Friday, August 6, 2010

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

I love jobless recoveries.

Less Jobs.

Living in the city is hard on foreclosures

Realytrac Reports.

Gold Articles

Here and here.

Daily Reckoning Stock Picks

Stock Picks From the Vancouver Conference
By Chris Mayer

"President Obama said he would've fired Lloyd Blankfein, the head of Goldman Sachs, if he worked for the White House... Unfortunately, the White House works for Goldman Sachs." - from my presentation at the Agora Financial Investment Symposium.

I'm back from the Agora Financial Investment Symposium in Vancouver. As usual, this great event offered a diverse mix of ideas. Doom seemed to prevail often enough, with many speakers calling for a healthy drop in the stock market and challenging economic times ahead. Even so, there was plenty of enthusiasm for certain ideas. More about which, below...

One of the pleasures of being in Vancouver is getting The Globe and Mail delivered to your room every morning. It's a good paper, and with Canada's resource-based economy, it tends to carry worthy stories on what's happening in the resource sector. More than a few caught my eye, as they covered areas I've been watching of late.

For instance, there was a story about how Canadian companies are becoming increasingly active in Colombia. There has been something of a resource boom down there, as the country enjoys some stability. There are 17 listed Canadian companies with a presence in Colombia. The lure is the untapped oil reserves. There hasn't been much exploration in 50 years. Already, Colombia is the third-largest South American producer of oil after Venezuela and Brazil. Oil is its biggest export.

I have a Colombian oil company I've been researching as a possible recommendation. Either way, I'll share with you what I've learned about the opportunities unfolding in Colombia.

There was another fascinating story about how Canada ships more and more of its oil to Asia, in particular China. Currently, one ship leaves every month carrying 600,000 barrels of crude oil. That's a trickle, but Canada's two biggest pipeline companies are looking to lay pipe and ship massive amounts of oil to Vancouver, en route ultimately to China.

The appeal of Canada's oil sands has improved mightily over just the last 12 months. For one thing, the troubles in the Gulf and deep-water drilling make land sources of oil look a lot less risky. Secondly, China's appetite for crude oil continues to grow. (Last week, the IEA reported China is now the world's largest energy user, surpassing the US.) And now this: new pipelines.

The pipelines do two things. One, they lessen Canada's dependence on the US, which has been murmuring about greenhouse gas legislation. Such legislation would make it more difficult for Canada's oil sands to find buyers in the US. Secondly, the pipeline companies actually make more money selling to Asia. Enbridge says it can earn $2-3 more per barrel selling to the Chinese. At 550,000 barrels a day - the estimate for one pipeline - that's a lot of extra cash.

I'm looking over a small heavy oil player in Canada that appears to trade at a deep discount to its underlying assets.

Another story that caught my eye was about wheat. I don't know if you've noticed, but wheat prices are up a third in just the last six weeks. The main culprit is too much rain or too little rain in Russia, Europe and Western Canada. So wheat prices are flying.

It seems like just two months ago, everybody was chipper about having bumper crops in all the grains. Now weather has suddenly gotten bad and wheat is up a third. You never know anything about crop prices until they hit the bin.

Longer term, though, we know we're going to need to grow more food. There are many ways to get there - fertilizer, irrigation, new acreage, etc.

Returning to the Vancouver conference, many of the most compelling investment ideas featured investments in oil, emerging markets, agriculture and water. My friend Rick Rule, a great resource investor and speculator, put in some bullish words for potash and water. He mentioned a few different "water plays" like PICO and Limoneira (LMNR).

In my presentation, I encouraged people to invest overseas. I also talked about the growing bulge of new consumers in emerging markets. Finally, I put in some kind words for farmland and agricultural markets.

In my workshop, I talked about a few specific stocks. The general idea was to present some stocks that did not require you to have much of an opinion about the economy. Lots of people hold tightly to such opinions. I asked how many people thought we would have a double-dip recession in the next two years. Almost everyone's hand went up. No one thought we'd avoid that fate.

Then I asked how many people had no idea. A few hands went up. Honest people, I say. I don't have any idea either. It's something that's unknowable. There are too many shifting variables. A strong conviction on a double dip is like having a strong conviction about next month's weather. It's a tough call.

