He Was Truly A King

Martin Luther King Changed The World

Just like when John and Robert Kennedy were assassinated, I remember where I was when Walter Cronkite delivered the news of Martin Luther King’s murder. It was a bit “shell shocking” to say the least as were the reactions of older family members. A lot has changed during my lifetime. Through peaceful actions, ‘the King’s’ death brought it all full circle to me. He is missed but his teachings and philosophies remain.

My Dad’s father was a ragtime pianist who often competed with musicians with skin color differing from his own. During his lifetime, if there was anyone in the family I would consider to exhibit “racist” tendencies, it was him. He claimed it was for good reason but my Mom’s father never exhibited these types of reactions. I questioned the validity of my Dad’s father especially his reaction to King’s murder. His assassination influenced my grandfather’s reaction to people of color in a positive way as during the rest of his life, he changed for the better.

One never knows what events will change the world. My perception of life as we knew it in the United States was in a state of flux during the 1968 elections primarily due to the Vietnam War. King’s murder took everyone by surprise as he wasn’t a candidate. It brought to light the differences between the “generations” giving us a very important reason to think that we could be better if those “of age” could change their perception.

Fifty-six years later this county is faced with another election, one that race appears to be on the “back burner”. In reality one party, interested in reversing disliked trends, is preaching to everyone that “racial tensions” remain. I do not perceive this as an issue. I never did as I was raised during a time when “equality” meant something. In essence it still does. As they say in Chicago, “vote ealy and often”.

I’m Watching Amgen

Other than a long-term investment in Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (“RGEN”), I’m on the sidelines when it comes to the biotech world. It’s an industry sector I’ve looked at in the past, especially when markets top. In the past I’ve looked to unlock new stocks that have unique products. Other than Celgene in the early 2000s I have not been all that successful with that strategy. With that in mind, I look at the “big boys” and I’m going to stick with Amgen.

Amgen (“AMGN”) is one of the largest biotechnology companies globally, specializing in the development and commercialization of innovative medicines, primarily in the areas of oncology, hematology, nephrology, neuroscience and cardiovascular disease.

Amgen has historically demonstrated strong financial performance, with consistent revenue growth driven by successful products in its portfolio. The success of biotech companies heavily relies on the strength of their product pipeline. It has a very robust pipeline with multiple drugs in various stages of clinical development.

The biotechnology industry is very competitive, with numerous companies competing for market share and innovation. Amgen faces competition from large pharmaceutical companies and smaller biotech firms. Regulatory approvals play a crucial role in the biotech sector. Delays or rejections in obtaining approvals hurts overall performance. Positive regulatory decisions can serve as significant catalysts for stock appreciation.

Amgen historically has returned value to shareholders through dividends and a share buyback programs. Investors interested in income generation often consider Amgen's dividend yield and the company's commitment to returning capital to shareholders.

Again, with a 3.30% yield on $9.00 of annual dividend payments, together with a solid pipeline, it’s back on my radar and I’ve begun to pick up some shares as the price dips. What do you think?

Every Day Is An Event

That’s why I’mm a long term position trader, invesrtor and above all a hedger. Market prices are heading lower, oil is higher, the Yen is strengthenin and the metals, despite my thinking consolidation is necessary, are maintaining their trend.

If you go back in my Substack posts you will find that each one of these “actions” for me is hedged. I’d rather be “lucky than good”. The “harder I work the luckier I get”>

Back to the basics as I’m always learning just like you. The next couple hours gives to me an active role in a couple Webinars. What I learn will find its way into how I teach. It’s beneficial across the board so off I go. Best to all as always.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a special man. There’s not much anyone can add to what is his legacy. Nonetheless, please now take the time to listen to what was one of the most memorable speeches ever uttered in this country. My best to all of you and thank you for your time. May his soul be blessed.