The first time I was able to manage my own 401(k) plan I thought I had it made. I would out-invest everyone. I would make a million dollars and retire in style. I had a plan. I had a rough idea of how the stock market worked. I was ready to go.

Some financial analysts are expressing concern that the current stock market is following some misleading indicators. They are pointing to a growing trend in stock buybacks by companies. When a company buys back its own stock investors can take some of their money out of the market. If they have been holding the stock for any length of time they should realize a profit.