So I used ChatGPT to write a story

Stefan
18 min readApr 28, 2023

I am currently testing AI based solutions privately and professionally.

With ChatGPT I experience a high productivity gain in writing articles or scripts. Additionally I do have to voice my amazement on how much this feels like having an intelligent discussion.

While it does not take long to recognize that ChatGPT is somewhat a yes-man at times, there is even a learning effect I can take away from time to time. Clearly the more outside the box your logic, the harder it is to get reasonable responses.

When working with an AI people speak about promting. What is a prompt? A prompt would usually consists of 1–3 sentences raising an issue, or asking a question that you will have to respond to in an essay. The response here is generated by a software.

Here’s my full conversation with ChatGPT testing the waters on responses refining the promting to get to a resonable outcome.

The result was an article on the aspired topic in under an hour, which would usually take me half a day to finally get the structure and language good enough to wanting to post it. It works surprisingly good even with complex sentences or typos in the prompt.

What is emerging is the understanding how much this might influence our near-term reality. I did not have a hard time to set assumption on what reality will likely look like, although there is no proof of it. Now replace that with our day to day narratives that dominate public debate and imagine how this could influence communication.

Either way it seems like a mighty tool that I will very likely continue using.

Here we go:

Me: With the ongoing demographic development in many industrialized countries, is it reasonable to expect that more people will sell assets to finance their consumption in retirement, which would increase demand for money and decrease demand for investment opportunities?

ChatGPT: The demographic development in many industrialized countries, characterized by an aging population, can indeed have an impact on the economy and financial markets. It is reasonable to expect that as more people approach retirement age, some individuals may choose to sell assets to finance their consumption in retirement. This decision could potentially increase the demand for money and decrease the demand for investment opportunities.

When individuals sell assets, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate, they typically convert those assets into cash. This increased demand for money can put upward pressure on interest rates, as more individuals compete for available funds. Higher interest rates can make borrowing more expensive for businesses and individuals, potentially leading to a decrease in investment activity.

Additionally, the decrease in the demand for investment opportunities may occur because retirees typically have different investment objectives compared to younger individuals. Retirees often seek more stable and income-generating assets to support their retirement needs. This shift in investment preferences can reduce the demand for riskier assets, such as stocks or venture capital investments, which are typically associated with higher potential returns but also higher volatility.

However, it’s important to note that the impact of demographic developments on the economy and financial markets is complex and can be influenced by various factors, including government policies, technological advancements, and global economic conditions. Moreover, individual behaviors and preferences can vary, and not all retirees will necessarily sell assets to finance their consumption in retirement. Some individuals may have other sources of income, such as pensions or savings, while others may choose to continue investing their assets.

Therefore, while it is reasonable to expect that some people will sell assets to finance their consumption in retirement, the overall impact on the demand for money and investment opportunities will depend on a range of factors and individual choices.

Me: The current development of an emerging multipolar world and repatriation of supply chains leads to inefficiencies and therefore higher cost for economies. Higher cost is a factor in producer prices and could end up in consumer prices leading to higher inflation. Can an ongoing de-globalization lead to a continued trend of higher inflation and how probable is that scenario?

ChatGPT: The ongoing development of an emerging multipolar world and the repatriation of supply chains can indeed introduce new dynamics to global economies. While it is possible that de-globalization and the associated higher costs could contribute to inflationary pressures, the overall impact on inflation is complex and depends on various factors. It is important to consider both the short-term and long-term effects.

In the short term, the repatriation of supply chains and the restructuring of global trade relationships can lead to disruptions and inefficiencies. When businesses face higher costs due to factors like increased transportation expenses or the need to establish local manufacturing facilities, they may pass on these costs to consumers in the form of higher prices. This can contribute to inflationary pressures, particularly in sectors that heavily rely on imported goods or international supply chains.

However, in the long term, the effects of de-globalization on inflation are not necessarily straightforward. While higher costs may initially lead to price increases, the adjustment process can also involve various countervailing forces. For instance, as supply chains become more localized, companies may invest in automation and technological advancements to offset higher labor costs. These efficiencies could mitigate the upward pressure on prices.

Moreover, the impact of de-globalization on inflation also depends on other macroeconomic factors, such as monetary policy, fiscal policy, and domestic demand conditions. Central banks have the ability to manage inflation through their monetary policies, such as adjusting interest rates or implementing quantitative easing measures. Governments can also implement fiscal policies to stimulate or moderate demand.

