Funny how when what you love becomes what you have to deal with the love subsides somewhat. If I can reduce a problem I have to numbers, then I can solve that problem. So here is my dilemma: after six years I now have numbers that are historical, immutable and how to interpret them is rather easy. When a person joins the Mathmatecum the fee is always reduced by $25 which is the lifetime membership fee. The balance goes into the Members Money fund for present and future investment which is designed by the Mathmatecum. The difficulty is how do you determine the rate of return for members? Our oldest member for instance became a member at age 91. Her fee to become a member was $35 (25/10), so based on her last payment received – her ROI was either 9% or 32.5%! I of course believe the second rate is the fairest because the Mathmatecum should not be held to a standard other companies are not who are doing like or similar functions.
It has become apparent that though the returns are terrific the inability of the average person to have enough money in the Mathmatecum to make them feel like joining the Mathmatecum becomes more glaring with each passing year. Time to rethink.
Every year of the Mathmatecum so far by this time of year I was certain where I would place Members Money for the near future. Unfortunately, that is not the case this year. Numbers are now the key to the present turmoil. Tariffs are percentages placed on goods coming into a country and their range can be quite large. Our present Administration is less than clear about its plans for tariffs and therefore the money markets are roiling, and the stock market is boiling. Tough to act until forced – I can’t wait for May 1 to arrive.
Now is the time to be financially cautious and calculating.
JAI BABA
TTFN
JU
