Posts by Andrew Stotz
Become a Better Investor Newsletter – 14 January 2023
The most expected recession in history. US stocks have seen inflows, and Europe has seen outflows. It’s not only US stocks that perform over time. Korea has a sober energy policy. • Eggs have become expensive, or have they?
Read MoreDeadly Disease of Employee of the Month: Deming in Education with David P. Langford (Part 11)
Dr. Deming listed 7 Deadly Diseases of Management in Out of the Crisis, and one of the more surprising is #3: Evaluation of performance, merit rating, or annual review. In this episode, David and Andrew discuss the harmful practice of awarding “teacher of the year,” “student of the month,” or other traditional recognition practices. David also offers practical suggestions for alternatives.
Read MoreA. Stotz All Weather Strategies – December 2022
Central bankers appear to be raising rates into a recession to stifle inflation; stagflation would be the worst outcome. Demand for necessities (food and energy), inflation, and supply-chain disruptions can drive commodities higher. We see opportunities to allocate to specific sectors and markets within equity. Bonds and gold to protect capital.
Read MoreBecome a Better Investor Newsletter – 7 January 2023
Europe is highly dependent on gas. Luckily, the winter has been mild so far in Europe. US mortgage rates are at a level not seen for a long time. The Japanese Yen has rebounded. 2022 was an awful year for a stock + bond portfolio.
Read MoreWeaponizing Special Causes: Deming in Education with David P. Langford (Part 10)
In this episode, David and Andrew talk about Common Cause Variation vs Special Cause Variation, and the problem of confusing the two. Using the example of transgender students, David describes how a system’s capability should be expanded rather than using that special cause situation as a weapon to destroy the entire system.
Read MoreMy Worst Investment Ever December 2022
In December 2022, we published 13 new episodes of the My Worst Investment Ever podcast. Listen to all of them here.
Read MoreBecome a Better Investor Newsletter – 31 December 2022
I wish you a prosperous 2023!
Read MoreThe Taguchi Loss Function: Deming in Education with David P. Langford (Part 9)
What is the Taguchi Loss Function and how does it apply to education? In this episode, Andrew and David talk about statistician Genichi Taguchi’s idea that the further you move from a measurable quality target, the more quality is lost, even if the item still “meets specifications.” David shows how you can apply this to education.
Read MoreBecome a Better Investor Newsletter – 24 December 2022
I’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas if you’re celebrating. Either way, I hope you have a good time with your loved ones.
Read MoreThe Problem with Standardized Tests: Deming in Education with David P. Langford (Part 8)
In this episode, David and Andrew discuss the dreaded standardized tests, including how they evolved, how they’re used (and not used) now, and what Deming said about them. David also offers practical tips for educators who want to move away from standardized tests in their classrooms.
Read More