Sure, the market is getting more and more expensive, debt levels are still high around the globe, and the Drudge Report assures us daily that the world is going to hell in a handbasket, but does this signal the end is near for stocks and the economy? This article presents 4 "big picture" charts or indicators to help determine whether the markets and economy are topping out and ready to roll over. Let’s take a look.

Is this stock market decline the "real deal" (that is, the start of a serious correction of 10% or more) or is it just another garden-variety dip in the long-running Bull market?

Although it may seem strange, the recent scramble for Bitcoin fortunes bears an odd but striking resemblance to the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. This time round, however, the miners are using computers and cryptography instead of shovels and buckets.

The consumption of illicit drugs and fighting the war on drugs is having an enormous economic impact on America. Prepare yourself for some very alarming numbers.

With the likes of Ray Dalio and billionaire George Soros placing big bets on a recovery in precious metals now is likely the time for investors to take the plunge. The key question remains, however, which precious metal? My preference is silver. Here's why.

To ignore all the compelling charts and data below would be irresponsible and, as such, will NOT go unnoticed by institutional investors. Such bearish barometers for stocks worldwide will, unfortunately, be ignored by the ignorant and gullible hoi pollo causing them severe financial loss as investor complacency in the past has nearly always led to a stock market crash.

I read Martin Armstrong because he has influence, but his writing style stinks and it is always confusing - difficult to follow and understand - and I think deliberately so. Below is an interpretation - and critique - of his latest rambling economic and political insights and manner of presentation.

2014 could end up being the turnaround year for precious metals and a bull market ascent could develop in 2015 - especially so in gold shares. Here's why.

In their infinite wisdom the Fed thinks they have rescued the economy by inflating asset prices and creating a so called "wealth affect". In reality they have created the conditions for the next Great Depression and now it's just a matter of time...[until] the forces of regression collapse this parabolic structure. When they do it will drag the global economy into the next depression. Let me explain further.

Brace yourself! The stock market is ripe for a nasty selloff according to a number of politicians and even more market pundits - but not so fast. Two very reliable long-term recession indicators strongly suggest that a correction – or worse, the end of the bull market - is highly unlikely given the current state of the economy. Let me explain.