Lessons for Investors from John Calamos: Reflections from a Half-Century in the Markets

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Lessons for Investors from John Calamos: Reflections from a Half-Century in the Markets
John Calamos
John Calamos offers investors five important lessons. Credit: Calamos Investments

Commentary by John P. Calamos, Sr., Chairman and Global Chief Investment Officer of Calamos Investments, the firm he founded in 1977.

For more than 50 years, John P. Calamos, Sr. has been helping investors achieve their long-term asset allocation goals. He began investing in the difficult environment of the 1970s, a decade of high inflation and interest rates when both stocks and bonds were under pressure. Since then, he has earned a global reputation for providing investors with pioneering approaches for enhancing returns and managing risk, including through the use of alternative investment strategies. Below, he shares some lessons for investors.

With all the data and headlines and twists and turns in the markets, it’s understandable that many people have questions about how to invest successfully for the long term or are worried about how their portfolio is positioned. The good news is that although the challenges and opportunities in the markets are always changing and evolving, there are some basic investment principles that I believe hold true year in and year out. I believe sticking to these principles can best position investors for success.

John P. Calamos Sr.’s lessons for investors:

  1. Don’t try to time the market.
  2. Benchmark your portfolio to your personal goals and risk tolerance.
  3. Remember that even good markets have bad days.
  4. Diversify your portfolio.
  5. Understand the power of alternative strategies to manage risk and enhance returns.

1. Don’t try to time the market—stay focused on the long-term

Like most things in life, discipline is key. Trying to predict the short-term ups and downs in the market is a dangerous strategy. As Peter Lynch famously remarked, “Far more money has been lost by investors preparing for corrections, or trying to anticipate corrections, than has been lost in corrections themselves.”

Far too often, I’ve seen people give into emotion—greed and fear being especially common ones. This can result in selling into down markets but missing the up markets. Because the tides in the markets can shift quickly, missing the rallies may have a significant impact on performance.

Timing the Market Could Be Costly
20 Years ending March 31, 2024, S&P 500 Index

S&P 500 Index
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Credit: Morningstar / Calamos.com

A better approach is to establish an asset allocation portfolio with the return and risk characteristics that make sense for your personal situation. When you are comfortable with what’s happening in your portfolio, it can be easier to resist the temptation to chase performance or sell into weakness.

2. Benchmark your portfolio to your personal goals and risk tolerance

Broad-based performance yardsticks, such as the S&P 500 Index, the MSCI World Index, or the Nasdaq Index can provide useful information about how asset classes have generally performed, but it’s important to put them in perspective.

Focusing too much on how a specific index performed—especially over the short term—may mean that you lose sight of your own long-term risk tolerance. When stocks are moving rapidly upward, you may wish you were “all in.” It’s easy to forget the downside that more risky investments have. As prices go up, risks will likely go up as well. An all-stock index may demonstrate more volatility than you can stomach over time.

Measure the success of an asset allocation strategy based on your unique personal circumstance. Are you making progress toward your goals? Are you comfortable with the amount of fluctuation in your portfolio?

Remember that even good markets have bad days

Volatility is always part of the investment landscape—in good markets as well as bad. For this reason, it’s important to not get caught up in short-term market moves. The chart below shows the bull market in stocks that ran from March 2009 to February 2022. During that period, the S&P 500 Index gained nearly 400% cumulatively, but there were 19 market corrections (downturns of 5% or more) along the way. The key takeaway is that corrections are a normal part of investing, and the market often stops to take a breather—especially after a strong rally.

The stock market experiences downturns even when it is moving up
S&P 500 Index, March 2009 to February 2022

S&P 500 Index
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The index gained 395.5% cumulatively, for a 15.74% average annualized gain. Source: Bloomberg and Morningstar

4. Diversify your portfolio

Different types of investments tend to perform differently depending on interest rates, inflation, or the economic environment. The performance of investments can also be influenced by fiscal policy, political uncertainty, and the geopolitical landscape. For example, regulations might create headwinds for a specific industry or security type, or geopolitics could create disruptions in certain segments of the global economy. Some countries might be making decisions that are more conducive to business growth and the performance of stocks in their markets.

Having a blend of assets can help smooth out the performance of your portfolio because stronger performance in one area of your portfolio can offset weaker performance elsewhere. Keep in mind that increased return potential typically comes with increased risk. Be sure to consider strategies that are managed according to the risk tolerances that make sense for you. Not all stock funds are the same, for example. To support a range of investor needs, the Calamos stock funds include both lower volatility and growthier approaches, as well as choices with varying areas of focus, such as large versus small companies and US versus international companies.

