SPDN: An Inexpensive Way To Profit When The S&P 500 Falls

Summary
SPDN is not the largest or oldest way to short the S&P 500, but it’s a solid choice.
This ETF uses a variety of financial instruments to target a return opposite that of the S&P 500 Index.
SPDN’s 0.49% Expense Ratio is nearly half that of the larger, longer-tenured -1x Inverse S&P 500 ETF.
Details aside, the potential continuation of the equity bear market makes single-inverse ETFs an investment segment investor should be familiar with.
We rate SPDN a Strong Buy because we believe the risks of a continued bear market greatly outweigh the possibility of a quick return to a bull market.
Put a gear stick into R position, (Reverse).
Birdlkportfolio

By Rob Isbitts

Summary
The S&P 500 is in a bear market, and we don’t see a quick-fix. Many investors assume the only way to navigate a potentially long-term bear market is to hide in cash, day-trade or “just hang in there” while the bear takes their retirement nest egg.

The Direxion Daily S&P 500® Bear 1X ETF (NYSEARCA:SPDN) is one of a class of single-inverse ETFs that allow investors to profit from down moves in the stock market.

SPDN is an unleveraged, liquid, low-cost way to either try to hedge an equity portfolio, profit from a decline in the S&P 500, or both. We rate it a Strong Buy, given our concern about the intermediate-term outlook for the global equity market.

Strategy
SPDN keeps it simple. If the S&P 500 goes up by X%, it should go down by X%. The opposite is also expected.

Proprietary ETF Grades
Offense/Defense: Defense

Segment: Inverse Equity

Sub-Segment: Inverse S&P 500

Correlation (vs. S&P 500): Very High (inverse)

Expected Volatility (vs. S&P 500): Similar (but opposite)

Holding Analysis
SPDN does not rely on shorting individual stocks in the S&P 500. Instead, the managers typically use a combination of futures, swaps and other derivative instruments to create a portfolio that consistently aims to deliver the opposite of what the S&P 500 does.

Strengths
SPDN is a fairly “no-frills” way to do what many investors probably wished they could do during the first 9 months of 2022 and in past bear markets: find something that goes up when the “market” goes down. After all, bonds are not the answer they used to be, commodities like gold have, shall we say, lost their luster. And moving to cash creates the issue of making two correct timing decisions, when to get in and when to get out. SPDN and its single-inverse ETF brethren offer a liquid tool to use in a variety of ways, depending on what a particular investor wants to achieve.

Weaknesses
The weakness of any inverse ETF is that it does the opposite of what the market does, when the market goes up. So, even in bear markets when the broader market trend is down, sharp bear market rallies (or any rallies for that matter) in the S&P 500 will cause SPDN to drop as much as the market goes up.

Opportunities
While inverse ETFs have a reputation in some circles as nothing more than day-trading vehicles, our own experience with them is, pardon the pun, exactly the opposite! We encourage investors to try to better-understand single inverse ETFs like SPDN. While traders tend to gravitate to leveraged inverse ETFs (which actually are day-trading tools), we believe that in an extended bear market, SPDN and its ilk could be a game-saver for many portfolios.

Threats
SPDN and most other single inverse ETFs are vulnerable to a sustained rise in the price of the index it aims to deliver the inverse of. But that threat of loss in a rising market means that when an investor considers SPDN, they should also have a game plan for how and when they will deploy this unique portfolio weapon.

Proprietary Technical Ratings
Short-Term Rating (next 3 months): Strong Buy

Long-Term Rating (next 12 months): Buy

Conclusions
ETF Quality Opinion
SPDN does what it aims to do, and has done so for over 6 years now. For a while, it was largely-ignored, given the existence of a similar ETF that has been around much longer. But the more tenured SPDN has become, the more attractive it looks as an alternative.

ETF Investment Opinion

SPDN is rated Strong Buy because the S&P 500 continues to look as vulnerable to further decline. And, while the market bottomed in mid-June, rallied, then waffled since that time, our proprietary macro market indicators all point to much greater risk of a major decline from this level than a fast return to bull market glory. Thus, SPDN is at best a way to exploit and attack the bear, and at worst a hedge on an otherwise equity-laden portfolio.

Contour Pillow: Why You Should – Sleep Better, Feel Better

Are you tired of waking up with a stiff neck and feeling groggy throughout the day? Say goodbye to restless nights and hello to better sleep with a contour pillow for your neck! This innovative pillow design has been specifically created to offer support and comfort, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and revitalized. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using a contour pillow for your neck, why it’s essential for your overall health, and how it can help you achieve a better quality of life. So grab yourself a cuppa, sit back, relax and let us take you on an informative journey towards getting that perfect night’s sleep!