But you don't really have to know the answer to the double-dip question to invest well. Too often, people think that a poor economy makes for a bad investing environment. But that's not always true. It depends on prices. Right now there are some interesting bargains out there.

Anyway, four of the stocks I mentioned are existing recommendations from Capital & Crisis:

Gulfport Energy (NASDAQ:GPOR) - An oil and gas company based in Louisiana. Besides solid producing assets in the US, it owns 131,000 net acres of oil sands in Canada via an investment in Grizzly Oil Sands. Recent transactions support valuations of $3,000-14,000 per acre. In per share terms, that's $9-42 per share for Gulfport, which trades for only $13.50. It's a stock greatly skewed to the upside with lots of asset value supporting the current stock price.

Loews Corp. (NYSE:L) - A conglomerate with interests in three publicly traded companies: Diamond Offshore, Boardwalk Pipeline and CNA Financial. The value of its stake in these three alone equals the stock price. You get the reset of the company free, which includes cash, HighMount (a natural gas company) and other investments. Total net asset value is $50 per share easy. The stock is $37.

FEMSA (NYSE:FMX) - A Mexican blue chip with interests in two publicly traded companies: Coca-Cola FEMSA and Heineken. FMX owns the third business outright. It is OXXO, a chain of convenience stores. The implied valuation for OXXO is about half publicly traded comparables. Net asset value for FMX is close to $60 per share. The stock is only $46.

Foster Wheeler (NASDAQ:FWLT) - A large engineering and construction firm. FWLT is flat-out cheap, trading at an earnings multiple of only 5-6 times net of cash. The stock is more than 70% off its high. The business is picking up again, yet the market values it as if earnings are about to fall off the table.

I could've gone on to mention more. But really, I don't think you have to have a positive view of the economy to own these names, which provide ready discounts to assets and/or potential earnings.

And I would urge all investors to continue seeking out the kinds of stocks that can deliver strong returns, even if the economy simply muddles along.

Chris Mayer
for The Daily Reckoning Australia

Editor's Note: Chris is the editor of Capital and Crisis and Mayer's Special Situations, a monthly report that unearths unique and unconventional opportunities in smaller-cap stocks. In 2008, Chris authored Invest Like a Dealmaker: Secrets From a Former Banking Insider.

NIA Stock Pick

Canadian Zinc Corp. (Toronto: CZN) (OTCBB: CZICF)
Price: $0.37
www.canadianzinc.com

Our new stock suggestion is Canadian Zinc Corp. currently on the Toronto exchange at $0.37 and on the OTCBB exchange at $0.358.

When the Hunt brothers attempted to corner the silver market in 1980, driving the price of silver up to $50 per ounce, they were quietly getting ready to open their own silver mine. The mine the Hunt brothers were getting ready to open is called Prairie Creek. It was explored, developed and brought almost to completion, but never operated. After Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker raised interest rates to 20% and saved America from the inflationary crisis it was about to experience, the price of silver collapsed. The Hunt brothers were forced to file for bankruptcy and Prairie Creek was placed into receivership.

CZN now owns the rights to the Prairie Creek Silver, Lead & Zinc mine in Canada. CZN’s long-term aim is to bring the 100%-owned Prairie Creek Mine in the Mackenzie Mountains of the Northwest Territories into production at the earliest possible date. The mine, which has a fascinating 25 year history, is a silver and base metals property already in the advanced stages of development, with substantial resources of high-grade silver, zinc, and lead.

The Prairie Creek Mine is partially developed with an existing 1,000 tonne per day mill and related infrastructure. There are still fresh paint signs on the walls from the Hunt brothers in the 1980s. In fact, in one of the bathrooms, you can see where the tile people suddenly stopped working and left all the tools behind when the Hunt brothers were forced to abandon the project.

In 2006 and 2007, CZN carried out major programs at Prairie Creek including driving a new internal decline approximately 600 metres long which enabled a significant underground exploration and infill drilling program to occur. A total of $18.7 million was invested in Prairie Creek in 2006 and 2007.

A Technical Report dated October 12, 2007 indicates that the Prairie Creek Property hosts Measured and Indicated Resources of 5,840,329 tonnes grading 10.71% zinc, 9.90% lead, 161.12 grams silver per tonne and 0.326% copper. In addition, the report confirms a large Inferred Resource of 5,541,576 tonnes grading 13.53% zinc, 11.43% lead, 215 grams per tonne silver and 0.514% copper and additional exploration potential.