5. Understand the power of alternative strategies to manage risk and enhance returns

As your portfolio grows, you can increase your diversification to include more specialized types of investments, including alternative strategies that provide opportunities beyond traditional stock and bond funds. Alternative strategies have always been an area of focus for me—in fact, Calamos Investments’ history in alternative approaches traces back to the very founding of the firm in the 1970s—well before the term “alternative” entered investors’ vocabularies. Back then, stock markets were extremely volatile, and interest rates were soaring. In this complex environment, I used convertible securities—which were an alternative asset class at the time—to help clients navigating the turbulent crosscurrents.

Fast forward from those pioneering days, and I’m very pleased to see that more investors are recognizing the potential benefits of including alternatives in asset allocation as a complement to traditional stock and fixed income investments. Of course, not all alternatives are the same—so you need to do your homework as you would with any other approach.

The array of choices that investors have today can be overwhelming. My advice is to take some time to do research before choosing a fund. It is also important to look at the years of experience of the portfolio managers and the firm.

Active and Passive Strategies

Also, it’s important to understand the difference between “passive” funds, such as index funds, and “actively managed” strategies, like the ones Calamos offers. Active managers have the flexibility to adjust their portfolios to respond to new information—about market conditions, company-specific news, and risks—in ways that passive choices don’t. Active managers also can decide to not own certain companies where risks appear to be higher. In this current environment—and over the long term—I believe that investors deserve this sort of flexibility from their funds.

*Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends that are based on current market conditions constitute subjective judgment and are subject to change without notice. The views and strategies described may not be appropriate for all investors. References to specific securities, asset classes and financial markets are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as, recommendations.

Cleopatra, Caesar, and a Temple in Egypt

Arunansh B. Goswami
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Cleopatra, Caesar, and a Temple in Egypt
Temple of Hathor
Depiction of Cleopatra VII and her son Caesarion on the wall of the Temple of Hathor in Dendera. Photo Credits: Mr. D. B. Goswami.

The life and legacy of the daughter of Ptolemy XII Auletes, Cleopatra, has fascinated not only Europeans but also Arabs and Africans alike. Her name over the years has become synonymous with beauty, and she is known as the last ancient Greek pharaoh of Egypt.

Several artists have attempted to portray her in their art, and several authors have written books on her. Michelangelo presented his beautiful drawing of Cleopatra to his friend and admirer the Roman nobleman Tommaso de’ Cavalieri in 1532. Moreover, William Shakespeare wrote a five-part play, “Antony and Cleopatra.” It was the last of his tragedies and was most likely written and initially performed in 1606.

Dendera Temple of Hathor
Wall of Dendera Temple of Hathor. Photo Credits: Mr. D. B. Goswami.

Cleopatra and the Romans

The influential Roman general and statesman Julius Caesar was Cleopatra’s lover, and she later married Mark Anthony. When the Romans under Octavian invaded Egypt, both Anthony and Cleopatra committed suicide.

During her lifetime, she contributed to the building of a temple in Egypt. That temple, the ruins of which stand to this day, continues to have some of the most vibrant colors on it’s ceiling, walls, and pillars.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), construction of this temple was completed by Emperor Tiberius 185 years after work on it began under the Hellenic Ptolemies. The hypostyle hall of this temple was decorated in 34 AD by Tiberius himself with twenty-four cow-headed or Hathoric columns.

In reference to the Hellenic Ptolemaic dynasty, of which Cleopatra was a part, UNESCO states that “the Ptolemies introduced Greek culture into Egypt whilst preserving Egyptian culture. They resided in Alexandria, a Hellenistic city par excellence.”

temple in Dendera
Depiction of the head of Goddess Hathor in her temple in Dendera. Photo Credits: Mr. Arunansh B. Goswami.

Dendera

In the Iliad, the Greek poet Homer describes Luxor as the “city of a hundred gates.” Not far from the city of Luxor, which was the capital of Egypt during the Middle and New Kingdoms and is alternatively known as Thebes or Diospolis Magna, one can find the most important center for the worship of the goddess Hathor.

The divinity with the cow horns and the lady of the sky, associated with music, joy, dance, and motherhood, is memorialized in the Temple of Hathor in Dendera. This temple was built in Greco-Roman times between 30 BC and 14 AD. According to UNESCO, Hathor was the “equivalent of the Greek Aphrodite [and] a foremost divinity in the area known to the Egyptians as Iunet Tantere, and to the Greeks and Romans as Tenyri.”  This was the capital of the 6th nome of Upper Egypt during the Ptolemies era.

temple detail

Visitors can easily get to this temple within about an hour, and they are able to access the roof of the temple. This temple of the goddess Hathor in Dendera was largely built by Ptolemy XII and Cleopatra VII (Netjeret-merites) and added to by Trajan. It is a superb example of Greco-Egyptian temple architecture.

Importance of Hathor temple

the temple of Hathor
Author of this article standing in the temple of Hathor in Dendera. Photo Credits: Mr. D. B. Goswami.