The probability of an ongoing de-globalization leading to a continued trend of higher inflation is challenging to determine with certainty. It depends on a multitude of factors, including the extent of de-globalization, the efficiency gains achieved through localized production, the effectiveness of monetary and fiscal policies, and the overall economic conditions. Additionally, the behavior and expectations of consumers and businesses play a crucial role in shaping inflationary dynamics.

It is worth noting that economic trends are complex and subject to change based on various factors and policy decisions. Therefore, it is important to consider multiple perspectives and closely monitor economic developments to assess the probability of a sustained trend of higher inflation resulting from ongoing de-globalization.

Me: If there is a short-term trend for increasing prices, is it reasonable to assume that company margins overall have a tendency of falling, and that wages could have a tendency of increasing? Can such a development be seen for available data?

ChatGPT: During a short-term trend of increasing prices, it is reasonable to assume that company margins may have a tendency to fall. When input costs rise, such as raw materials, labor, or transportation expenses, companies may face higher production costs, which can put pressure on their profit margins. In order to maintain profitability, companies may either absorb some of the increased costs or pass them on to consumers in the form of higher prices. However, passing on all the cost increases may not always be possible, as it depends on factors such as market competitiveness and consumer demand.

As for wages, during a period of rising prices, there could be a tendency for wages to increase as well. Inflation erodes the purchasing power of individuals, and workers may seek wage increases to keep up with the rising cost of living. Additionally, labor markets can become tighter during inflationary periods, with increased competition among employers to attract and retain skilled workers. This can lead to upward pressure on wages as companies try to maintain a motivated workforce.

Regarding available data, the relationship between price increases, company margins, and wage trends can vary across different industries, sectors, and countries. It is important to analyze specific datasets and economic indicators to understand the dynamics within a given context. Macroeconomic indicators like inflation rates, labor market data (such as wage growth and unemployment rates), and corporate profit reports can provide insights into these trends.

Empirical evidence can reveal instances where increasing prices have led to tighter company margins and wage increases. However, it is also important to note that the relationship can be complex and influenced by other factors, such as productivity levels, bargaining power, and overall economic conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the specific data and factors relevant to a particular situation or region to draw accurate conclusions about the relationship between prices, company margins, and wage trends.

Me: If we assume that we see moderate increase levels of inflation and increasing wages, is it reasonable to say that investing into oneself in terms of professional education might be a better investment than investing into companies?

ChatGPT: In the scenario of moderate levels of inflation and increasing wages, it can be reasonable to consider investing in oneself through professional education as a potentially valuable investment. Here are a few reasons why:

  1. Enhancing skills and knowledge: Investing in professional education can help individuals acquire new skills, upgrade existing ones, and gain knowledge that is relevant to their field. This can improve their marketability and increase their earning potential, especially in a situation where wages are rising. By staying up-to-date with industry trends and acquiring in-demand skills, individuals can position themselves for better career prospects and potentially higher wages.
  2. Adaptability and resilience: In an environment of moderate inflation and changing economic conditions, investing in oneself through professional education can provide individuals with a higher level of adaptability and resilience. By continually upgrading skills and knowledge, individuals can be better equipped to navigate the evolving job market and seize emerging opportunities. This can reduce the risk of obsolescence and improve long-term career prospects.
  3. Personal development and fulfillment: Professional education not only enhances career prospects but also offers personal growth and fulfillment. Engaging in learning and pursuing intellectual interests can provide a sense of satisfaction and personal achievement. It can also broaden one’s perspective and open doors to new possibilities, both professionally and personally.

While investing in oneself through professional education can offer numerous benefits, it is important to consider that investing in companies or other assets can also have its advantages. Diversification of investments is generally recommended to spread risk and maximize returns. Investing in stocks, bonds, real estate, or other investment opportunities can provide opportunities for capital appreciation and passive income generation.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in oneself or invest in companies depends on an individual’s goals, risk tolerance, and the specific investment opportunities available. It may be beneficial to strike a balance between personal development and financial investments to build a well-rounded portfolio that aligns with one’s objectives.

Me: I would like to specifically review the changing trends in where wages increase more than before and margins fall compared to the prior average. Logically this could result in capital investments performing relatively worse than before and investments into personal proficency more than before. From that I wonder if the recommendation should be to focus on the personal development instead on capital investments.

ChatGPT: When considering changing trends where wages are increasing more than before and margins are falling compared to the prior average, it is reasonable to assess the potential implications for investment decisions. In such a scenario, where wage growth outpaces profit margins, it could suggest that investing in personal proficiency through education and skills development may become relatively more attractive compared to traditional capital investments. However, it is important to consider the broader context and individual circumstances.