Contour Pillow

Contour Pillow
A contour pillow is a great way to improve your sleep habits. Not only does it help you get a better night’s rest, but it can also reduce pain in your neck and shoulders.

Here are four reasons why you should consider adding a contour pillow to your bedtime routine:

1. It Can Help You Get A Better Night’s Rest
A contour pillow not only helps you get a more comfortable night’s sleep. But it can also reduce neck and shoulder pain. In fact, some people find that they wake up feeling more rested thanks to the improved alignment of their spine and the redistribution of pressure throughout their body.

2. It Reduces Stress And Anxiety
Many people find that using a contour pillow helps them relax and fall asleep faster. This is because the unique design of this type of pillow helps distribute pressure evenly across your head, neck and shoulders. In addition, studies have shown that sleeping on your side increases the amount of time you spend in REM sleep – one of the most restful stages of sleep – which can help relieve stress and anxiety.

3. It Improves Circulation And Clears Your Head Faster
Since a contour pillow adjusts its shape to fit your head, it helps circulate blood. And lymph better than other types of pillows. This promotes healthy blood flow throughout your body, which can keep you alert and clearheaded during the day. Additionally, since a contour pillow supports your head instead of pressing down on it. It can reduce headaches and other symptoms of sinus pressure.

4. It Can Help You Lose Weight And Tone Your Body
Since contour pillows redistribute pressure evenly across your body, they can help you lose weight and tone your body. In fact, some people find that they can even lose a few pounds without changing their diet or exercise habits at all! Additionally, a contour pillow can help improve blood circulation, which can help reduce cellulite and improve the appearance of your skin.

The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep
If you’re anything like the majority of Americans, you don’t get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, almost half of American adults report getting less than the recommended 7 hours of sleep each night! What’s more, insufficient sleep can have a major impact on your overall health.

Here are five reasons why you should give sleep a try:

1. Improved Memory and Cognition
Quantity over quality is definitely the key when it comes to sleep. As we age, our brains start to suffer from less-quality sleep, which can lead to problems with memory and cognition. In fact, one study found that people who get less than 6 hours of sleep every night are at an increased risk for developing dementia!

2. Reduced Risk for Depression and Anxiety Disorders
Sleep deprivation is also linked with an increased risk for developing depression and anxiety disorders. In fact, a study published in The Lancet found that people who slept fewer than 7 hours per night were twice as likely as those who got 8 or more hours of sleep to develop depression in the following year! And another study found that people who slept 4 or 5 hours per night were three times as likely as those who got 7 or more hours of sleep to develop anxiety disorders!

3. Reduced Risk for Heart Disease and Stroke
Poorly sleeping can also lead to heart disease and stroke. Studies have shown that people who get less than 6 hours of sleep each night are at an increased risk for developing cardiovascular diseases. And research has also shown that people who sleep 5 or fewer hours per night are 3 times as likely as those who get 7 or more hours of sleep to develop stroke!

4. Increased Risk for Diabetes and Obesity
People who don’t get enough sleep are also at an increased risk for developing diabetes and obesity. In fact, a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people who slept 5 or fewer hours per night were almost twice as likely as those who got 6 or more hours of sleep to have a BMI over 30! And another study found that people who slept 4 or fewer hours per night were nearly three times as likely as those who got 7 or more hours of sleep to have a BMI over 25!

5. Reduced Risk for Cancer
Studies have shown that people who get enough sleep have a reduced risk for developing various types of cancer. In fact, a study published in Sleep found that people who slept 7 or more hours per night had a 50% reduction in the risk of developing breast cancer! And another study published in Cancer found that people who slept 6 or 7 hours per night had a 40% reduction in the risk of developing both breast and prostate cancer!

Sleeping Positions for the Neck
If you suffer from neck pain, you may want to consider using a contour pillow instead of your traditional flat pillow. A contour pillow is designed to conform to your natural shape and make it easier for your neck muscles to rest. There are a variety of sleeping positions that you can use with a contour pillow. And each one will suit your individual needs.

Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including Structural abnormalities in the spine, Trauma or accidents, Osteoarthritis, Whiplash syndrome and Poor posture. If you’re suffering from neck pain and cannot find relief from standard therapies such as medication or physical therapy. Using a contour pillow may be the solution for you.

There are three main types of contour pillows: round, oval and oblong. The round type is the most common and is designed to fit around your head like a hat. The oval type is broader at the base and narrower towards the top, which makes it more comfortable to sleep on your side or stomach. The oblong type is similar to an oval but has a flatter surface that’s better suited for people who sleep on their back or stomach.

To find the right sleeping position for you with a contour pillow. Try out different positions until you find one that feels comfortable. You should also make sure that the pillow is level across all angles. So that it doesn’t cause any discomfort in any part of your neck. When you’re ready to sleep, place the pillow between your head and the rest of your pillowcase. And then gently prop your head up so that it’s in a comfortable position.