In her thesis on “The Theology of Hathor of Dendera: Aural and Visual Scribal Techniques in the Per-Wer Sanctuary,” scholar Barbara Ann Richter of the University of California, Berkeley writes:

“The Ptolemaic temples are some of the best-preserved examples of Egyptian religious architecture; they represent the culmination of a long line of development, reflected in an increase in the number and polyvalency of hieroglyphic signs and iconographic elements in the wall reliefs. This development widened the scribal playing field for creating expressions that function on multiple aural, visual, and thematic levels.” 

Cleopatra and Caesarion 

The temple of Hathor
Author of this article inside the temple of Hathor in Dandera, this temple was largely built by Ptolemy XII and Cleopatra VII (Netjeret-merites). Photo Credits: Mr. D. B. Goswami.

Visitors to the Hathor temple can see a colossal carving of Cleopatra VII Philopator (51-30 BC) and her son Ptolemy XV Caesarion (44-30 BC) before the gods. This is located on the south exterior wall of the temple.

As explained by the Royal Collection Trust of the United Kingdom, “Caesarion was allegedly the child Cleopatra had with Julius Caesar (100-44 BC).” Judith Therman writes in her article “The Cleopatriad” for The New Yorker that “after the Queen (Cleopatra) gave birth to Caesarion she began to style herself as a New Isis….Sailors carved Isis on their prows and spread her cult to Greece, Rome, Persia, North Africa, Asia Minor, and Iberia; it even reached Germany and Britain before dying out about four hundred years into the Christian era.”

Conclusion

Graeco-Roman temples of Egypt are quite well preserved and are major sources for the study of around three centuries of Hellenic Ptolemaic rule in Egypt and almost six centuries of Roman rule in the country.

Although civilizations have come and gone, Egypt retains its rich diversity. From its people to its food, traveling in this country is a phenomenal learning experience.

The temples in Dendera, Esna, Edfu, and Komb Ombo are four Pharaonic temples that belong to the Ptolemaic period. Visitors can visit them when traveling from Aswan to Alexandria.

It’s fascinating how Hellenes feature prominently not only in European and Western civilization history but also in ancient Egypt and Africa, with these temples serving as tangible expressions of this connection.

Trump Reveals Plans for Second Term as US President

Matthew Norman
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Trump Reveals Plans for Second Term as US President
Donald Trump lays out his vision for a second term as US president.
Donald Trump lays out his vision for a second term as US President. Credit: Michael Vadon. CC BY 2.0/flickr

US presidential candidate Donald Trump has laid out his vision for a second term in thorough detail in his most in-depth and revealing interview to date on his plans for a return to the White House.

The businessman and former President described how he would deploy troops to combat illegal immigration and civil unrest within the US, claiming there is a threat from the enemy coming “from within.”

Trump also expressed his thoughts on abortion bans, potentially prosecuting Joe Biden, and whether he thinks another January 6th could occur if he does not secure a White House return. Speaking to Time, Trump, 77, said he did not consider his plans to be “bold actions” but “common sense.”

The Trump line on the “invasion” of illegal immigrants in US

Trump said the US faced an unprecedented threat from people crossing its borders illegally which he blamed for “a new category of crime.”

“It’s called migrant crime,” he said. While he did not rule out building new migrant detention camps, he said he was focused on launching mass deportations.

To do this, he claimed he would focus on local level enforcement by deploying police and US National Guard troops. “If necessary, I’d have to go a step further,” he said, and use the military. “If I thought things were getting out of control, I would have no problem using the military.”

When challenged over the fact that a US statute prevents the military from being used against civilians on home soil, Trump replied: “These aren’t civilians. These are people that aren’t legally in our country. This is an invasion.”

“I think the enemy from within, in many cases, is much more dangerous for our country than the outside enemies of China, Russia, and various others,” he added.

Abortion bans

The all-encompassing abortion restrictions in place since the US Supreme Court revoked the Constitutional right to an abortion have brought reproductive rights to the forefront and made it a huge topic in the 2024 elections.

Trump has previously claimed credit for the Supreme Court’s decision after appointing three justices to its bench but has also said the question of where to draw the line on abortion bans should be left to the states.

Asked if states should monitor women’s pregnancies to see if they have had abortions in defiance of a ban, Trump replied “I think they might do that.” He went on to say that it was up to the states whether to prosecute women for getting termination and also claimed he would make a big statement in the coming days on whether to allow widely used abortion pills.

Prosecuting opponents

The former President, who has accused current President Joe Biden of “weaponizing” the Department of Justice, also told Time that he had not ruled out firing federal prosecutors who buck his directives to prosecute someone.

“It would depend on the situation,” he said. Asked whether he would go after Biden and his family, Trump said it “depends” on how the Supreme Court rules on the question of presidential immunity.

“If [the court has] ruled that they don’t have immunity, Biden, probably nothing to do with me, he would be prosecuted for 20 different acts,” he said.

Another January 6th?

