Thami Kabbaj is live!

The speaker, currently in Dubai, discusses global power dynamics, the economic rise of China, and his positive views on Dubai as a city and investment location, despite recent geopolitical tensions. He begins by highlighting China's growing strength, citing its investments in infrastructure like high-speed trains in Kenya, which foster goodwill and a positive image. He contrasts this with the United States' approach, particularly under Trump, which he believes has damaged American soft power and brand image. He notes that even in Asia, China is now preferred over the US, a significant shift. According to McKinsey, a non-Chinese firm, China is projected to become the world's leading economic power by 2050, a theoretical prediction that is now becoming concrete. The speaker emphasizes that China is achieving this without being at war and by engaging with the "global South," contrasting it with the G7 countries whose share of the world economy has diminished. He suggests that while the US might try to maintain its power through force, as seen with oil, China is quietly gaining market share and notoriety. Regarding Taiwan, the speaker mentions that the Taiwanese opposition has stated the US would not save them in a war with China, suggesting a shift towards befriending China. He sees this as a significant development. Transitioning to his personal investments, the speaker discusses AlphaZen, his investment program. He reports that 80% of AlphaZen students are actively implementing its strategies, and they credit AlphaZen with changing their investment approach. He shares AlphaZen's performance: 9.3% year-to-date and 11.3% since November, achieved through a momentum-based, automated approach with zero fundamental analysis. He asserts that the key is to act and follow market trends rather than overthinking or relying on fundamental analysis for short to medium-term investments. The speaker then elaborates on his experiences and views on Dubai. Despite recent negative publicity and a decrease in tourists, he considers it an opportune time to visit due to fewer crowds. He acknowledges the recent regional tensions, including missile and drone incidents, but states that he has not been personally affected. He expresses deep affection for Dubai, calling it an "incredible city" and dismissing criticisms as often stemming from a lack of understanding or jealousy. He is "bullish" on his Dubai investments and not selling, noting that the city's population includes many long-term residents from Lebanon, Syria, India, and the Philippines who are committed to Dubai. He recounts an Englishman's reflection on Dubai's impossible success: transforming a desert city with 90% foreigners (immigrants) into a thriving metropolis. This contrasts with Europe's demographic and social challenges, where immigration is often seen as a problem. The speaker argues that Dubai offers a lesson in country management, demonstrating how immigration can be a solution when there are clear rules, selection, and respect for residents, regardless of their origin. He finds it paradoxical that while some criticize Dubai as a dictatorship, he feels more free there than in France, where he experienced more frequent police interactions and a perceived lack of respect. In Dubai, he has never been stopped by police in 12 years, and the city provides security, top-notch services, and clear rights. He dismisses the concept of democracy as "intellectual masturbation" and "blah, blah," preferring Dubai's clear and effective governance. He acknowledges that Dubai will likely experience a challenging year for tourism and business due to the conflict. However, he remains optimistic about its long-term prospects, citing its strategic location surrounded by billions of people in India, Pakistan, Africa, and Europe, as well as Chinese investment. He advises long-term investment in Dubai but emphasizes diversification, stating he has not put all his money there due to inherent risks. The speaker also touches upon the development of automated trading systems. He notes that while there is demand for advanced algorithms, such programs would be reserved for those with substantial capital ($100,000-$200,000 minimum). For smaller portfolios, AlphaZen is sufficient. He stresses that tools like AI and cloud computing are helpful but not the most crucial factor; the psychological aspect and the willingness to take action are paramount. He believes that despite widespread access to information, many people fail to act, leading to missed opportunities. He reiterates his investment philosophy: focus on momentum and where the money is flowing, rather than personal preferences or fundamental analysis for short to medium-term trading. He provides AlphaZen's performance as proof of this method's effectiveness, which relies solely on momentum and technical analysis. He challenges those who rely on fundamental analysis to demonstrate comparable results with audited accounts. Finally, he offers advice on mindset, emphasizing self-reliance and hard work rather than expecting help from others or the state. He cautions against a "loser's mindset" of constantly asking for help. He shares a personal anecdote about his journey from financial struggle to success, highlighting the importance of having goals and working towards them. He advises against frivolous spending, particularly on depreciating assets like cars, which he considers the "worst investment." He concludes by reiterating the current global crisis stemming from rising oil prices and its potential to cause widespread suffering, food shortages, and social unrest. He hopes for a resolution to the conflict, acknowledging that Europe might suffer more than Dubai in such a scenario due to Dubai's oil resources. He expresses sadness about the impact on Dubai, his adopted city, but remains confident in its eventual recovery. He recounts a personal decision to temporarily leave Dubai during the peak of the conflict for his family's safety but has since returned, underscoring his belief in the city's resilience.