Living a Lie (April Fools)
Having a public image can be challenging. Having one based on falsehoods, even more so.
The CARES Act
This weekend the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed into law, with the intention of providing relief to taxpayers affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19). I imagine this is but one of many stimulus/emergency relief efforts to come, and the details will undergo much scrutiny in the coming months.
This is a massive and wide-reaching law. I’ve done my best to summarize the parts that I think will have the greatest interest or impact to early retirees and aspiring early retirees, although it will affect nearly everyone.
Coronavirus Course Correction
Well, it is finally upon us: The inevitable recession that comes after every expansion and the corresponding stock market downturn. And oh boy is it a doozy.
Is this the end of early retirement?
Coronavirus and Life in Taiwan
Coronavirus by GCCJr – Made in Taiwan (I commissioned this drawing for $50.)
Life is about to undergo significant change as the US and Europe begin societal lockdowns to slow the exponential spreading of Coronavirus.
As a contrast, this is what life is like in Taiwan – first person and anecdotally.
Lessons From Japan’s Lost Decade(s)
Following an epic collapse of double bubbles in the stock market and real estate prices, Japan “suffered” 2+ decades of stagnation and deflation.
You would be hard pressed to find somebody who hasn’t at least heard of Japan’s Lost Decade(s.) It’s a popular topic people raise as soon as our early retirement and living off an investment portfolio comes up in polite conversation.
“Oh man, what are you doing to do when the United States (inevitably) experiences it’s Lost Decade(s)?!”
“20 years of 0% investment performance is bound to put a dent in your retirement plans, hehe”
“I want to retire early too but I’m really concerned about a Japan-style financial collapse. What can I do?”
That last question is probably the best – What lessons can we learn from Japan’s challenging times?
