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Hmm ... Emerging Pattern?
Despite how others are interpreting the latest figures, reported by the FDIC - we do not share their same enthusiasm. In fact, we have grave concerns, as the pattern appears to mimic the one experienced during the credit humbling days of the Great Depression. Here are some numbers to consider.
In Q2 2009, nine months after the meltdown, only 4.7% of the 8,195 insured banks were classified as problems. By the second quarter of 2012, the percentage rose to 13.3% of 7,513 insured creditors - at the same time, over 600 banks had vanished for a host of reasons. Today, we are looking at a figure of 10.3%, on a total report of 7,018 insured banks. Now these percentages do look somewhat comparable, in shape, to the 1930-32 period graph for bank failures, prior to the big collapse of 1933. Spooky.
Add to this numerical and graphic analysis, the fact that we have seen an extended period of monetary and quantitative easing, that has not seen benefits flow down to the Main Street banks. Disturbing! These banks are indeed no where near the numbers reported just nine months after the great 2008 meltdown - 4.7% to 10.3%. Meaning the problems have not been fixed to any great extent by policy measures, so far.
But could there be another 1933 in a year or two? The odds are good that a further market and credit meltdown is in the cards. First, because policy has had very little impact on the credit system's organic health; and secondly, a rise in interest rates would deflate financial and property assets, and thereby wipe out much of the equity in an already problematic and highly levered system. Thirdly, let's not forget that the global economy is fragile and exposed to contract widely with minor tremors.
These numbers and analysis are forewarning, so it would be wise for policy-makers to have the toxic-asset bail-out (disaster) plans in place well before events transpire, breaking the bank machine. But, should we ever expect them to Think ahead? Perhaps as 2008 indicates, the idea is just too novel.
Investors should also take note that another credit crunch is, not only terrible for markets, but also the domestic economy, as the banking system that is even numerically weaker than it was back in 2009, cannot quickly act to stabilise both activity and valuation contractions. Meaning that the breach in valuations could also be much greater than the September 2008 meltdown losses, as market liquidity is also more susceptible to rapid tightening with weaker banks.
To close, analyse and draw your own conclusions, but we cannot help having this sinking feeling inside - there is something in the Autumn Air.
PLATINUM WEALTH PARTNERS
First Financial Insights
August 2, 2013
When the bank machines are broken, expect...
One big point in all this is that we simply do not have the diagnostic measures to advise us when the economy, markets and banks are headed for big troubles. This case is somewhat different in that the mathematics of financial valuations is just lurking out there, ready to pounce asset values downwards. It also makes sense from a physical economic view to see values decline, as we exponentially use the planet's resources, while printing buckets of money. No matter what markets, economics and governments cannot win the fight against physics and mathematics - it is hence only a matter of time.
Dr. Peter G Kinesa
August 2, 2013