Here are a few points to consider when evaluating the focus on personal development versus capital investments:

  1. Potential returns: Investing in personal proficiency through education and skills development can potentially offer long-term benefits in terms of increased earning potential and career advancement. However, it is essential to assess the potential returns on investment by considering factors such as the cost of education, the time and effort required, and the expected impact on future earnings. Conversely, capital investments can provide opportunities for diversification, passive income generation, and potential capital appreciation.
  2. Risk tolerance and timeframe: Personal development through education is typically a long-term investment in oneself, which may require patience and perseverance. Capital investments can vary in terms of risk profiles and timeframes, and individuals should evaluate their risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals to determine the most suitable approach.
  3. Individual preferences and passions: Personal development through education can be fulfilling and aligned with individual passions and interests. It can lead to a sense of personal growth and satisfaction. On the other hand, some individuals may have a natural inclination or expertise in investing or entrepreneurship, making capital investments a more appealing option.
  4. Diversification and balance: While personal development is valuable, it is generally recommended to maintain a diversified portfolio that includes a mix of investments. Balancing personal development with capital investments can help mitigate risk, capture various opportunities, and provide financial stability.

It is essential to carefully evaluate the changing trends, personal circumstances, financial goals, and risk tolerance when making investment decisions. A holistic approach that considers both personal development and capital investments can offer a well-rounded strategy. Seeking guidance from financial advisors or experts can also provide valuable insights tailored to individual circumstances.

Me: Is it not true that companies hire less and have a more rigid selection process what they are in tighter financial conditions? Would these companies then not hire the best choice from the labor pool, which would favor those who invested into their education, while it would leave other behind?

ChatGPT: In tighter financial conditions, companies may indeed adopt a more cautious approach to hiring and have a more stringent selection process. When companies face financial constraints, they may prioritize hiring candidates who possess the necessary skills and qualifications that directly align with their immediate needs. This can result in a more competitive labor market where individuals who have invested in their education and acquired relevant skills may have an advantage in securing employment opportunities.

Here are a few factors to consider in relation to the impact on hiring practices and the potential advantages for those who have invested in education:

  1. Skill requirements and job market demands: Companies may have specific skill requirements for the roles they need to fill. During tighter financial conditions, they might prioritize candidates who already possess the desired skills, reducing the investment needed for training and onboarding. Individuals who have invested in their education and developed relevant expertise may be more likely to meet these skill requirements, giving them an advantage in the hiring process.
  2. Competitive advantage for candidates: Investing in education and skills development can provide individuals with a competitive edge in the labor market. Enhanced qualifications and proficiency in sought-after areas can make candidates stand out and be more attractive to employers, especially when companies are being selective due to financial constraints. This advantage may favor individuals who have made the effort to invest in their education.
  3. Potential disparities and challenges: While investing in education can offer advantages, it’s important to acknowledge that not all individuals have equal access to educational opportunities or resources. Socioeconomic factors, systemic barriers, and other inequalities can influence an individual’s ability to invest in education and skills development. This can lead to disparities and challenges for individuals who may not have had the same opportunities to invest in their education.

It is crucial to approach this topic with sensitivity and acknowledge that hiring decisions are influenced by various factors beyond just education, such as experience, cultural fit, and company-specific needs. While investing in education can increase the likelihood of being hired, it does not guarantee employment or eliminate other important aspects of the hiring process.

Moreover, companies also have an incentive to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce, recognizing the value of different perspectives and experiences. This means that hiring decisions are not solely based on educational qualifications, but also on a broader range of factors.

In summary, investing in education can provide individuals with a competitive advantage in the hiring process, especially during tighter financial conditions. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential disparities and challenges that exist, and to consider the broader range of factors that influence hiring decisions.

Me: Would it makes sense to expect increase inflation, increasing wages, decreasing margins, increasing state budget deficits and assume lower capital market returns.

ChatGPT: It is reasonable to consider a scenario where increasing inflation, increasing wages, decreasing margins, and increasing state budget deficits could potentially lead to lower capital market returns. Let’s examine each component:

  1. Increasing inflation: If inflation rises, it can erode the purchasing power of money over time. Higher inflation can lead to increased production costs, which may result in higher prices for goods and services. Inflation can impact investment returns by reducing the real value of investment gains.
  2. Increasing wages: Rising wages can contribute to higher production costs for businesses. If companies are unable to fully pass on these increased costs to consumers through higher prices, it may put pressure on profit margins. Reduced profit margins can impact the overall profitability of companies and potentially lower returns for investors.
  3. Decreasing margins: When companies face rising costs, such as higher wages or increased input prices, it can squeeze their profit margins. Decreasing margins can impact the profitability of businesses and, in turn, affect the returns on investments in those companies.
  4. Increasing state budget deficits: If state budget deficits increase, governments may need to borrow more to fund their spending. This can lead to increased government debt levels and potentially higher interest rates. Higher interest rates can have an impact on capital market returns, making borrowing more expensive for companies and reducing investment opportunities.

