Noel-
There is a good article on line in today's NY Times. I know it is very frustrating. We were too spoled by the extra strong market.
I would not judge what the market is going to do by the action in August. After this holiday, the institutions have to decide to buy, hold or fold.
Why don't you try what I suggested. Even though my stocks are down from where I purchased them, I've collected over $8,000 by selling the puts that I bought. ( I purchase lower strike puts as the stock prices have fallen)It is going to matter when these things start to rise.
There isn't much to contribute these days so I have been taking a break from the boards getting things done around the house. We really can't go anywhere without the institutions participation no matter what is said.
At the first rally,I am going to sell covered calls, at a strike price I can live with and collect more premium.
This is a way to keep yourself from frustration.
I am hoping to have a cam camera set up if I hit my financial goals this year. I hope to be able to conference with others over the web.
One other thing Noel, no one really knows how long the lack of participation by the institutions is going to last. I sopke to someone form a major mutual fund company again. They all tell me, they are buying companies like AMAT, ORCL, SUNW, MSFT.and they expect the larger companies to emerge stronger than ever.
(You've heard that from me before.)
Find some other things to do, to get a sense of accomplishment, even if it is cleaning up your desk. This way you will be able to be the last man standing- with yours truly of course.
Stan
Market Data 
Markets 
AI
