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January 28, 2008

Citigroup - Opportunity or Death Rattle?
by Mick P

It's not very often you will find me focusing on one share but something rather important has happened to Citigroup [C]. Firstly let me explain I am not, most assuredly not, recommending any position in Citi. I don't "do" recommendations and as most of you who read my articles know, I prefer to look for the longer term effects. Think of this article more along the lines of a follow up to A beginners Guide To Credit Default Swaps and CDS, An Example in Real Time.

Citigroup is in serious trouble. It's not the first time Citi has been threatened but it may be the last. Too many risks have been taken without adequate protection or examination. Whilst previous episodes of credit collapse were eventually seen off, with a little outside investment help, this time the problem may be just too big. If Citigroup does start waving a white flag, the repercussions will be enormous.

I am going to rule out a takeover/buyout similar to the Bank of America / Countrywide deal. That deal was not, in my opinion, about a grab for cheap assets. I believe BoA had too much invested in Countrywide to allow it to file for bankruptcy. I also suspect BoA may also have been exposed to large counterparty agreements that would have cost much more than BoA have paid to absorb Countrywide. Essentially BoA have covered their own position.

Citigroup will not get such kind treatment. Instead of it being "too big to fail" I think it may be "too opaque to sell". Firstly, here is a chart of Citi, it is telling us what the market thinks:

It's a weekly chart going back to 1997. I have circled the 4 important lows: 1998, 2002 x 2 and current. Citi is now valued at the 2002 low price, including any inflation or $ devaluation effects. This is one ugly share to own if you are not a US based owner. Notice the subtle difference between the current low and the previous 3. Previously Citi spiked down into its low and then rebounded rapidly.

The current low is different, a sustained period of selling continues whilst the oversold condition persists. It is the opposite condition of continued buying whilst in an overbought condition as seen in 1999/2000. Unless a financial miracle occurs Citigroup is going lower, 1998 anyone? If my suspicions come to fruition then the price may well end up quoted in cents.

Can I relate fundamentals to the chart view? Yes I can. To read the rest of this letter click here.

As usual please feel free to pass on this email or links to the blog to anyone you think may be interested.

However it has been pointed out to me that portions of my Occasional Letters and the articles for Livewire have been used in the writings of others. As flattering as that is, if you do intend to quote me, please use a link to my blog or the Livewire article and acknowledge the source.

Mick P (Collection Agency)
About Collection Agency

An Occasional Letter From The Collection Agency In association with Live Charts UK.

For some years now I have written an ongoing letter, using macro-economics, to try and peer into the economic future 6 to 18 months ahead. The letter was posted on a financial bulletin board to allow others discuss its topic.The letter contains no recommendations to buy or sell, indeed I leave that to all the other letters out there and to the readers own judgement. The letter is designed to make us all think about what may be coming, what macro trends are occurring and how that will affect future trends and how those trends will filter down to everyday life and help spot weak or strong areas to focus on for trading or investing.

To contact Michael or discuss the letters topic E Mail mickp@livecharts.co.uk.

Copyright © 2006-2008 Mick P

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