Is it ALL Disruptive?
Is it ALL Disruptive?
We have never been through times like these, as the novel corona virus (COVID-19) ravages populations and economies across the globe. Globally, the disease continues to spread, although it looks like China has gotten past their peak. What many would view as draconian measures seem to be what it took for China to get past being the epicenter of the pandemic. The rest of the world has not reached the peak, so there is no end in sight for us in the Western world. There are many strategies, rules, policies, and protocols enacted to “flatten the peak” and each day, each hour, these rules get more stringent. We must escalate the fight to stop the spread of Covid-19 and return our lives to something we can call normal and cope with more easily.
The mission of TREND DISRUPTORS is to explore and monitor scientific and technical developments, looking for the brightest ideas; those that have the potential to “disrupt” a market sector. We publish relevant investment recommendations for our subscribers and publish blog articles discussing many new technology developments. To date we have focused on technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), Quantum Computing, 5G, Blockchain, Autonomous vehicles, and Virtual Reality (VR). In the investment world today there is mostly chaos, with the DOW-JONES and S&P indexes tumbling into recession territory. As investors looking for “disruptive” opportunities we will seek out companies using technology to be useful and profitable in the new reality of this global pandemic. So, here are some general ideas that could lead to profitable investments, but as with all disruptors, these ideas are speculative and we advise caution and restraint.
Home Delivery: We all still need food and many other items, so in this time of isolation we will more than ever need items brought to us. We can’t easily go out to stores, and we can’t eat in restaurants, or drink in our favourite establishments. There are companies that use technology in very innovative ways to bring us what we need, in a way that preserves social distancing and isolation. Consider the many companies that are participants in all facets of home delivery services.
Home Entertainment: Many of us are self-isolating in our homes and we need to have our sources of entertainment. Live sports on TV are just about all postponed, and children need to have alternative sources for education and entertainment. Streaming services and social media can offer a wide range of choices, such as learning programs for all ages, video gaming, and other traditional entertainment like movies and TV shows. Digital networks are becoming overburdened and 5G technology should offer a good solution. Consider all the companies that offer streaming services and social networking, as well as those providing 5G networks for increased performance.
Video Contact: Individuals and businesses need personal contact, but traditional forms such as meetings and family dinners are off the table. The technologies for video meetings and conferences are already with us and are being improved at a rapid pace. Video chatting with friends and family is also with us now, and is very important, especially for individuals self-isolating all alone. Consider all those technology companies that provide these services and are working to develop improvements. Again, 5G implementations should help to speed up these services.
Bio-medical Innovation: Perhaps the most pressing need right now is for the multitude of supplies and equipment required to deal with those who are sick. Also needed is the development and approval of new drugs to provide a cure for COVID-19 and provide a vaccination for ongoing immunity. Consider the companies that are at the forefront of new drug development, and those companies that are ramping up or retooling to produce the much needed supplies and equipment.
The other critical resource to consider is all the workers who are on the front line of our health care services. They need our support and the support of government at all levels. Without these workers, and all the others who contribute to a solution, we would be in far worse shape – our present and our future would be a lot grimmer. We are all in this together as we continue to strive for good physical health and good financial health.
Trend Disruptors is monitoring new scientific developments and technologies, and will identify relevant investment opportunities, leading the well informed investor towards a healthy and prosperous future. TD Premium subscribers can expect some new recommendation out in the next week or so.
Stay tuned …