To: HG who wrote (15547 ) 11/24/1998 10:02:00 PM From: Original Mad Dog Read Replies (2) | Respond to of 27307
Not much time tonight. Ultimately, rationality is measured by results. In the end, measurements of what is rational usually involve using some variant of the scientific method. Controlled experiments, when you can design them, work best; in investing, it usually is just "you try it your way, I'll try it mine, and if in the relevant time frame your way works better, next time I'll try it your way." What I have learned about YHOO, and about investing in general, as a result of these discussions is that valuation models need to have more than simple ratios or historical perspective (although those are still important, for history does repeat itself). You also need to have a sense of the moment, about what is different this time. In looking at YHOO as a short term investment (which is all the evidence we have at the moment), it sure looks like the perspective you have been advocating has worked, this time. And yet, even your own posts today seem to imply that you may also have some uncertainty (dare I call it skepticism!) about YHOO's prospects for further stock appreciation in the medium-term (a few months) and maybe even the long term. Today you reported that you sold 1/3 of your position -- I assume that means either that you have doubts about YHOO's current valuation or that you believe the technical factors overwhelmingly point to a short-term correction (to be followed by a long-term increase in value). One more thing: did you say in one of your posts earlier today that a guru once told you to sell only if you believe the stock should be shorted? I would strongly argue that there is a middle ground. What do you think? MAD DOG