When asked about the potential for violence and rioting if he loses the election in November, Trump replied: “It always depends on the fairness of the election.” A Trump-supporting mob stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 in an effort to halt Congress’ certification of Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.

Asked about the prospect of a repeat of the violent scenes, Trump said: “I think we’re going to have a big victory and I think there will be no violence.”

Lemnos: Home to Greece’s Unique Desert

Ioanna Zikakou
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Lemnos: Home to Greece’s Unique Desert
Lemnos desert
The Greek island of Lemnos is the site of one of Europe’s few deserts. Credit: Aggeliki Tsiona / Unsplash

The European continent is not known for its deserts. Stereotypically, one tends to think of the Sahara or the Arabian desert. However, Greece has a desert of its own located on the beautiful island of Lemnos.

Lemnos, the eighth-largest Greek island, is a magical place. Located in the northern Aegean, wedged between mainland Greece and Turkey, Lemnos is full of unique archaeological sites, picturesque beaches, and some of the most delicious local delicacies anywhere in Greece.

Apart from its sun-soaked beaches and world-famous wine, the Greek island of Lemnos is also known as the home of what is possibly the only desert in Europe.

Geography of the island

The rugged western region of the island reaches heights of 1,410 feet (430 meters) at Múrtzeflos Cape. This area contrasts with the more gently sloping and fertile eastern portions, which are divided from the west by two deep inlets: Pourniá to the north and Moúdros (also known as Moúdhrou) to the south. Covering an area of 184 square miles (476 square kilometers), the island’s western region lacks trees, whereas the valleys and plains in the east are arable and productive.

The principal town and port of Lemnos is Myrina, situated on the island’s western coast. Mírina serves as the seat of the metropolitan bishop of Lemnos and is connected to the nearby island of Agios Efstratios to the south.

The island’s second-largest settlement is Moúdros, located on the bay that shares its name. Moúdros Bay is renowned as one of the finest natural harbors in the Aegean region.

The sand dunes on Lemnos

On the north side of Lemnos, in an area called Gomati, visitors have the chance to witness a unique and unexpected sight — a small, sandy desert.

This area, which measures 7 hectares, or a little over 17 acres, is located far from the island’s many beaches and resembles a scene found in the Middle East or North Africa, not a Greek island.

Due to Lemnos’ particularly windy climate, the many sand dunes located in the desert of Gomati constantly change shape, depending on the direction of the wind, just like the Sahara Desert.

The sand dunes, also known as “Pachies Ammoudies,” are one of the most unique attractions on the island Lemnos, created by natural erosion caused by the prevailing winds blowing from across the sea.

Lemnos’ desert home to unique flowers and herbs

The ever-changing terrain and landscape of the sand dunes, accompanied by the deep-blue colors of the Aegean Sea make for an unforgettable sight.

Just as striking, the area’s flora mostly consists of beautiful white lilies, also known as pancratium maritimum, while sand-friendly vegetation such as osier, thyme, oleander, and wild olive trees encircle the sand dunes.

It is worth noting that the landscape’s uniqueness has led many film and commercial directors to shoot scenes in the small Greek desert.

The Byzantines: Greeks, Romans, or Both?

Matthew Norman
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The Byzantines: Greeks, Romans, or Both?
Byzantines, were they Roman or Greek, or both.
Byzantines, were they Roman, Greek, or both. Credit: Mariko 27. CC BY 2.0/flickr

Byzantine society was extremely diverse, encompassing Christian Greeks, Slavs, Armenians, Georgians, Coptics, and the Jewish populations, among others, but are the Byzantines considered Roman, Greek, or both?

During the Byzantine Golden Age under Emperor Justinian, the Byzantine Empire stretched around the Mediterranean Sea into Italy, Greece, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East.

Founded by Roman Emperor Constantine in 330 AD, the Roman Empire later split into eastern and western halves. Constantine then moved the capital of the empire to the ancient Greek city of Byzantium, and it was renamed Constantinople in his honor.

The Greek-Roman identity of Byzantine

The Byzantine Greeks were the Greek-speaking Eastern Romans, the main inhabitants of the lands of the Byzantine Empire, of Constantinople, and Asia Minor (modern Turkey), the Greek islands, Cyprus, and parts of the Southern Balkans. They also made up large minorities in the coastal urban centers of the Levant and Northern Egypt.

Throughout their history, the Byzantine Greeks identified as Romans, but they are typically referred to as Byzantine Greeks in modern historiography. Latin speakers of the era identified them simply as Greeks or called them “Romaei.”

The Greek language was already widely spoken in the eastern parts of the Roman Empire when Constantine moved its capital to Constantinople. Latin, however, was the official language of the imperial administration. Nonetheless, from the reign of Emperor Heraclius (610-641 AD), Greek was the predominant language among the populace and also came to replace Latin in administration.

