- DON’T give out your credit card number(s) online unless the site is a secure and reputable site. Sometimes a tiny icon of a padlock appears to symbolise a higher level of security to transmit data. This icon is not a guarantee of a secure site, but might provide you some assurance.
- Don’t trust a site just because it claims to be secure.
- Make sure you are purchasing merchandise from a reputable source.
- Make sure the transaction is secure when you electronically send your credit card number.
- Do your homework on the individual or company to ensure that they are genuine.
- If you are making online purchase from a previously unknown seller, try to obtain the physical address rather than a post office box and a phone number. Call the seller to see if the number is correct and working. Do not buy from sellers who won’t provide you with this type of information.
- Don’t judge a person/company by their website.
- Be cautious when responding to special offers (especially through unsolicited e-mail).
- Be cautious when dealing with individuals/companies from outside your own country.
- If anything looks suspicious or if you lose your credit card(s) contact the card issuer immediately and deactivate the card.
Average Gain Between Any Two Downturns Has Been 186% IF you have lost a fortune in shares by now, the best way to make it up perhaps could be by buying some more. Since the Great Depression of 1929, the world has undergone 12 major bear market phases. The average bear market has lasted about 22 months, and the market has fallen by an average of 51%. However, the average gain during the bull market between any two downturns has been an eye-popping 186%. The index here in question is the S&P 500. Bull markets — after every recessionary phase — have always been good for investors. All major bull rallies since end-1930 have resulted in markets gaining between 50-500%. Historic numbers show that the magnitude (size or breadth) of a bull market is much heavier than that of a bear market. The million dollar question is: Are we at the threshold of another bull market rally? Markets could go up intermittently, but convincing rallies will take time to happen. The current bear phase is...
