While I was expecting that the ‘Remain’-vote would reach a majority in the British EU-referendum, the British surprised the world by, with a million votes difference, opting for a Brexit. The British will leave the European Union in a trajectory that, they expect, will take over two years of negotiations. They will have to go through this tedious process, however, without British Prime Minister David Cameron. He threw in the towel after it became clear that a majority wants out of the
... »Brexit: Markets in Shock, Gold Breaks Through $1,300/oz
June 27 2016
Olav Dirkmaat
Brexit: Consequences for Gold
June 20 2016
In less than a week, on June 23, the British will vote on whether they want to remain in the European Union or leave it. Much has already been written about a possible “Brexit.” In this article, I want to outline some predictions that have been made by other market analysts. What can we really expect from a Brexit?
... »Olav Dirkmaat
The Recent Rise in Delinquency Rates on Bank Loans Is Shocking
June 14 2016
The delinquency rate on loans is key in understanding banking. It answers one question: what percentage of loans is overdue for payment? The delinquency rate is by far the most useful indicator for “credit stress.” It seems, however, as if delinquency no longer counts. Few are paying attention
... »Olav Dirkmaat
Gold Prices in 2016: Where Are We Heading?
June 6 2016
After a miraculous first quarter, gold prices began to correct again. After the first five months, gold has returned 14.3% (or 10.9% in euros) year-to-date. The gold price broke through the $1,300/oz-barrier, but has declined over the past few weeks to just above $1.200 per troy ounce. The gold price in 2016 has exceeded expectations by a landslide, but what is the outlook for gold prices in the second half of 2016?
... »Olav Dirkmaat
