The Investing Meltup: Understanding the Psychology of FOMO and TINA - 11/01/2025

John Berkley welcomes clinical psychologist Dr. Jim Burns to discuss the psychological forces driving today's expensive market. The conversation explores the current "meltup"—an extraordinarily rapid price increase detached from valuations—that is fueled by emotion, not rational behavior.
A major focus is on FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and TINA (There Is No Alternative), which have pushed investors out of bond equivalents and into risk assets. Dr. Burns notes that historical economic models assumed investors were rational, but financial decisions are often made emotionally. Berkeley emphasizes that current high valuations suggest expectations should be managed, and the key takeaway is the importance of adopting and adhering to a consistent investment strategy to avoid making poor choices based on market swings. The hosts also warn that the "backside" of a meltup can be severe.