The Measured and Indicated Resource is now capable of supporting a mine life of at least 20 years at the planned 600 - 1,200 tonnes per day production rate. Although CZN holds permits for the exploration and development of the Prairie Creek Property, CZN does not have all the permits necessary to operate the mine. Recently, CZN applied to the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board for permits that will allow the operation of the mine.

Having a mill that is 90% complete and machinery that is still in good working condition gives CZN a tremendous advantage in getting this mine up and running. It would cost well over $100 million in today's dollars to build what they already have! The main thing holding CZN back from taking this property into production is the environmental impact board which should have a decision made by March 2011.

CZN also holds a 17% interest in Vatukoula Gold Mines plc. The Vatukoula Gold Mine located in Fiji recovered 38,402 ounces of gold during the nine months ended May 31, 2010. Vatukoula trades on the London Stock Exchange under ticker symbol VGM. CZN's shares in VGM are currently worth $18.2 million Canadian dollars.

CZN has 125,150,563 million shares outstanding giving it a market cap at $0.37 of $46.3 million Canadian dollars making it a truly undervalued situation. As of March 31, 2010, CZN had cash of $4.956 million, short term investments of $1.687 million, and no debt. On July 1, 2010, it was announced that CZN raised $2.5 million in a private placement at $0.40 per share.

If we combine CZN's cash and short-term investments with the recent private placement and estimate that CZN has burned around $1 million since the end of the 1Q, CZN probably has a cash position right now of somewhere around $8.1 million.

If we take CZN's current market cap of $46.3 million and subtract an estimated cash position of $8.1 million and the value of their 17% stake in VGM of $18.2 million, CZN’s Prairie Creek Property is currently being valued at only $20 million!

Remember, Prairie Creek already has about $100 million in infrastructure in place from the Hunt brothers' efforts and CZN has already spent another $18.7 million on exploration.

CZN plans to mine not only silver but also zinc. Because of recent gains in zinc prices, the U.S. government is now looking for ways to make coins without zinc. Congressman Ron Paul recently said, "We could not maintain the gold standard nor the silver standard. We could not maintain the copper standard, and now we cannot even maintain the zinc standard, paper money inevitably breeds inflation and destroys the value of currency.”

Sprott Asset Management is a major investor in CZN. As of December 31, 2009, they reported shared voting power of 17,652,033 shares. Sprott, just like CZN, is also a major shareholder in VGM.

NIA considers CZN to be a once in a lifetime opportunity to prosper during the upcoming hyperinflationary crisis.

Our legal disclaimer: http://inflation.us/legaldisclaimer.html

Friday, July 9, 2010

K-12 Education Subsidies

http://www.downsizinggovernment.org/education/k-12-subsidies#Waste


 

Categories:

Overview
Origins of Federal Intervention
Rising Federal Intervention since the 1960s
Educational Outcomes Have Not Improved
Misallocation and Bureaucracy
Conclusions


 

And the teachers now want a bailout.

Fraud in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program illustrates the problem with governments being charitable with other people’s money.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program provides $5 billion annually to the states, which distribute the funds to businesses, nonprofits, and homeowners. Unfortunately, the states do a poor job making sure the money isn't lost to fraud and abuse.


 

See here and here for the articles that detail what happened and the subsequent government investigation.

NASA's Feel Good Mission

http://english.aljazeera.net/programmes/talktojazeera/2010/07/201071122234471970.html


 

Are we spending $18 billion a year of taxpayer money on NASA simply to generate warm and fuzzy feelings?

Only a government monopoly would try to raise prices when the demand for its services is plummeting.

http://www.downsizinggovernment.org/usps-wants-rate-hike

Gambling, tennis while on the clock lands HUD employee in jail

Today I am just going to post a couple of articles that illustrate how inefficient the government actually is. This first one shows how we are never careful with someone else's money.

http://www.federaltimes.com/article/20100629/PERSONNEL03/6290305/1001

Would it take seven years for a senior manager at a private company to be fired if he goofed off and didn't go to work?

