When considering a clients risk tolerance and time horizon, the ultimate goal is to uncover potentially profitable investments through disciplines that range from Quantitative, Fundamental and Technical analysis of stocks to the allocation of assets through a diversification of Mutual Funds and ETFs.

Disciplined Investor manages several different strategies that range from the more traditional diversified approach to an active long/short strategy. In addition, our portfolio strategy is designed for those investors looking for a globally diversified portfolio approach with lower investment minimums.

The question that we are looking to answer is simple: Where are we now in the cycle? Did the recent market sell-off provide enough of a shake-out to provide evidence of a capitulation? Was there enough pain inflicted that the cycle bottomed and there is a renewed optimism ahead? Are there still unresolved issues that need to be addressed prior to moving forward?

Looking at the S-curve of market sentiment, we can notice that there are several waves that form over time. From peak to trough and back again. Optimism turns into euphoria at market peaks and then fear eventually breaks toward despondency at market troughs. Depending on your vantage point, one can make an argument about what best describes the current investor sentiment. If you are of the bearish persuasion, it probably looks as though it is somewhere between anxiety and denial. Bulls could argue that sentiment is leaning toward the level of hope or possibly relief.

Let’s all admit that this is getting really tiresome. The continuing rhetoric from all sides is creating a worrisome backdrop for investors. If there is anything that we know, it is that markets hate uncertainty.