all on top of extremely rich valuations, one has to ask is a great big stock market crash just around the corner?
Certainly, no harm in being defensive. In fact, if you have done well, why are you continuing to take risk at all?.
Wednesday, 21 October, 2026.
Probability of multi-month/ year Iran War, now 90%,
Even as the ink was drying on the MoU and ceasefire, I forecast, against the media narrative of the time, that a much larger phase to this war was still to come. The probability of which is now, in my book, at a whopping 90%.
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Do not think massive strikes finally ending the war.
Think that, but immediately followed by a very surprising beyond expectations Iranian response. From there the US will retreat or dig its heels in and casualties on both sides will be a tragedy and keep growing for many months. Perhaps years.
Yet again, the US may not win.
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Forget any oil flow from the Middle East.
It will just not happen. Not a trickle, not a workaround. Infrastructure destroyed to a point of no oil for the world from the Middle East.
Think on that. ​
We are hedging potential equity market losses, by being long Oil.
Wednesday, 21 October, 2026.
Japan Trade is dropping both exports and imports?
This is not good sign for Asia or the world. Is this a function of those higher energy prices really starting to bite everywhere. Exports, shown, second month of decline. While imports fell too, though not as significantly. It is not a disaster, but it is a hint that something is up.
Wednesday, 21 October, 2026.
TRADING ROOM
AUD continues to build against USD and Euro,
Doing very well. No change. The domestic fundamentals are diabolical, but with all the disarray in Europe and the Middle East, there is an argument for the resource export rich Australian dollar still.
21 Oct .7018
LONG at .6946, stop loss now .6961.
SELL at .6927, stop loss .6981.
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026.
US Homebuilder Confidence at Covid lockdown levels,
The US economy has far bigger cracks in it than Wall Street spin masters will allow you to believe.
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026.
China economy juggernaut lifting global growth,
The largest economy in the world, according to the IMF, continues incredible performance with GDP at 4.5% in Q3 yoy.
Again, something Wall Street does not want you to know. You probably thought the China economy was in trouble. That is because Wall Street economists do everything they can to spin it that way, and most of your financial media starts there each day?
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026.
France and other equity markets are starting to price in the reality for the majority,
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026.
Protests and curfews in major cities, what kind of Europe is this,
As discussed yesterday, see France article, it is entirely due to this modern era ruling elite superiority complex. Policy for their own self righteous egos and amusement, instead of for the people.
Tuesday, 20 October, 2026.
The Next Iran War is a definite, it will be horrific for the Middle East and global energy supply,
Of course here are high-level diplomatic efforts, everyone behind closed doors knows what's coming, and they are doing everything they can to stop it. The problem is the decision has already been made. The US will attack Iran after the Midterms, and this could be a major war that rages for many more months or years. Before the war started, I forecast that it would last many months. Virtually no one agreed wth my forecast then. I hope that it is my turn to be wrong, but I see a constant momentum, only in the direction of war.
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The oil price is only factoring in perhaps 35% of this eventuality, and is likely to go significantly higher. Further damaging the US and global economy, but this is not Washington's primary concern.
Monday, 19 October, 2026.
THE BIG IRAN WAR
IS NOW CERTAIN,
Monday, 19 October, 2026.
Spoken like a detached despotic leader,
The politics of hardship generated by extreme energy prices and ever demanding control strategies and taxation, are finally reaching breaking point.
It is not just Paris, most major cities in France are experiencing the exact same thing. And so too is Albania right now.
A horrific mix of real financial hardship, political frustration that nothing ever changes, spilling over into outright widespread looting, particularly of luxury stores like Louis Vuitton and similar. The carnage is widespread and intense and while some will be hoping the anger has now been vented? I think not. This could just be the start of a rolling seres of protests and major people versus the state confrontations that will work themselves ever closer to the Palace itself.
Macron has been totally ignoring the general publics dislike of helping Ukraine, extreme immigration that has made it harder to get jobs, especially for the immigrants, and the subsequent downward pressures on wages. From an economic perspective this is not surprising, and other countries could be headed in this direction. France really has been a stand out example of the elite being the elite and the rest viewed as simple serfs who can be ignored. This has seen revolutions before.
In Germany, the what are now called far right, but use to be called centrists, are on the rise as elsewhere. While major German companies close plants and move overseas, due to the energy prices.
The background is the growing wealth gaps in the West, affording the rich and elite a false sense of intelligence, and the ability to exploit the less fortunate for their own policy likes and self-enrichment agendas. This is what it is, and the people are finally saying 'no more'. Emphatically.
