Over many years, since the 90's we've had these periods. I always knew it was time to buy when my stomach started to hurt. This is just very annoying. It's different now from then because I have seen us bounce back many times, and we will again. You got my attention by mentioning the "lack of communication", or as I call it, the silent period. There can be a few reasons for this: No news, nothing good to say, but usually because negotiations are occurring, and silence is mandatory.