Some people prefer to use a contour pillow with a sleeping mask because the mask helps to keep their head cool and reduces the risk of snoring. If you’re using a contour pillow with a sleeping mask, make sure that the mask is properly fitted. So that it doesn’t move around during the night.

How Does A Contour Pillow Work?
A contour pillow is designed to provide the perfect shape and support for your neck. This type of pillow is making with a raised surface along one edge and a gradual decline towards the other edge, which creates a gentle curve that helps relieve tension in your neck and shoulders.

According to research, using a contour pillow for neck can significantly improve your sleep quality. Studies have found that people who use this type of pillow are less likely to experience Neck pain or headaches in the morning. Additionally, people who use contour pillows often report feeling more refreshed after sleep and more rested during the day.

If you’re looking for an extra layer of comfort and support when it comes to sleeping. Consider investing in a contour pillow. Not only will you get better sleep, but you’ll also feel better both physically and emotionally in the morning.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Contour Pillow?
Do you find yourself tossing and turning in your sleep? Do you feel like your neck is always sore? If so, you may be experiencing the effects of a bad sleeping posture. A memory foam contour pillow can help improve your sleep by helping to correct your sleeping position.

A contour pillow is design to conform to the curves of your neck, which helps relieve tension in your neck and shoulders. By promoting good alignment and reducing pressure on your cervical spine. A contour pillow can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your sleep habits, consider investing in a contour memory foam pillow. Not only will it make you more comfortable during nightfall. But it could also lead to less pain in the morning.

Why Should You Buy A Contour Pillow?
If you suffer from neck pain, a contour pillow is a must-have for a better night’s sleep.

Here are 5 reasons why you should buy one:

A contour pillow supports your head and neck.
It helps to correct alignment problems and alleviate tension and pain in the neck and shoulders.
It reduces wrinkles and eliminates bags under the eyes.
It firms up the skin around your neck, giving you a youthful appearance!
Most importantly, it gives you the deep, restful sleep that you need to feel refreshed the next day!
What Are The Best Types Of Contour Pillows?
There are a lot of contour pillows on the market. So it can be hard to decide which one is the right fit for you.

Here are four types of contour pillows that may be perfect for you:

Cervical Pillow: This type of pillow is design to support your neck. And help reduce pain in your neck and shoulders. It also helps to reduce snoring and improve sleep quality.
Side-Lying Pillow: This type of pillow is design to help you get a good night’s sleep by supporting your head, neck, and spine while you sleep. It also helps keep your head from staying “over-tilted” during sleep, which can cause problems such as headache or neck pain.
Back sleeper? This type of pillow is perfect for people who sleep on their back. It supports your upper body and spine while you sleep, which can help relieve pain in your neck and shoulders.
Contour Memory Foam Pillow: This type of pillow is making with memory foam, which will conform to your body as you fall asleep. So that it helps distribute pressure evenly across your entire neck and spine.
Conclusion
If you are like most people, you spend a third of your life sleeping. So it is no wonder that poor sleep habits can lead to all sorts of problems, from feeling tired. And unmotivated to developing chronic health conditions such as obesity and heart disease. To make sure you get the best night’s sleep possible, invest in a contour pillow that will support your neck and reduce any tension or pain in your head and neck area.