Ukraine, with US guidance, blew up the Nord Stream pipeline. This has been found to be true by several national enquiries but given almost no press? The US started selling Europe natural gas at much higher prices, and it has only got worse with the Iran war.
Another escalation of which is coming and all around the world the less fortunate are suffering as a result. The global elites really do not care and thus the system will not be sustainable. They are not as immune as they think.
In Australia we have seen a similar attitude from both the Liberals and ALP governments. Australia is now the highest taxed nation in the western world, and we are resource rich and it just shouldn't be so. Canberra now has generational bureaucrats who have little awareness of normal life and business. Canberra is the richest state in Australia and it only produces regulation and taxation hardship. Again displaying a disregard for the will of the people and pursuing policy agendas that only serve the global elite's wishes. This ALP is not a party for the working class, it is all about superiority, elitism and authoritarianism. Canberra's saving grace is that it is getting enriched at the expense of the working people of Australia, but is geographically isolated making people power protests of a higher order of difficulty. But make no mistake. The people of Australia are also increasingly frustrated and angry.
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This is why One Nation, with the support of the National Party, is the most likely next Federal government. The left is no longer the left. Wake up Australia.
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Clifford Bennett
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Monday, 19 October, 2026.
Australia, there is a chance of a comeback,
Since 2009,
I have advised Treasurers and PMs and given speeches at business luncheons strongly advocating a giving back of power to the people to inspire tremendous economic growth, to allow people to be truly excited to build and grow ideas and businesses with a bold clear the decks of complexity new tax system,
20% GST, 20% income tax, 20% company tax,
and let the greatest ideas bloom, these are progressive changes,
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We also need a Norway style fund where the resource tax goes into a fund for the people of Australia, directly subsidising household energy bills by 30% to 50%, and politicians cannot touch that money.
Then we all get on with it, and have the greatest country on earth again.
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Clifford
Monday, 19 October, 2026.
Five tankers in a few days mines and missiles, as Trump waives Russian energy sanctions,
Crude Oil markets this morning are a little softer in response to Trump lifting oil sanctions on Iran. How quickly things change.
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Now really is the time to panic however, because if everything was under control and Washington was not planning a hyper-war against Iran post Midterms, there would be no need to make friends with Russia for oil supplies?
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This is what should be concerning everyone on the planet today. We will see oil prices moving even higher for the foreseeable future, even after last week's tremendous gains. We have been long oil for the whole move up, yet again. Maybe take a look at my Trading Room service?
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Gold will also do well out of the strong base it has been building lately.
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US stock market is really tipping over into total free-fall now, and Australia may be next. Though the Australian market has been steadily falling as forecast for months now. The US AI boom is over. The bubble is already bursting, and everywhere people are putting their heads in the sand. The desert sands of the Middle East. Not wanting to look up...​
Trump/USA has stolen $20 billion dollars from Venezuela already. It is in a bank in Qatar so US creditors owed 11 billion cannot touch it. The State Department has so far moved 2.7 billion to itself in Washington. This is all documented.
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As for the Oil. Total control, including pricing. So far nothing goes to the Venezuelan people.
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This was one of the world's biggest ever colonial robberies. By the way the sources for this are all American. What it was not however, is a total solution to US oil demand. Because oil from different regions has different qualities.
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Trump was thinking he would get the full menu by attacking Iran, but it has not worked out that way. So now, he has to go to all scale war mode, to in his mind get total control of Iran's oil, gold and rare earths until the end of time. These are Resource Wars. Pure and simple. With the added support of Israel too.
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Already, running low on Diesel, Trump had to a deal with Putin. Now, with the prospect of a total stop of supply from the Middle East, due to a larger war occurring, this is what he is planning, he is getting ready be securing oil supplies from Russia. Which is ironic as Biden/Washington supported the blowing up of the Nord Stream pipeline by Ukraine. But, now the US wants energy, supply from Russia is ok.
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While Oil markets thought it was good that Trump waived sanctions on Russia, what it really was; a big red waving flag saying a hyper-war is coming within weeks.
Think about that. And if Zelensky keeps attacking Russian oil infrastructure as it is doing, then the world, the global economy is going to be in a real spot of bother.
Yes, I am still bullish oil. .
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Stocks are in diabolical trouble, big picture. Gold is a great acquisition. US dollar can do anything short term but will be collapsing with the bond market over the coming 18 months.
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The USA is never going to repay its debt. Default or major war cancellations of foreign owned bonds are its only way out.
