The markets will always be there. Another maxim to go with all of the others; don't fight the fed, invest in what you know, stocks are a long term sure bet? Are global stock markets going to pre-empt themselves into high tech super efficient non entities? Many people were involved in agriculture for thousands of years but nowadays, the only efficient way to farm is on a massive scale. They became so efficient in execution that there was no definable edge for an individual. If stocks are no more than proxies for companies who have wasted billions in maximising 'shareholder value' then what value is their for business owners in having their business traded on a market on a daily basis? Armies of people are competing to beat the market which by definition cannot be achieved. Just like the majority of drivers think they are better than average, maybe traders are creating the environment for the demise of what they are seeking to conquer. It's just a discussion point and not necessarily my view but I throw it open for contribution from the wise and insightful. Cheers Mike
If you have some company that needs millions of dollars to do what it does the best thing is an IPO. That is the reason that there will always be a stock market. To a company its like getting free money. Well that is after paying a Investment banker 500,000-1,000,000 dollars.