To begin with, the Byzantine Empire had a multi-ethnic character, but, following the loss of the non-Greek speaking provinces as a result of the 7th century Muslim conquests, it came to be dominated by the Byzantine Greeks. They inhabited the heartland of the later empire of modern Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, and Sicily, as well as parts of Southern Bulgaria, Crimea, and Albania. Over time, the relationship between them and the West, especially with Latin Europe, deteriorated.

Relations were further damaged by the schism between the Catholic West and Orthodox East. This resulted in the Byzantine Greeks being labeled as heretics in the West. In the later centuries of the Byzantine Empire and especially after the imperial coronation of the King of the Franks, Charlemagne (768-814 AD), in Rome in 800 AD, the Byzantines were not thought of by Western Europeans as heirs of the Roman Empire but rather as part of an Eastern Greek kingdom.

The question of Roman-ness

The inhabitants of the empire, generally termed Byzantines, thought of themselves as Romans. Similarly, their Islamic neighbors called their empire the “land of the Romans,” but the people’s of medieval Western Europe preferred to call them Greeks, a term at the time holding connotations of effeminacy and deception.

The word “Byzantine,” which came from Byzantion (Latinized as Byzantium), the name of the Greek settlement Constantinople was established on, was only used to describe the inhabitants of that city. It never referred to the empire, which they called Romania, or “Romanland.”

Walls of Constantinople.
Walls of Constantinople. Credit :archer10. CC BY 2.0/flickr

Following the fall of the empire, early modern scholars referred to it by several names, including the “Empire of Constantinople,” the “Empire of the Greeks,” the “Eastern Empire,” the “Late Empire,” the “Low Empire,” and the “Roman Empire.”

The growing use of “Byzantine” and “Byzantine Empire” likely began with the 15th-century historian Laonikos Chalkokondyles, whose works were widely disseminated. “Byzantine” was used alongside terms like “Empire of the Greeks” until the 19th century. It has now become the primary term, used to refer to all aspects of the empire. Some historians believe that, as an originally prejudicial and inaccurate term, its use should be stopped.

A combination of Greek and Roman cultures in Byzantine

The social order of the Roman Empire and the sense of belonging to the Roman homeland in the Byzantine world were underpinned by an appreciation and adoption of Greek culture. The Byzantines believed ancient Greek literature belonged to them as well, and the ideological differences between Byzantine Romanism and Hellenism did not prevent the preservation of ancient Greek heritage. Ancient Greek texts were not destroyed but copied and redistributed.

Greek literature continued to be the most important part of the Byzantine school curriculum, and the educated man had to read and know Homer and Euripides. Different cultures blended together to form a new culture.

Today, that culture is known as Greco-Roman. For example, the Byzantines enjoyed public baths, swimming pools, and chariot racing, much as the ancient Romans did. However, most Byzantines spoke Greek, so Greek was the language of everyday use. Because of that, even emperors learned Greek.

Over time, the empire became less Roman and more Greek. That rich blending of cultures led the Byzantines to develop one of the most advanced civilizations in the world between 500 and 1200 CE.

Divisions in the Church

The divisions that did exist in the empire were not just based on geography. In addition to having separate capitals, Rome in the West and Constantinople in the East, there was one other significant difference between the Eastern and Western halves of the Roman Empire. That difference occurred within the Christian Church.

Church of Saint Nicholas at Myra, an ancient Byzantine church and one of the oldest surviving churches in existence.
Church of Saint Nicholas at Myra, an ancient Byzantine church and one of the oldest surviving churches in existence. Credit: Rab. CC BY 2.0/flickr

Christianity became the official religion of Rome in 380 AD, but the practice and expression of the faith developed differently in the western and eastern parts of the empire. In the eastern half, the church leader was called the patriarch and was appointed by the emperor. Thus, it was really the emperor who was the head of the Church. In the western half, Christians believed the pope was the head of the Church.

In the Byzantine Empire, the emperor had power over Church and government, whereas in the West—where after the fall of Rome in 476 AD there was no longer an emperor—the pope eventually claimed authority over all the governments and churches in Europe.

These differences went on for hundreds of years and were so serious that, in 1054 AD, the respective church leaders excommunicated each other. This resulted in a schism between the two churches that exists to this day.

Mysterious Roman Dodecahedron Defies Explanation

Matthew Norman
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Mysterious Roman Dodecahedron Defies Explanation
Roman dodecahedron is baffling experts.
Roman dodecahedron is baffling experts. Credit: Paul Garland. CC BY 2.0/flickr

A mysterious, 12-sided Roman dodecahedron discovered in an amateur dig in Norton Disney, near Lincoln last year, has been baffling experts as it goes on display in Britain for the first time.

The Roman dodecahedron is set to go on display at Lincoln Museum as part of the city’s Festival of History, with Richard Parker, secretary of the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group, saying it was a “privilege to have handled” the dodecahedron, but was still not sure what it was, as reported by the Independent.