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Have a great day,
Clifford
USCrudeNov
16 Oct 97.45
LONG at 89.23, stop loss now 94.80.
LONG at 95.39, stop loss now 96.00.
There is a much larger war with potentially total loss of energy supply from the Middle East for several months. As Zelensky gives Trump the finger and says Ukraine will be aggressively targeting Russian oil facilities. How far do you think oil can go?
Friday, 16 October, 2026.
AI game over? Broad market false rally. Oil flies, keep that Gold,
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good afternoon,
​
Friday's, always like to keep it short so you can start your weekend.
​
Also, just introduced a Special Intro Offer on website. Please tell your friends.
3 months to get started at just $49. LINK to ACTION
Why not try it. Especially, if we are about to have a major all equity market melt-down. This is when we truly shine. Save your wealth for just $49.
​
AI continues at least a mini-meltdown here, and to be honest it does have the stripes of a Dotcom possibility. It took the Tech sector 16 years to recover to the same level. Perhaps not as severe this time, but certainly potentially of major damage. Let's face it, the whole world is caught mega-long AI.
The US500 and Dow were reasonable on the day. With support coming from a rally in Treasury Bonds. I do not think that rally, lower yield, will last though. So, we are very likely to see the broad stock market collapse without the fanfare of the previous AI strength to cling to. AI has been the life-raft of this market for sometime, and that is coming to an end. Saved on the day by the softer bond yields, but likely not for long.
The Australian market is truly bizarre. Showing significant strength, albeit within the range of recent weeks. When the war in the Middle East continues to worsen, and we have not even got to the big escalation that is coming yet. Ships are being actually sunk by missiles and mines in the Strait this week. Such that recent traffic levels may well recede sharply. All this, again without the full escalation that is coming.
Washington, doing the rounds 'as the narrative' is the idea that President Trump wants to end the war and may do a 'fireworks' display, a little shock and awe, to make it look to the American public that he just won the war? And then he will withdraw with nothing really achieved. Under the smokescreen of the 'fireworks' style success.
This whole narrative is of itself a smokescreen. A way of disguising the real plans. Which are more likely to consist of some major bombing, only then to claim it did not work, and poor President Trump is now forced to launch a full-scale war. This is how the invasion and grab for resources and wealth will be camouflaged to the American people. The much bigger war is coming.
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Have a great day,
Clifford
Thursday, 15 October, 2026.
A lot of market movement, AI cracking loud,
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good afternoon,
​
Markets are moving around quickly and with energy now. Hence, some quick points here below, as I focus on trading for clients and members today. If you are not a client or member please feel free to email me directly and ask for a special discount offer.
email clifordbennett@me.com
​
Please everyone note, this could be the start of an equity market melt-down. Do not believe people who tell you it always goes up in the long term. That is a nonsense. The indices do, but sometimes only getting back to the same level after 7, 16, 25 years, and the stocks in those indices change. Many individual stocks never recover from such meltdown periods. Isolate and ignore the Wall street spinners of rubbish.
​
Save your wealth, if things get worse and you really have to act, I will let you know, but you should already have reduced your portfolio? We are not long any stocks now. We are short stocks. That is, we make money if the market continues to fall. Become a member and let me show you how with specific indicators and signals.
email clifordbennett@me.com
​
Federal Reserve will hike again as inflation spikes to 3.7%.
Loud cracks are occurring in AI markets. Could this be the big one, I keep saying.
The US dollar may have just had its last push higher before it collapses.
US bonds were sold, then a sharp turnaround. Looking to sell this bounce.
Oil continues to build, but may consolidate for a moment.
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Gold, buying this dip immediately.
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Iran War, still expect escalation post Midterms. A bigger more ferocious war. As is currently happening in Yemen. All will sadly expand.
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Australia in a nutshell.
Australia is falling apart in front of our eyes. Businesses closing, experiencing downturns as the tax and regulatory burdens continue to climb. We all work for the fat bureaucrats in Canberra now. Which by the way has become the richest state in Australia? Think about that for a moment if you are wondering if we are over-taxed?
The politicians and bureaucrats are stealing from us while the RBA twists the knife.
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Have a great day,
Clifford
Wednesday, 14 October, 2026.
