To begin on a positive note, and with thanks to those who encouraged this production: I have recorded a 2020 astro-financial forecast. It is available through the website www.financialuniverse.co.uk.

 

But oh dear, can this really be a 'happy time'? President Trump's decision to take action against Iranian Major General Qasem Oleimani and convoy on January 3rd coincided exactly with Mars opposing Uranus heliocentrically. The attack and response by the Iranian regime took place during this special time between the solar eclipse (December 26th) and the lunar eclipse (January 10th). History shows that singular events can occur during these days when the Earth's geomagnetic field is altered and humans seem drawn to doing things that are extra-ordinary.

 

At the time of writing it appears that Draconic Pluto in Libra has had effect and further aggressive action appears to have been averted with judicial use of language. Apparently there are open lines of communication suggesting the possibility of positive discourse. That said, with more information regarding the downing of aircraft and subsequent loss of life, more could yet be revealed this weekend as Uranus stations leading to further threat if action - though that threat may not give way to action in the immediate future.

 

That said, we should all fear the potential for war given that the next solar eclipse is on the World Axis at 0 Cancer and is viewable in a great arc from Zaire, through Sudan, Iran, Pakistan and India, much of China and on out into the South China Seas. Our attention may be drawn to the Middle East presently, yet it may not be long before there are concerns elsewhere. That this important eclipse is followed by Mars' unusually long stay in war-like Aries, is worrying - especially in early October.

 

I am far from the only astrologer to note the resonance between Saturn-Pluto phases and conflict involving Israel, and, indeed, much of the Middle East. A review of the chart for Saudi Arabia suggests pending upheaval. Whatever happens at this lunar eclipse, we should anticipate further developments - possibly affecting air travel - around the March equinox.

 

World financial history shows correlation between the conjunction of Saturn and Pluto with financial panic and yes, banks failing. With Uranus (the disrupter) stationing this weekend, it is entirely possible that within days we will learn of pending difficulties in this sector. A financial collapse 'feels' imminent and will likely be led by a major default. The build-up of debt by some governments and corporations is eye-wateringly high. I have had concerns about the bond markets for some years. A bubble could burst within days.

 

If you have been reading these letters for some years then you will know of my concern about severe drought in Australia through 2019 and 2020. We are presently only part way through bush fire season and already scores of acres have been devastated and millions of animals have perished. The weather patterns around the lunar extremes of declination give little room for hope that these fires will subside soon. I have particular concerns for January 16th/17th, the 23rd and 24th (New Moon) and for January 30th as well as the First Quarter Moon on February 2nd.

 

THE UK

January 31st is the revised 'Brexit Day'. The Sun will then be at 11 Aquarius - the exact degree of Saturn's square to Uranus (11 Taurus) in 2021. Fittingly, in the last few days of January,  Mars passes  the degree held by Mercury in the UK's 1801 chart: perhaps indicating the rush to this chosen 'finish line' but resulting in action that later proves expensive. Implementation of new rules and regulations will surely give rise to exorbitant legal costs for some, - though agreed, with Jupiter's move through Capricorn (the UK's sign) 2020 should prove a year of growth before the brakes are firmly - and perhaps even shockingly - applied in 2021.

As an aside, this lunar eclipse aligns with the Moon in the 1801 chart and the nodal axis of the Queen's chart. Today's news focuses on the recent action taken by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The House of Windsor though may be rocked by other developments when Jupiter reaches 19 Capricorn in late February/early March.

 

HEALTH

The relationship of Pluto with planetoid Chiron requires more research but already it can be shown that when the two are in mathematically exact angle, that this has coincided with epidemic. An aspect comes exact in February. Whilst this might manifest as a particularly vicious flu, it's perhaps as likely that a raging virus will have global attention warranting the same kind of reaction that was applied when the Sars virus first surfaced. (As I was preparing this and checking dates, there is news of a Sars-related virus appearing in China.)

 

GOLD

I have no reason to revise my forecast of gold reaching new highs in February and March.

 

INVESTING

Retailers are reporting very small or even negative growth over the Christmas 2019-2020 period. It appears that consumers are spending less and applying personal austerity measures. This trend is unlikely to reverse any time soon. The trend toward recycling and making do is set to continue. Determining areas for growth is always challenging. I still feel that high on anyone's investment list should be developing friendships and networks - and yes, partnering with those who have skills as repairers!

 

However, if you are interested in investing in young companies, do consider those aiming to come to market in late March. Though obviously much depends on the chart of the company, it may be that some of these share prices will fly very high indeed - even if only for a short time.

With my husband's health improving, it feels good to be back at work. Though unable to venture to Florida as has been the norm in the first quarter of each year, I am ever hopeful that trips across the pond will soon be restored. I miss you all but am looking forward to seeing some of you at the ISAR conference in Denver in September.

 

For now, and with a reminder that the 200 forecast is available via www.financialuniverse.co.uk

 

With all good wishes

 

Yours from the Stars