Recently a poster(chronic whiner) has postulated that I engage in basis off manipulation.

My belief is the individual fails to understand or appreciate the complexity of basis off management. When to take ones basis off is an individual decision. Investors have DIFFERENT asset allocation models, Different ages, different goals with regard to any particular security.

An example to highlight these DIFFERENCES would be to compare the decision making process for an OLDER investor with 90% large cap dividend payers and 10% Growth(biotech here) VS a YOUNGER investor who might have a CAPITAL APPRECIATION BIAS and an asset allocation model like 20% large cap dividend payers and 80% Growth. The older investor ALREADY HAS the issue of Capital preservation addressed with his asset allocation model and might have a BASIS OFF

strategy of taking 10% off on the Ten Bagger. The younger investor DOES NOT HAVE any insurance against ERRORS in his asset allocation model and might use a TAKE HALF OFF on the DOUBLE strategy

to offset risk. These examples highlight why there is no simple or general answer to the question "When should I take my basis off". What I know and understand is that YOU MUST GET IT DONE.

I dont design asset allocation models for individuals That is a job for your investment professional and you should consult them about it. I do post remarks from time to time in regard to my own decision making process for the purpose of TRANSPARENCY. Another goal is to influence

persons who might see me as a role model to "GET IT DONE". Following what I do EXACTLY would not

be suitable for you unless. YOU are my age. These is little or no material difference between

your balance sheet and mine. There is little or no difference between your health circumstances

and mine. You have the same number of heirs I do. Your tax circumstances are the same as mine.

I could add many more such factors.