Facing Forward or Looking Back

The US Postal Service employment hit a peak level of 909,000 workers in April 1999 (20 years ago).  As of January 2019, the number of postal workers had fallen 33% to 607,000 (source: USPS).  Automation and the mass adoption of emails were likely the main culprits to this shrinking workforce.

When investing its important to remember that what always was will not necessarily be what is in the future.  We all know this intuitively, but it never hurts to be reminded of it sometimes.  When cell phones first came out the market was dominated by companies like Motorola, Erickson, and Nokia.  Today it is a two-horse race between Samsung and Apple.

Investing is a journey to where we believe the future will be.  Too many people put the emphasis on what is disappearing in the rear view window instead of concentrating on what’s coming up out their windshield. Don’t let your nostalgia for and comfort with yesterday cloud your perception of the possibilities of tomorrow.

Any opinions are those of Tim Holcombe and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. This material is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.