Author-argues-everything-is-fake

What happened: Matt Van Swol and Charles Hugh Smith, in separate articles, argue that society is increasingly detached from reality. Van Swol contends that college degrees and jobs are "fake," while Smith posits that the real world no longer matters, with everything becoming a performance. Smith further warns that a system relying on synthetic signals for information is doomed to fail.

Market impact: This narrative could impact sectors like education technology (EdTech) and human resources (HR) software. As trust in traditional education and employment models erodes, demand for alternative learning and hiring platforms may increase. Companies like Coursera, LinkedIn, and Indeed may see shifts in user behavior and valuation as a result.

What to watch next: Investors should monitor upcoming EdTech and HR software earnings reports (e.g., Coursera's Q2 2023 earnings on August 31) for signs of changing user sentiment. Additionally, watch for any regulatory responses or policy changes addressing the validity of online degrees and certifications, such as those proposed by the U.S. Department of Education.