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Another up day: Dow advances 120 points

http://money.cnn.com/2010/07/08/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

Yet Another Student Loan?

http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2009/06/08/student-loan/


 

Though personally I think Dave Ramsey is an idiot when it comes to investing, I think that his advice on getting out of debt and avoiding debt is great advice.

The Macro Trumps All Else

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Kupperman/july082010.html


 

If you read nothing else, read this article. I discusses truly how volatile things are now and some of the underlying reasons why.

Business cycle won't be normal for next ten years – Rio Tinto

http://www.miningweekly.com/article/business-cycle-wont-be-normal-for-next-ten-years-rio-tinto-2010-07-08

Consumer borrowing down sharply in May

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Consumer-borrowing-down-apf-369803114.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=6&asset=&ccode=


 

Consumer borrowing falls sharply in May, marking the 15th decline in the past 16 months

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Dow industrials climb 57 to break seven-day slide

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Dow-industrials-climb-57-to-apf-1296365696.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=2&asset=&ccode=

Traders hunting for beaten-down stocks lift stocks; Dow gains 57 points but ends off its high

USDA: Corn, soybean conditions dip slightly

http://www.agriculture.com/ag/story.jhtml?storyid=/templatedata/ag/story/data/1278452408576.xml

Forecast has some farmers worried; numbers just what the market expected

Now loans are for sale at Sam's Club

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/sams-club-takes-on-credit-crunch-offering-loans-2010-07-06

Commentary: Wal-Mart unit to offer Main Street businesses a lifeline

China Makes Haste Slowly Globalizing the Yuan

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/government/china-makes-haste-slowly-globalizing-yuan/

WRAPUP 3-Australia govt under new mine tax revenue attack

http://af.reuters.com/article/metalsNews/idAFSGE66509K20100706?pageNumber=2&virtualBrandChannel=0&sp=true

I love that the idiot at Deloitte said that the tax would remove uncertainty and boost investment. Guess what would boost investment even more and reduce uncertainty even more? Not doing the damn tax and putting a cap on it where it is at, or even better, reducing the tax.

Friday, July 2, 2010

ALL BUSINESS: What to watch ahead of a GM IPO

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/ALL-BUSINESS-What-to-watch-apf-2724272066.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=8&asset=&ccode=

ALL BUSINESS: GM's turnaround under way, but that doesn't mean its ready for an IPO

Entrepreneurship Helps Make America Great

http://reason.com/archives/2010/07/01/entrepreneurship-helps-make-am

Free enterprise matters

Stocks end at new 2010 lows

http://money.cnn.com/2010/07/02/markets/markets_newyork/

Gold Prices Squeeze Out Gains

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10798146/1/gold-prices-squeeze-out-gains.html

Mixed June jobs data point to slow economic recovery

Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/07/02/1712884/mixed-june-jobs-data-point-to.html#ixzz0sZEroCL2

Thursday, July 1, 2010

BP spill may lead to higher oil prices: analysts

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/bp-spill-may-lead-to-higher-oil-prices-2010-07-01?dist=afterbell

Costly new regulations could squeeze company resources

GE Distances Itself From CEO's Reported Comments

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703571704575341051097221886.html?mod=WSJ_business_whatsNews

Pelosi: Unemployment Checks Fastest Way to Create Jobs

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/07/01/pelosi-unemployment-checks-best-way-create-jobs/

This logic is so stupid it needs no introduction

U.S. Stocks Decline After Reports on Manufacturing, Home Sales

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-07-01/stock-index-futures-drop-on-signs-global-economic-recovery-may-be-stalling.html

Gold Prices Plummeting on Thin Volume

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10796974/1/gold-prices-plummeting-on-thin-volume.html

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Financial Reform Bill Won't Stop Next Crisis

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11916

Oil Falters Despite Inventory Decline As Recovery Fears Remain

http://www.rttnews.com/Content/Commodities.aspx?Id=1348271&SM=1

UPDATE 1-Moody's puts Spain Aaa rating on review for cut

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN3024242220100630

Stocks Fizzle Into June's End

http://www.forbes.com/2010/06/30/private-payrolls-jobs-unemployment-ford-boeing-apple-bp-markets-economy-briefing.html?boxes=businesschannelsections

The private sector added just 13,000 U.S. jobs in June, far fewer than expected.

