I'm not convinced it is that new either. I'm sure that Goodwife Tett would acknowledge at least a few of the professional economic prognosticators have succumbed to the temptation of keeping one eye on their own bags while writing widely-read missives about the next year's markets.

While there may be a wide gulf between amateurs and professionals in terms of skill, my wager is that they are remarkably similar when it comes to using their platform in service of their portfolio.

So what's new? Just that it's easier for people who don't have a column in the Times or a seat in Congress to try to play at the same game.

Also, I need to know if you have ever participated in Jólabókaflóð?