“Despite all the research that has gone into our dodecahedron, and others like it, we are no closer to finding out exactly what it is and what it might have been used for,” Parker said.
“The imagination races when thinking about what the Romans may have used it for. Magic, rituals or religion – we perhaps may never know,” he added.

The object is one of just 33 dodecahedra discovered in the UK and may date back as far as the 1st century. Some scholars think they were possibly linked to Roman rituals or religion.

The artifact is also one of the largest ever found in Britain, measuring roughly 3in (8cm) tall and weighing half a pound (245g). Andrea Martin, exhibitions and interpretations manager at the museum, said having the dodecahedron on show was “a real coup” for local history fans and visitors to the city, as per the Independent.

Its excavation was especially important because it was found where it was placed 1,700 years ago, meaning the site could hold clues as to its purpose. Just three other examples of dodecahedra have been found during archaeological excavations.

What was a Roman Dodecahedron used for?

There are no known descriptions or drawings of dodecahedra in Roman literature, which makes their purpose unclear. The Norton Disney group said the objects were not of a standard size so were not measuring devices, and they did not show signs of wear so they were not used as tools, as per the Guardian.

The group added that “a huge amount of time, energy and skill was taken to create our dodecahedron, so it was not used for mundane purposes”. The dodecahedron, made of copper alloy, is the only example found in the Midlands. It is in very good condition, with no damage, and completed to a high standard.

The amateur archaeologists who unearthed the object reportedly plan to return to the site this summer to try and uncover more clues as to why it was there. The group was only able to partly excavate the trench where it was found in 2023, along with some fourth-century Roman pottery, due to time and financial constraints, with the dodecahedron found on the penultimate day of the dig.

They have secured permission to go back in 2024 and continue the excavation, relying entirely on donations to fund their work.

Cyprus Marks 20 Years Since EU Accession

Matthew Norman
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Cyprus Marks 20 Years Since EU Accession
EU marks 20 years since the accession of Cyprus and several other countries.
EU marks 20 years since the accession of Cyprus and several other countries. Credit: European Parliament from EU. CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons/European Parliament

On Wednesday, Cyprus and several other countries officially marked their membership of the European Union (EU) for 20 years, with the EU marking the 20th anniversary of the enlargement and claiming it will always help to solve the Cyprus problem.

Today, the EU marks the 20th anniversary of the 2004 enlargement. On May 1st, 20 years ago, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia joined the EU.

EU Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen said today, in a statement celebrating the anniversary of Cyprus’ EU accession, that “Europe will always stand by your side to solve the Cyprus problem.”

In a post by the European Commission Representation in Cyprus on the social media platform X, Von der Leyen addressed the people of Cyprus, saying “20 years ago today, our family was united in a common home. Cyprus has always been at the heart of European history and culture and 20 years ago you chose to be at the heart of the European Union.”
“Since then, you have seen your country change for the better,” she said, adding that the union has likewise changed for the better thanks to Cyprus’ participation.

Cyprus since joining the EU

The Commission President also made a comment about Cyprus’ journey in the EU, saying: “Over the last 20 years you have become a European hub for trade, economy, energy, shipping and humanitarian links between Europe, Africa, and Asia.” It was highlighted that, last month, Cyprus pioneered the opening of a maritime humanitarian corridor to Gaza with the support of the European Union.

“You are making the most of your unique geography as a bridge between continents. You are making Europe stronger. And Europe has made you stronger, too,” said von der Leyen, pointing out that over these twenty years, Cyprus has benefited from the creation of the national health scheme, the modernization of public services, stronger environmental protection, and cleaner energy.

In her speech before Parliament last week, von der Leyen described the 2004 enlargement of the EU as “the birth of a new era.”

In the 20 years since, almost 450 million Europeans have enjoyed freedom of movement across a large union. It is claimed that citizens of the EU have stronger rights and freedoms and that the economies of the then-new member states have boomed, with agricultural production tripling and unemployment rates being cut in half.

The countries that were existing members at the time of the 2004 enlargement have also reportedly experienced growth and prosperity. Lastly, the enlargement has apparently provided more EU citizens and businesses with opportunities to study and work abroad, invest, and export in a wider union.

10 Reasons to Visit Milos Island in Greece, the Home of Venus of Milo

Tasos Kokkinidis
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10 Reasons to Visit Milos Island in Greece, the Home of Venus of Milo
Milos Louis Vuitton campaign
Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece. Credit: dronepicr – CC BY 2.0

Milos Island in Greece is a stunning destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxed island vibes.

It is no wonder that recently the Cycladic island was an inspiration for the iconic French fashion houses of Dior and Louis Vuitton. In 2021 they both chose Milos to launch their brand campaigns.

Milos was voted the best island in the world for 2021 according to a survey carried out among the millions of Travel+Leisure magazine readers.