Yemen War intensifies, US dollar at high risk,
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good afternoon,
​
The Yemen/Houthis/Saudi War is intensifying. We may not be seeing it in our media, but Saudi is running non-stop bombing missions against the Houthis, and Yemen is calling for help for the massive internal refugee crisis. This is fierce fighting on the ground and with missiles and it is non-stop. Even though we only get the headline worthy moments. This can blow up into a much wider expanded war drawing other countries in. As it has already done with support from Turkey and Pakistan to the Saudis, but what if Houthis get material and involved help from Iran, or Iran and Lebanon move back closer together as Israel disregards ceasefire agreements. There is so much that can go wrong here that will impact the global economy.
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The other noteworthy mention, is that this could be the big one for the US dollar.
As in quantum historic down-trend resumption. Though, I am being a bit aggressive to turn on this today. There could still be a few days sideways consolidation and then down again. Yet, there is just so much going wrong in the US at the moment, plus a lot of dollar buying has been driven by the higher yields. When that should actually have been a waring ing sign that the US economy is increasingly unstable and at peril of simultaneous bond and currency markets collapse. This could drag stocks down too. This is an extremely precarious and immediate problem. The risks are as high as they get. Well worth looking for a dollar turn from recent strength.
Have a great day,
Clifford
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The RBA problem has a very fast and real solution,
Tuesday, 13 October, 2026.
Market figured out not so much Diesel after all.
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good morning,
​
That some in the market chose to sell Oil early yesterday, because of the Trump Putin deal on Diesel, just goes to show how most people are only reacting to headlines and going no deeper on the story. It amounts to a only few days of US demand, let alone global demand. Yes, it helps, but selling on this was odd. That said, perhaps it opens the door for further deals to come.
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Europe has been reusing Russian energy. Replacing it at huge costs with other sources which has had a devastating impact on the EU economy. And cost of living for the entire population.
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From here, the Midterms are now getting close enough for people to become a little more wary of the prospect for higher oil prices again on the back of a major emphatic escalation of the war.
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Stocks hesitated on a Monday, which would normally see stronger demand. Though there have been strong rallies of late, I remain sceptical. Particularly, as mentioned yesterday, the AI and Tech sectors are not seeing broad sweeps higher, with several looking decidedly bearish. Quite scattered in performance.
Have a great day,
Clifford
Monday, 12 October, 2026.
Saudi taking heavy blows, US stocks look better, liking Gold Oil,
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good morning,
​
More than 16 killed, death toll rising, and over 300 injured at Riyadh airport in just the past few days.
Trump has said the US may attack the Houthis. Odd it has taken this long, and in any case, Yemen forces and Saudi are already pushing back hard. Now with the support of Turkey and Pakistan.
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The new alliance between Saudi, Turkey and Pakistan has been activated, and is another major step in the reframing of power in the region. With less US presence. The US has already admitted many of their bases may not be re-built. Behind closed doors, several Gulf States are not going to allow this anyway.
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Trump has done a diesel deal with Russia that sounds big, but is only 3-5 days of US demand. It is a very significant strategic change however, and goes to show what high expectations Trump had about Iran being another Venezuela. Wrong. Very wrong.
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Trump has also called for Zelensky to be replaced. Which is actually entirely reasonable. The guy and his top Generals and Bureaucrats have been way out of line with mis-appropriating funds the entire war. Zelensky is already a billionaire, just based on his property purchases from villas in Italy, Monaco, and Bahamas, and mansions elsewhere. Few noticed when his wife started shopping at Bvlgari in Paris. He was only worth a few hundred thousand before the war? And yes, he is targeting Russian oil which is a very big problem for the entire world.
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The war rages intensely between both Russia and Ukraine, with the ferocity of attacks on both sides increasing. The frustration in Moscow is widespread with people wanting Putin to take a tougher approach with Ukraine. Which he now appears to be doing.
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Stocks are actually looking far more capable of a sustainable rally than they have for some time. So says the price action. Again, however, I have to caution that Wall Street does not understand the risks of a much larger war after the Midterms. Which leaves us in a bit of a quandary. To join the before Midterms buying, or wait for a downward response to a new bigger war. I will respect any further breaks higher in the US, but I note the tech sector is under-performing in the moment. Which could be an Achilles heel and warning.
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Have a great day,
Clifford
Reality Check RBA, 'Reverse' Bank of Australia, from an international perspective,
Friday, 9 October, 2026.
Tankers are striking mines and exploding, war again after mid-terms,
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good morning,
​
Keeping it short today and wishing you well for the weekend.
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The truth about US losses in the war is gradually surfacing, with 81 military aircraft lost or damaged so far in this war. As per the latest Congressional Report. We know at least 1,000 US troops, marines, and sailors have been wounded. Even more sadly, 19 dead. All this with little achieved.
