Explain by Example: Machine Learning

I've been wanting to learn about investments, the stock market, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for a while now so I thought, why not combine them all together? So, today I decided to try and create my own machine learning model using Azure Machine Learning services, some free ASX historical data as my data sets and output a model that helps determine whether I should Buy, Hold, or Sell a stock listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. Since this is for experimental and learning purposes, I have to note that whatever model I am about to create and deploy should not be taken seriously (as a financial advisor, financial guidance, etc). But before I dive in any further, let's take a step back and discuss the basics… Machine Learning is one component of Artificial Intelligence (or AI). Artificial intelligence is essentially trying to use machines to imitate human-like behavior and intelligence. So then you may ask, "Well, is my calculator an AI system because it can calculate answers to equations much faster than I can."