“Greece’s second most notable volcanic island after glitzy Santorini, Milos is half as busy and twice as beautiful. Its horseshoe of mineral-rich multicoloured rocks is peppered with swimming lagoons, quarry ruins and whitewashed fishing villages,” a travel critic wrote in the Guardian recently.

Here are ten reasons why you should visit Milos Island:

Breathtaking Beaches

Milos boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in Greece. From the iconic Sarakiniko to the secluded Tsigrado and the colorful rock formations of Kleftiko, each beach on the island has its own charm and beauty.

Sarakiniko is perhaps the most famous beach in Milos and is known for its unique lunar landscape. The beach is characterized by its white volcanic rock formations and crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a surreal and picturesque setting.

Firiplaka, located on the southern coast of the island, is a beautiful sandy beach with striking rock formations and azure waters. It offers a relaxing atmosphere and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Tsigrado is a secluded beach accessible by descending a narrow and steep path between cliffs. It features soft golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a natural tunnel that adds to its charm. It’s a bit more adventurous to reach but definitely worth the effort.

Paleochori is a popular beach known for its unique geological features and hot springs. The beach has both sandy and pebbly sections, and the warm waters create a natural spa experience. It offers a range of amenities, including beach bars, tavernas, and water sports facilities, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more lively beach experience.

Plathiena is a beautiful sandy beach located on the northeastern coast of Milos. It offers crystal-clear waters, a tranquil atmosphere, and a scenic surrounding landscape.

Although not technically a beach, Kleftiko is a must-visit location in Milos. It is a cluster of stunning rock formations that emerge from the sea, creating small coves and caves. You can take a boat tour to explore the area, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and marvel at the unique beauty of Kleftiko.

Agios Ioannis is a beach located on the northwestern coast of the island. It is known for its golden sand, turquoise waters, and its distinctive backdrop, featuring the striking church of Agios Ioannis Siderianos built into the cliffs.

Firopotamos is a charming beach with a small fishing village atmosphere. It features colorful fishing boats, traditional houses, and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

Volcanic landscapes and archaeological sites on Milos Island

Volcanic Landscapes

Milos is a volcanic island, which has resulted in an extraordinary landscape. Explore the impressive volcanic craters, ancient lava formations, and mineral-rich soil that give the island its unique character.

Archaeological Sites

Milos is steeped in history and boasts several archaeological sites. Visit the ancient city of Klima, the Roman Theatre in Tripiti, or the Catacombs of Milos, where you can explore ancient burial chambers.

The Statue of Aphrodite

Milos is famous for its ancient statue of Aphrodite, known as the Venus de Milo. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, it is one of the most significant pieces of ancient Greek art and can be seen at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Milos Island Greece
A faithful copy of the Aphrodite statue was unveiled near the place where it was found on Milos. Credit: Facebook/Municipality of Milos

A faithful copy of the stunning statue was unveiled recently on Milos from where it was taken by the French.

The copy is placed at the archeological site near the same place where the original was found more than 200 years ago.

Fishing Villages

Experience the traditional Greek island life by visiting the charming fishing villages of Milos. Explore the colorful houses, stroll along the picturesque harbors, and enjoy fresh seafood in tavernas by the sea.

Plaka, the capital of Milos, Adamanta one of the biggest natural harbours in the Mediterranean, Pollonia, Chivadolimni or Emporio with the small lagoon and iron mines are just a few of the island’s beautiful villages you should explore.

Sailing and Boat Tours

Milos is a perfect destination for sailing enthusiasts. Rent a boat or join a boat tour to discover the island’s hidden coves, sea caves, and remote beaches, including the famous Kleftiko.

Milos Mining Museum

Learn about the island’s rich mining history at the Milos Mining Museum. Discover the importance of minerals like obsidian and sulfur in the island’s past and the impact they had on ancient civilizations.

Milos Catacombs

Milos
Credit: Zde/Wikimedia Commons/ CC BY-SA 4.0

Explore the fascinating Catacombs of Milos, which date back to the first century AD. These underground burial chambers are the largest early Christian catacombs in Greece and offer a glimpse into the island’s early Christian history.

Cycladic Architecture

Milos is known for its beautiful Cycladic architecture, characterized by white-washed buildings, narrow streets, and blue-domed churches. Wander through charming villages like Plaka and Pollonia to admire the traditional island architecture.

Authentic Greek Cuisine

Indulge in delicious Greek cuisine while on the island. Milos is renowned for its seafood, so make sure to try the fresh catch of the day. Additionally, savor traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and local delicacies such as the cheese pie, pitarakia.

Mykonos Marks May Day With Elaborate Display of Wreaths

Tasos Kokkinidis
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Mykonos Marks May Day With Elaborate Display of Wreaths
May Day
A vibrant display of colors and a delightful mix of sweet, refreshing, and earthy aromas on Mykonos.Credit: Mykonoslive.tv

Mykonos welcomed May Day with the traditional exhibition of wreaths that was a feast for the senses, offering a vibrant display of colors and a delightful mix of sweet, refreshing, and earthy aromas.