Given these factors, it is plausible to expect that the combination of increasing inflation, increasing wages, decreasing margins, and increasing state budget deficits could put downward pressure on capital market returns. However, it is important to note that financial markets are influenced by a wide range of factors, and the relationship between these variables is complex. Other factors, such as monetary policy, fiscal policy, global economic conditions, and investor sentiment, can also significantly impact capital market returns.

Investors should carefully consider the prevailing economic environment, conduct thorough research, and diversify their investments to manage risk and optimize returns in such conditions. Consulting with financial advisors or experts can provide additional insights tailored to individual investment goals and circumstances.

Me: Write an article summarizing our discussion in this thread that highlights the pros and cons of the arguments made.

ChatGPT: Title: Navigating Changing Economic Dynamics: Balancing Personal Development and Capital Investments

Introduction: In a dynamic economic landscape characterized by factors like inflation, wage growth, decreasing margins, and increasing state budget deficits, individuals face important decisions regarding their investments. This article explores the pros and cons of two key investment avenues: personal development through education and traditional capital investments.

Pros of Personal Development: Investing in personal proficiency through education and skills development offers several advantages in the face of changing economic trends:

  1. Enhanced employability: Upgrading skills and acquiring knowledge can make individuals more attractive to employers in a competitive labor market. Higher educational qualifications and in-demand skills can provide a competitive edge, increasing the chances of securing desired employment.
  2. Adaptability and resilience: Personal development fosters adaptability, equipping individuals with the ability to navigate changing economic conditions. Continuous education ensures individuals remain relevant and resilient, reducing the risk of obsolescence and enhancing long-term career prospects.
  3. Personal fulfillment: Pursuing personal development through education is not solely about financial gains. It offers personal growth, fulfillment, and intellectual satisfaction, enabling individuals to broaden their horizons and explore new opportunities.

Cons of Personal Development: While investing in personal development has its advantages, several considerations warrant attention:

  1. Cost and time investment: Education and skills development often require significant investments of time and money. Individuals must carefully assess the potential returns on investment in terms of improved career prospects and increased earning potential.
  2. Inequalities and barriers: Socioeconomic disparities and systemic barriers can limit access to quality education and skills development opportunities. Unequal access can create disparities, disadvantaging individuals who lack the resources or opportunities to invest in their education.

Pros of Capital Investments: Traditional capital investments also have their merits:

  1. Diversification and potential returns: Capital investments, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, provide opportunities for diversification and potential capital appreciation. These investments can generate passive income and potentially deliver higher returns over the long term.
  2. Market opportunities: Despite changing economic dynamics, well-researched capital investments can uncover market opportunities, even in challenging times. Skilled investors can identify undervalued assets and benefit from market trends.

Cons of Capital Investments: Capital investments come with their own set of considerations:

  1. Risk and volatility: Capital markets are subject to fluctuations and volatility. Economic factors, investor sentiment, and global conditions can impact investment returns, making them less predictable.
  2. Financial constraints: In times of tight financial conditions, companies may face declining margins, impacting their profitability and potentially leading to lower returns for investors. State budget deficits can increase borrowing costs and impact investment opportunities.

Conclusion: In navigating the changing economic landscape, individuals must carefully weigh the pros and cons of investing in personal development versus traditional capital investments. Personal development through education enhances employability, adaptability, and personal fulfillment. However, it requires significant investments of time and money and faces challenges of accessibility and inequality. Capital investments offer diversification and potential returns but entail risks and can be influenced by changing economic dynamics.

A balanced approach that combines personal development and capital investments is advisable. Emphasizing personal development can enhance skills, employability, and adaptability, while capital investments provide opportunities for diversification and potential financial growth. Each individual must consider their own circumstances, risk tolerance, and financial goals to find the optimal balance between personal development and capital investments in navigating the ever-changing economic landscape.

Me: Adjust the article along the following points:
— remove and replace the equality arguments. They make no sense. If a person has money to invest and has to decide between these options there is hardly a barrier.
— Also don’t touch on market opportunities but assume we want to rake in overall equity margins of a globally diversified ETF portfolio.
— What I am additionally missing is the developing tendencies towards lower capital market gains and increasing wages, which might make it interesting to consider personal development more than before.