SEO Software: Trying To Catch The Spiders…

SEO software does what exactly?SEO software frequently starts from the following assumption:- look at the page that ranks number 1 in Google,- do exactly the same + a bit better,- and you will be number 1SEO software will then examine “all” the SEO parameters that it finds out about the number 1 site in Google. Then this SE software will automate the process in mimicking this for your site.SEO is more than a software-approach!SEO is the art of ranking number 1 in any search engine for any keyword.Spiders rank a web site number one because spiders “think” that this site deserves to be number one. Of course the spider cannot think: there needs to be a programmer who programs the spider to find out which site is best.Now if you are smart enough to feed the spider exactly what the programmer thinks is important, you will have the knowledge to rank number 1.This is exactly what SEO software does: it claims to know and tackle “all” the parameters that make a web site ranking number 1.Pitfalls of a software-approach to SEOSuppose you find all the parameters needed to rank a web site number 1. You manage to get all this parameters onto your site and you even manage to be rank number 1.Now if your site is really deserving to be ranked number 1, all is fine. But if surfers start complaining that you are not, the search engine will be blamed!It won’t take long until Google finds out that “somebody broke the code” of the spiders. The spiders will be updated to give quality results to the visitors!This means you need to get an upgrade of your SEO software approach… : you are running after the facts in stead of above the facts.How to be ranked number 1?You rank number 1 because you deserve it.In spider logic this still means:- your page talks about the keyword you are optimizing for- you page has lots of incoming links about the keyword you are optimizing for.This is what ranking number 1 should be about.But my SEO software is really up to date, or is it not?Your software can only be up to date AFTER the spiders’ software is updated. Unless you write the spiders yourself, you will always be a bit later.You cannot know all the parameters the spider takes into account, unless again you are writing the spider software yourself.Some of the parameters you cannot influence: age of the web site is one of them. Suppose the spider needs to choose between 2 websites: the oldest one and the SEO mimic: which one to choose? The oldest one would be the easiest bet, and you cannot change the age of your web site can you?A close look at SEO softwareSEO software advertisements could say that you can get a top 5 Google Ranking in under 30 Days… If that is true, then check out to see:- is the web site of this SEO software ranking number 1 in Google for SEO or SEO software?- are the example web sites the SEO software mentions to be ranked number 1, really number 1: number 1 in Google that is?It’s very easy to type in the keyword phrase of the SEO software example web site and see if they are number 1 or not.And don’t be fooled by SEO software that gives numerous examples of number 1 rankings in MSN or Yahoo: if you want to have a long lasting number 1 ranking in any of the search engines, you better start having a number 1 ranking in Google.I didn’t say that it is a guarantee to rank number 1 in Yahoo and MSN once you rank number 1 in Google, but you will surely be high up there as well. On the other hand, a number 1 ranking in MSN can mean that you are no where to be found in Yahoo nor Google.So you say: well, then I just try to rank number 1 in MSN since it seems to be easier. Well, it is easier, but then it is easier for your competition as well, so it won’t take then too much effort to out-play you again. Therefor do the job good once and for all: thrive to be number 1 in Google and then fine-tune if needed for MSN or Yahoo.Why do you do SEO in the first place?SEO is 1 of the ways to get more traffic to your web site. But there is more in getting a lot of traffic to your site, than “blindly ranking 1 in Google”:— Always make sure you rank number 1 for a word a lot of people are looking for! —If you buy any SEO software or out-source your SEO to the SEO specialists: always check their SEO examples:- are they ranking number 1- are the keywords they rank for popular search keywords (bigger than 10.000 searches a month in the Keyword Selector Tool from Yahoo’s search-marketing is considered not too low)- how long did it take them to be number 1- how big is the competition for the keyword-phrase (smaller or bigger than 5 million? As a general rule : above 5 million keyword-phrase results in Google, things become though)- how big is the competition for the quoted “keyword-phrase” (smaller or bigger than 33.000? As a general rule : above 33.000 quoted “keyword-phrase” results in Google, things become though)If for all these items the SEO software or SEO specialist can answer YES, then you can start taking them very seriously!Try it out for each example web site any SEO software claims to have ranked number 1 for a certain keyword-phrase. And of course, always start with checking if they are ranking number 1 in the first place! If they are not, then you are going to buy SEO software that doesn’t do the job! Ranking number 2 is ALMOST number 1, and even worse, ranking number 9 is nowhere near to ranking number 1.SEO software web sitesWhenever you are interested in something to buy on the Internet, check out the overall web site of the product you want to buy!Some SEO software web sites are 1 page web sites: just 1 page with the product, no links, no extra pages…Again back to basics. What was the first idea to set up the Internet? To give people information, lots of information.And we are talking about a “NET” in Inter”NET”: “net” means links here, links there, links everywhere… (that’s why links are so important in SEO)If you don’t see lots of links nor lots of content on a web site about SEO, then the SEO web site is not serious about its own subject: SEO!Back to Basics: web-trafficYour purpose is getting as much people to your site as possible, isn’t it?SEO software has the purpose of ranking 1 in Google.Now it is very easy to rank 1 in Google for the keyword-phrase “jhdkghgkbdcds”,
but who is looking for “jhdkghgkbdcds”??? Nobody!So if nobody looks for “jhdkghgkbdcds”, then why bother to rank number 1 with it?What is a nice number when it comes to “popular keyword searches”? If you use the Overture Keyword tool, anything above 10.000 searches a month means quite popular, but: also know that above 10.000 “the big boys’ are competing
with you, below 1.000 you have the field for yourself. So a good SEO advice is work yourself from the bottom up: start with keywords that are not so popular, and once you are ranked high for those, then tackle the next more popular keyword on the list.SEO software ConclusionSEO is the art to feed the spiders what they like.
SEO software is running after the spiders trying to catch their attention.Always check the numbers and the facts about any SEO software and (this) SEO article!Then make a decision yourself. If you see that the SEO software- is ranking well for it’s own product- is ranking web sites for popular keyword well,only then you can consider buying it.