May Day wreaths symbolize the rebirth of nature with spring, a fact that people want to bring into their homes. The wreath itself symbolizes life, growth, and good luck. It’s believed to bring prosperity and protect homes from evil spirits.

Mykonos has its distinct tradition, with the beautiful display of wreaths attracting the attention of locals and tourists alike.

Every year, the Mykonos Women’s Cultural Folklore Association ladies made with love and passion the most elaborate and colorful wreaths to welcome the most beautiful month of Spring.

The wreaths were placed on stalls and made available for sale.

The president of the Association, Anna Athymaritis spoke to Mykonos Live TV about the actions of the association and about how this year’s floral wreaths were made:

“Apart from spreading the culture and folklore of Mykonos, our association which was founded in 1979, also has a charitable activity as it donates to schools and helps our fellow human beings in need.”

Here is how you can make an impressive wreath.

May Day traditions in Greece

The May Day wreath tradition has its roots in ancient Greece and it is observed in many parts of the country apart from Mykonos.

People pick flowers and use them to create a May Day wreath that will hang on their door until it goes dry. The wreath-making process is bringing people closer to nature, especially in this day and age where their busy city lives consume many.

People gather wildflowers like daisies, poppies, and lilies to create the wreath. Traditionally, thorns, nettles, or garlic might also be included to ward off evil.

In several villages across Corfu, residents walk around holding a cypress trunk, covered with yellow daisies. The trunk, also called the Mayoxilo, is encircled in a wreath made from green branches. The young men carrying it wear white clothes and red scarves as they walk around the village streets singing songs about May.

One of the most popular Greek May Day traditions is fire jumping. Women of every age gather the night before May Day, after the sun sets, and light a fire using dry branches that they gathered over the past days.

When the fire is lit, the women dance around in a large circle singing folk songs about May and spring. The young children wet their hair and clothes and jump over the fire as a symbolic act that will keep away winter and disease.

6G Speeds Hit 100 Gbps, 500 Times Faster Than 5G Cellphones

Tasos Kokkinidis
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6G Speeds Hit 100 Gbps, 500 Times Faster Than 5G Cellphones
6G
Transfer rates are up to 500 times quicker than average 5G T-Mobile speeds. Credit: Greek Reporter

The first high-speed 6G wireless device in the world was created by a group of Japanese businesses that can carry data at up to 20 times the speed of 5G, or 100 gigabits per second (Gbps), at distances up to 300 feet (90 meters).

These data transfer rates are up to 500 times quicker than average 5G T-Mobile speeds in the United States, and they are comparable to uploading five HD movies wirelessly per second, according to Statista.

With its high speed and low latency, 6G is expected to enable a new wave of applications that rely on seamless connectivity and real-time data processing. Some potential areas include the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cities, and even more advanced virtual and augmented reality experiences.

Rolled out in 2019, 5G is the current state-of-the-art wireless communication standard and is used by almost all new smartphones, for example. Average T-Mobile speeds in the U.S. are approximately 204.9 megabits per second (Mbps), while the theoretical maximum 5G speed is at least 10 Gbps.

6G rollout expected in the early 2030s

But scientists are already working on building the sixth generation of this standard, 6G, with the infrastructure in the works ahead of rollout by the early 2030s, according to the GSM Association (GSMA) — where GSM stands for Global System for Mobile.

The main differences between 5G and 6G lie in the frequency bands of the electromagnetic spectrum in which they operate. Operating in higher bands generally means much higher speeds.

5G signals are commonly transmitted in bands under 6 GHz and extended into bands of around 40 GHz — known as the “millimeter-wave bands,” according to 6GWorld.

6G, on the other hand, is expected to use higher-frequency bands, known as “sub-THz” bands, which are between 100 GHz and 300 GHz, according to Nokia. Transmitting in this region taps into the advantage of faster speeds but has the disadvantage of greater interference with the environment, with signals more likely to become blocked — particularly indoors.

Where the jump from 4G to 5G paved the way for much greater volumes of media consumption, the jump from 5G to 6G could lead to new technologies like holographic communication and smoother virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality experiences.

Because 6G relies on much higher frequency bands, however, we would need completely new infrastructure to transmit and amplify signals, while smartphones or VR devices would require 6G antennae.

In previous tests, scientists have achieved faster 6G speeds — but over much shorter distances. A different team of scientists in Japan, for example, demonstrated world-record 6G speeds of up to 240 Gbps but only at 66 feet (20 m), publishing their findings Feb. 10 in the journal IEICE Electronics Express.

Related: China Unveils World’s Fastest Internet Transmitting 150 Movies Per Second

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