ChatGPT: Title: Navigating Changing Economic Dynamics: Balancing Personal Development and Capital Investments

Introduction: In a rapidly evolving economic landscape marked by factors such as inflation, wage growth, and changing market dynamics, individuals face crucial decisions regarding their investment strategies. This article explores the advantages and considerations of two key investment avenues: personal development through education and traditional capital investments.

Pros of Personal Development: Investing in personal proficiency through education and skills development offers several advantages in light of changing economic trends:

  1. Enhanced employability: Upgrading skills and acquiring knowledge can significantly enhance an individual’s employability. Continuous education ensures that individuals remain competitive in a dynamic labor market, increasing their chances of securing desirable employment opportunities.
  2. Adaptability and resilience: Personal development fosters adaptability, equipping individuals with the skills needed to navigate shifting economic conditions. By continuously upgrading their skills and knowledge, individuals can remain agile and resilient, reducing the risk of becoming obsolete and enhancing their long-term career prospects.
  3. Personal fulfillment and growth: Pursuing personal development through education provides a sense of personal fulfillment and intellectual growth. It allows individuals to broaden their horizons, explore new opportunities, and gain a deeper understanding of their field of interest.

Pros of Capital Investments: Traditional capital investments, specifically globally diversified ETF portfolios, offer their own set of advantages:

  1. Potential for long-term returns: Investing in a globally diversified ETF portfolio can provide potential returns over the long term. Historical data has shown that global equity markets tend to deliver positive returns over extended investment horizons.
  2. Diversification and risk management: Capital investments allow for diversification across different asset classes and geographies, reducing the overall investment risk. A well-diversified portfolio can help mitigate the impact of market volatility and specific company risks.

Considering Developing Trends: Given the developing tendencies towards lower capital market gains and increasing wages, it becomes pertinent to consider the following factors:

  1. Changing investment landscape: Lower expected capital market gains suggest a potential shift in the investment landscape. While capital investments can still offer long-term returns, the overall market conditions may result in lower yields compared to previous periods.
  2. Increasing wages and personal development: The increasing trend of wages provides an opportunity to explore personal development as an attractive investment option. Investing in oneself through education and skills development can enhance career prospects, potentially leading to higher earning potential and increased job security.

Conclusion: In navigating the changing economic landscape, individuals must carefully consider the advantages of personal development and traditional capital investments, specifically globally diversified ETF portfolios. Personal development through education enhances employability, adaptability, and personal fulfillment. Capital investments offer long-term returns and risk diversification. Given the developing tendencies of lower capital market gains and increasing wages, it becomes even more compelling to consider personal development as a valuable investment option. Striking a balance between personal development and capital investments can provide individuals with a well-rounded approach to navigate the evolving economic dynamics and maximize their financial prospects.

Me: Mention continued inefficiencies in global supply chains from de-globalization in the section “Changing investment landscape”. Mention increasing overall age from demographic changes and the changes in demand for services versus the supply of workforce to satisfy those in the section “increasing wages and personal development”

ChatGPT: Revised section “Changing investment landscape”:

Considering the evolving investment landscape, it is important to acknowledge the continued inefficiencies resulting from the trend of de-globalization and repatriation of supply chains. The shift away from global interconnectedness may lead to disruptions and increased costs in supply chains, affecting the overall efficiency of businesses. These inefficiencies could potentially impact profit margins and overall market dynamics, contributing to a more challenging investment environment.

Revised section “Increasing wages and personal development”:

The increasing trend of wages is not only influenced by economic factors but also by demographic changes. The overall aging population in many industrialized countries has led to a shift in the demand for services, such as healthcare, retirement planning, and leisure activities. However, the supply of the workforce to satisfy these demands is often limited due to the aging population. As a result, there is an increasing need for skilled professionals in sectors catering to the needs of the aging population.

In this context, personal development through education becomes even more relevant. Investing in professional education and acquiring specialized skills can position individuals to meet the demands of the evolving workforce needs. By focusing on personal development, individuals can capitalize on the increasing demand for services driven by demographic changes, potentially leading to higher wages and greater career opportunities in sectors experiencing growth due to shifting demographics.

Conclusion: In navigating the changing economic landscape, individuals must consider the impact of continued inefficiencies resulting from de-globalization on the investment landscape. Additionally, the demographic changes, including an aging population, should be taken into account when examining the increasing trend of wages and the importance of personal development. By acknowledging these factors, individuals can make informed decisions that incorporate the evolving economic dynamics, allowing them to adapt, thrive, and capitalize on the emerging opportunities in the market.

--

--

Stefan

Strategy consultant with a brief history in asset management.