Black Swan theory and Indian Stock Markets

black swanWhat is Black Swan Theory ?

The Black Swan theory refers to a large-impact, tough-to-predict, and rare event beyond the realm of normal expectations. The term Black Swan comes from the assumption that 'All swans are white'. In that context, a black swan was a metaphor for something that could not exist or not possible.

The "Black Swan" theory refers to events of large consequence and their dominant role in history. Black Swan events are a special category of what is called outliers.

What has got Black Swan theory got to do with Indian Markets now?

The Indian Stock Markets hit the upper circuit of 10/15/20% which hasn't happened before. This is a Black Swan Event, a rare event - no one expected. Particularly this is a Black Swan for the bears since markets have hit lower circuit many times before, but not the upper circuit.

Identifying a Black Swan Event.

1. The event is a surprise.
2. The event has a major impact.
3. After the fact, the event is rationalized by hindsight, as if it had been expected.

Another example of a Black Swan Event - Your stock broker gives a buy call and it works :)
If come to know any such events post it in the comments section.