Dear Fellow Stargazers,

A very Happy Full Moon and a Happy Christmas!

The last time we had a Full Moon on Christmas Day was back in 1977. That event though did not coincide with a Uranus’ station nor did it fall between two important eclipses. On this occasion it seems highly likely that there will be a surprise and unexpected element to these few days – especially for those whose birthdays are on or within two days of March 24^th, June 25^th, September 24^th or December 25^th. These people may be poised to move in very different directions in 2016.

As I mentioned in my last letter, I have concerns about weather patterns and earth activity around this Full Moon. Already we are told to expect more flooding here in the UK. This morning’s news announced deaths as a result of tornadoes in the US and mudslides affecting China. Given the Moon’s position there may be more devastation to come.

The news from Afghanistan is worrying with the Taleban making unexpected gain. Though this situation might well reverse, it is all part of the war cycles that sadly have yet to peak.

Sticking for the moment with the gloomy news: a look at equity index movement generally over the next few weeks is not encouraging. Mercury stations on January 6^th and in the first degree of Aquarius. The last time this happened was in in 1970. As then, Mercury retrogrades to mid-Capricorn before stationing two days after the next Full Moon.

If history repeats, then we should expect a downturn during the first full week of trading in January and for this decline to last until at least 22^nd – and possibly, if there is an exact repeat, through to mid-February.

Over these few weeks Mercury and Pluto appear in alignment on three occasions. I can’t help but wonder if ‘bad’ news concerning the bond markets will surface. It is quite possible too that we will learn that governments have borrowed more than they said that they would. Though the square between Uranus and Pluto is now a separating angle, their respective positions in the zodiac suggests the potential for a disorderly sell-off in government bonds over the next two years.

Not that the picture for 2016 is all bad. Rougher times are more likely in 2017, but, for much of 2016, many sectors should see growth.

In 2015, ‘alternative’ companies such as Uber and Airbnb have thrived and Alphabet (Google) and Facebook share prices surged. Strong aspects between Jupiter and Uranus in both March and June 2016 suggest this trend will continue. As has been the case in 2015, it may be that smaller companies do well in 2016 but that larger, long-established global businesses struggled. Whilst Jupiter continues its transit of Virgo, this situation is likely to continue – especially since Jupiter and the lunar node align in late January. These companies could buck the prevailing trend.

The US dollar rose relative to many currencies in 2015 – another situation that might well continue for some months. Yet the fight-back by other currencies (notably the Euro, sterling and the Canadian dollar) should begin early in the New Year. By September these currencies should be doing rather than better than in recent months.

In keeping with the planetary pictures in 2015, there were many political shake-ups across the world. The seemingly never-ending refugee crisis could continue in 2016 with as many people driven from their homes by changes in weather patterns as those seeking sanctuary from war. The alignment of Jupiter with the Node at the end of January should coincide with International agreement as to how best to aid those who require it.

 The planetary picture this summer is of very different hue however. Border control agencies could have increased power by then. There may also be significant travel restrictions placed on many people. Security at airports is unlikely to be lessened and, though the price of fuel may fall, the cost of increased security will likely result in travel taxes increasing.

Perhaps I should have thought of all this before making my plans for 2016!

I will be speaking for the SFAA in Ft Lauderdale, Florida on the evening of Friday February 5^th and offering a one day workshop on Saturday 6^th February. Information will go out on the SFAA website shortly – though do drop me a note for more information.

In 2016, I will also be speaking at the Astrological Lodge in London in February, for the London School of Astrology in June, returning to Toronto mid-July, giving the Carter Memorial lecture at the AA conference in September and taking part in ISAR’s event in Costa Mesa in October – not to mention some short, family-related trips!

It is clearly urgent for me to complete my book before my travels start. I am now within just a few thousand words of the end and am hopeful that Mercury’s position will aid me through to a neat finish for the end of 2015.

For now then, all that remains is for me to wish you and yours a very Happy Christmas and to hope that 2016 brings you peace, good health and prosperity.

With every good wish

Yours from the Stars

Christeen

DECEMBER SOLSTICE WEBINAR RECORDING is available. This webinar gives an overview of the coming months with particular attention to the period January through March 2016.

Payment can be made through Paypal. Cost is GBP36. Please email and I will arrange for the file to be sent to you.