"The current state of volatility is an indicator of a potentially sharp stock market decline based upon (i) the currently low level of volatility, (ii) the tendency for upward spikes to follow extreme low volatility, (iii) the relationship of market direction to volatility trends, and (iv) the propensity for downside volatility during secular bear markets. Volatility could decline further and could remain low for some time longer; however, based upon history, it has not stayed low without subsequently spiking and, as it goes lower, the likelihood of a spike increases significantly.

When volatility does start to rise and the stock market likely declines, the bulls will call it a "pullback" or a "correction" in advance of the next major upward move in the market. Because we are currently in a secular bear market (at the least, a bear-in-hibernation), the market can be expected to act as it has during the past secular bear markets. Keep in mind: over the course of secular cycles, the market is driven by recognized principles of economics and finance. The current market conditions are not positioned to provide another secular bull market at this time--it is not a sleeping bull. The current conditions reflect a secular bear or a bear-in-hibernation because the price/earnings ratio ("P/E") is above its historical average. Without a rising P/E, future returns will be below average and investors are likely to experience an extended, choppy, and often volatile period.

There are strategies to employ to capitalize on volatility and to protect downside risk. Recognition is empowering. It is incumbent upon investors to understand the environment and to seek profit-oriented investments rather than hope that the market will again provide the passive rewards that occurred during the secular bull market of the 1980s and 1990s."

This week we will turn our attention to a topic of intrigue, volatility, one of which I think is becoming increasingly important. Ed Easterling, a good friend and fellow hedge fund colleague of mine, has performed an in-depth study on volatility trends and their effects on the capital markets. I have been harping on a similar theme in my e-letter, Thoughts from the Frontline, which I recommend you read in conjunction with this if you have not already.

Ed Easterling is the author of Unexpected Returns: Understanding Secular Stock Market Cycles, President of an investment management and research firm, and a member of the adjunct faculty at SMU's Cox School of Business where he teaches the course on alternative investments and hedge funds for MBA students. Mr. Easterling publishes provocative research on the financial markets at www.CrestmontResearch.com.

"The Calm Before the Storm" uncovers the current and historical levels of volatility in the marketplace and explores their impact on both secular bull and bear market cycles. Moreover, Ed goes on to discuss what those trends mean for investors' expectations and returns in the not too distant future. I trust that you will indeed benefit from Mr. Easterling's fundamental research and his "outside of the box" insights.