To illustrate this point, consider that Microsoft, started in 1975, reached a peak equity market valuation of over $500 billion in 2000, yet is currently worth just over $200 billion (September 2010).
Madrid is a remarkable capital city with numerous interesting attractions that reveal an important history. The must sees of the city include Old Madrid, the Museo del Prado, the Palacio Real (Royal Palace), its gardens, Retiro Park, and the city's many fine and famous plazas.
Expect everything except snow. October is a very good time to visit Madrid because the heat of summer is gone, and so are the crowds. Just bring a small foldable umbrella in case of showers. Most of the time the weather is good in that month.