Shernel Thielman

Financial markets tend to become jittery whenever headlines grow louder. Political statements, geopolitical tensions, or sharp price movements quickly trigger the feeling that “something’s wrong.” Charts turn red, and suddenly the word “risk” is everywhere. Yet this reflex is often misleading. What is visible is not always what is dangerous. In practice, volatility and risk are frequently lumped together, even though they are fundamentally different concepts. Volatility is movement — the...

A lot of attention on the stock market goes to good companies; businesses with strong brands, recognizable products, growing revenues, and a compelling story. Yet in practice, these very companies often disappoint investors. Not because the company is failing, but simply because the stock was too expensive at the time of purchase. That distinction is often underestimated: a good company is not automatically a good investment. The difference almost always lies in the price and the expectations...

The oil market is once again drawing attention. This time, it's not due to a surprise production cut from OPEC, tensions in the Middle East, or a sudden demand spike from China; but because of Venezuela. After years of political and economic instability, the country with one of the world's largest proven oil reserves is suddenly back in the spotlight. Even retail investors seem to have rediscovered oil as a theme. The excitement is understandable. The idea that Venezuela’s reserves might soon...