Basically, we are watching five geocosmic developments this week (and in weeks to come). The first is the Uranus-Pluto square of May 20, as discussed at length last week. The second is the transit of Jupiter through the second half of Gemini, a planet-sign combination that has a historical correlation with all-time highs in stock indices, if at the same time there is a hard Uranus-Pluto aspect, which is the case right now. This geocosmic passage is mostly in effect April 12-June 4, but it could remain in force until Jupiter passes the USA Jupiter on July 19, as described in the Forecast 2013 book.

MMTA has now completed  its first workshop course on “Cycles and Chart Patterns in Financial Markets,” April 6-8, 2013. This was the first course of the new Merriman Market Timing Academy (MMTA), and it is now available in raw footage form (archives) until May 10 to those who wish to order that viewing. In about a month, it will become available as a DVD. By the end of May, it will be available as an "on-line coutse," for upstream viewing via MMTA's LMS system, to those who wish to take that course and/or enroll in future courses to be offered on MMTA over the next two years.

This first course outlined the various cycles (long-, intermediate-, and short-term) in financial markets, and the various phases and patterns that unfold in each. Chart patterns that correlate with cyclical troughs and crests were shown and discussed in detail. Attendees were instructed on trading and investment strategies for each type of cycle, as well as their phases. Special emphasis was given to the U.S. stock market (especially long-term) and Gold and Silver markets (both long-term and short-term). The focus was on market timing methods as leading indicators, and then the use of chart patterns and technical studies to support a reversal or the continuation of the trend. 

In all, there were 19 lessons, or modules, each with quizzes and exercises at the end to reinforce the retention and application of the material just taught.

Certainly, the caliber of material provided at the MMTA is outstanding....  However, beyond that observation, there was a realization that particularly struck me at Ray’s introductory briefing the first morning and that was the uniqueness of the situation.  It is not common to find a qualified person to help others advance; yet in this instance, we not only have an exceptionally knowledgeable and qualified person but also one who is willing, in fact eager, both to share his knowledge and mentor others to carry the torch he will be passing on.  In essence, Ray Merriman is making available in the curriculum for MMTA that which has been a lifetime of research, pioneering, and dedication on his part to understand and master markets and timing.  Ray is not only sharing it but he is passionate about helping his apprentices master this knowledge.  This realization was both humbling as well as a source of gratefulness to be involved with the MMTA, and I am certain the others attending felt the same way.  When I learned that there would be only one “in person” graduating class from the academy – and that it was not to be repeated live - I was doubly grateful to attend. 

ECONOMIC, FINANCIAL, AND POLITICAL OUTLOOK FOR 2013

On March 8, 2013, Raymond Merriman presented his unique outlook for the year 2013, with special attention upon cycles combined with geocosmic signatures related to theworld and national economic and political situation, with a special discussion on the outlook for Gold. This presentation was given in Phoenix, Arizona.

Now, you can hear this presentation in a CD or MP3 format. All purchases will also include a file of the power point slides used in the speech. It was a stimulating event that was enjoyed by everyone present.