In fact there is a strong argument Iran is in a better position now than before the war. US bases across the region destroyed. Aircraft carrier groups pushed back to a range of 800 miles for safety. The Strait if Hormuz a cinder box.
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These losses are a factor in why President Trump will go to war again after the Midterms. There is no other logic here than to get the maximum vote saying you are talking to Iran, then go to war with them again. The big goal is the wealth of the resources in Iran, and to regain now significantly lost influence in the region. I will say it again. I am not sure the US will win the next bigger war either.
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Oil prices remain under-pinned by the continued threat to all shipping through the Gulf that is not secretly paying a toll to Iran. The explosions in the Strait are thought to be tankers that hit mines. The cost of shipping is 10 times what it was, and supply cannot be assured post the Midterms when the US re-starts the war. Therefore, greater risk is being taken now to get tankers through the Strait beforehand.
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While languishing a bit, I do think Gold could be a good long term buy as long as it does not fall below 3970. Keep that level in mind strategically.
Stocks are looking very dicey indeed, Though Apple is firming nicely.
Australia just quite simply remains a worry.
Clifford
THE INDIVIDUAL, HAS THE ADVANTAGE.
Update complete
Tuesday, 6 October, 2026.
Australia, the steadily unfolding socio-economic disaster,
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good morning,
​
Some big comments today, changes, moderations in some views.
Firstly though. the latest Australia Consumer Index data from the Westpac-Melbourne Institute is totally damming of the Australia economy, its management and outlook.
Consumer Confidence is at near covid lockdown levels, and not for the first time since those fateful days. Pre-covid, back when the world was relatively normal, consumer confidence ran at about 105. Today's data has come in at 80. In fact, consumer confidence has only been at the previous normal or higher briefly during the 2021 post covid party boom.
Australians have been struggling. Hard working families and businesses, particularly small to medium sized ventures ever since covid really. GDP per capita has been going backward and the majority of the society has been under stress of a kind that is unwarranted. Extreme taxation to support one of the world's largest public service largesse experiments while crunching individuals and businesses with arduous compliance and regulatory work loads.
Where is the quality time for people to have healthy lives, being happy and playing with their children. Much of that time has now gone to pure government satisfaction activities.
Australia has been a test bed for social media companies for many years, and now it seems a weird kind of global experiment in just how much you can attack the society itself, with extreme taxation, regulation and immigration and other measures, to see how far a people can be pushed before there is a serious confrontation.
That day is now approaching fast. If not before, it will occur at this next federal election when One Nation sweeps to victory. Not because of their attributes, but solely because of the nature of both the major parties. Voters are crying out to get rid of them all. For both major parties have been to blame for where Australia has fallen. And there is also the added incentive to vote One Nation simply because of the complete lack of talent across both the ALP and Liberals.
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GLOBAL MARKETS VIEW
Oil flow out of the Middle East has suddenly surged to near pre-war levels. Due to pipelines being repaired and working to their maximum, and also recent tanker traffic levels bouncing firmly. Some of this is due to re-loading at sea operations. Time consuming and expensive, but working. And to rumours that many vessels have started paying a 10% levy, and higher, on all shipments to Iran. Iran's oil may not be getting out as much, though much is being trucked out, but it is earning an income on the rest of the Gulf's oil. This is at least what some insiders are saying.
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Oil prices are staying high, because of these added expenses and also because there is a rush now to get as much oil out as possible before the war resumes in a big way.
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For our trading of oil, I have been too stubborn in view, and have to recognise a resumption of the war after the midterms may simply seem to far away, too abstract, for most traders to fully respect and price, just yet. Certainly, the closer the midterms get, the quieter the comments on war resumption out of Washington will become. To go home on any day without a stop buy above the market would be foolish, but we are willing to go short should support here give way.
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Gold, a similar story to the above, but perhaps becoming the superior multi-year opportunity.
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Stocks, expect further separation of mainstream stocks from the more high flying AI and Tech sectors. Resources could be included, but will be volatile. The immediate upswing in AI and Tech could become more stable than has been the case through much of this year. We will remain ready to turn and sell on any big picture developments.
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Australian stocks have fallen a long way, but also face a quite challenging fundamental outlook. Rates are already too high, plus the added weight of never-ending inflation. For more on this please see yesterday's ausbiz TV interview. A bounce is due, but feel less enthusiastic than even in the US.
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Have a great day,
Clifford
International Guest Speaker
Wall Street Journal, FT, China News Daily.
