SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Politics : Ask Michael Burke
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: BGR who wrote (73592)1/14/2000 3:21:00 PM
From: Freedom Fighter  Read Replies (2) of 132070
 
BGR,

Experience and maturity has made me suspect of anyone who has a vested interest in presenting subjective data a certain way. It isn't my distaste for government or my views on the market that makes me suspect.

It's really hard to find anyone older than their mid 20s who hasn't learned that spinning the facts and data are part of the political game. Tax and spending issues are an even bigger part of the election and reelection process. No one wants to raise taxes or cut spending because they will lose.

You can accomplish both without having your name attached to either course of action by adjusting the CPI number. Many spending programs are tied to it and so are taxes as a result of bracket creep.

So what you have here is a way of solving economic issues without making difficult political decisions that can change election results.

The same thing can be said about many commercials, salespersons, etc.... The seller is only going to tell you the good stuff.

As an investor I'm forced to think the same way about government data as I do when I buy private goods and services. Unfortunately, the CPI is such a subjective and difficult thing that reliable data is probably impossible even with totally honest intentions.

I've seen both sides of the debate on GDP growth and CPI. I just ignore most government stats now and look at what I know is real.

I know what interest rates are and I know what my companies are really earning.

Wayne
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News