I think the Markets start downward trend.

Link

The link is a list of 2005 Predictions from Ray Settle. I don't really believe in astrology. But these predictions look like they're backed with some sensible forcasting. The 1st week of January predicts the trend for the month. And January predicts the trend for the year.

The Disaster in the Indian Ocean also caused the gold prices to drop. The tsunami happened in the middle of the 'marriage season' for India. This is tradtionally a time for Indians to buy gold. India happens to be the biggest buyer of gold. When the tsunami hit this could have been the reason gold dropped. When disasters hit. They strongly affect markets of some kind where they occur. And affect all markets to some point everywhere. usually negatively.

January begins Bushes new term. His administration has been vague about social security reform. This month he'll begin to be more open about it. I don't think too many people will be happy about it. Sometime during this year the public will hopefully realize the mistake the made voting for Bush. And make him accountable for the economic slide in this country. What do I say. if you voted for the Cheney/Bush ticket. Blame yourself. You should have followed the news more closely. Not 'fair and balanced' but more foriegn than any of the corporate news channels.