Hambro to Run BlackRock’s First U.S. Gold Mutual Fund

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-30/hambro-to-run-blackrock-s-first-u-s-gold-mutual-fund.html

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

House approves homebuyer tax credit extension

http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/29/news/economy/homebuyer_tax_credit/

How are we going to pay for this?

11 ways to graduate with less debt

http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/CollegeAndFamily/CutCollegeCosts/11-ways-to-graduate-with-less-debt.aspx

The Next Crisis: Public Pension Funds

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/27/magazine/27fob-wwln-t.html?partner=rss&emc=rss

These need to be completely cut. No bailouts for unions.

Fear Returns for Quarter's Final Act

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704103904575336431436202148.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_LEFTTopStories

Dow Falls 268.22 to Slide Under 10000, on Pace for First Quarterly Decline Since Bull Market Began

Gold Prices Rise Slightly, Silver Falls

http://www.coinnews.net/2010/06/29/gold-prices-rise-slightly-silver-falls/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CoinNewsnet+%28CoinNews.net%27s+Numismatic+News%29

Monday, June 28, 2010

Choppy Markets End in Stalemate

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/stocks-struggle-rebound-open/

African markets offer opportunities for the smart investor

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/opportunities-abound-in-african-markets-2010-06-28?dist=afterbell

Young population, growth rates and reforms are attractive, but risks remain

Interest rates fall again on investor pessimism

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Interest-rates-fall-again-on-apf-8152078.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

Interest rates keep falling as investor view of economy dims further; stocks edge lower

Silver Posting Best Streak Since Hunts No Matter Which Way Economy Turns

http://www.resourceintelligence.net/silver-posting-best-streak-since-hunts-no-matter-which-way-economy-turns/10069

Investors giddy for Tesla Motors IPO

http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/28/technology/tesla_ipo/

I am not as excited as the rest, but it could be good.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Family Reunion

I did not post over the weekend because I was at a family reunion with the wife. I had a great time going up Bryce Canyon and comparing my father in laws home town to a third world country. The best part about it was definitely being able to spend some quality time with my wife, who is truly my best friend. I will start up again on Monday. I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Louisiana's unified voice against drilling ban

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/louisianas-unified-voice-against-drilling-ban-2010-06-24

State's biggest industry gets support from all corners, including fishermen

Gold Rises on Bets Fed's Interest-Rate Outlook Will Lead to Weaken Dollar

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-06-24/gold-rises-on-bets-fed-s-interest-rate-outlook-will-lead-to-weaken-dollar.html

China stocks now offer appetizing entry point, say analysts

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/china-stocks-offer-value-entry-point-analysts-2010-06-22

Retailers, banks pull stocks lower; Dow slides 146

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Retailers-banks-pull-stocks-apf-391894174.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=1&asset=&ccode=

Stocks drop following downbeat forecasts from retailers; Traders eye costs of bank regulation

Merkel Rejects Obama's Call to Spend

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703900004575324941614808602.html?mod=mktw

German chancellor rebuffs pressure to boost domestic demand, not exports; warns Europe's crisis is far from over

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Cash Crops: Buying Farmland for Income

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703650604575313343743649622.html?mod=WSJ_PersonalFinance_PF4

Stocks slide on new concerns about housing, banks

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Stocks-slide-on-new-concerns-apf-3981291538.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=4&asset=&ccode=

Stocks fall on housing fears; oil shares drop as gov't plans to appeal ruling on drilling ban

It's Time America Had a Fat President

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11912

I love the quotes from President Taft: "the president cannot make clouds to rain, cannot make the corn to grow"

Loonie and Aussie dollar gaining reserve currency status

http://www.financialpost.com/news/Loonie+Aussie+dollar+gaining+reserve+status/3185503/story.html

Judge lifts offshore drilling ban as `overbearing'

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gIXWYBTpLtSayJtg41LKXpxSxVPAD9GGLCS01

Monday, June 21, 2010

NY state poised to assess nation's cigarette tax

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN2126757620100621

Cash-hungry New York state on Monday was poised to enact the highest cigarette tax in the nation, boosting its levy by $1.60 a pack to $4.35.

My opinion: No matter how much money the government gets, it will always find ways to spend it. You have to cut spending, not just raise taxes.

What The Yuan's Rise Means For U.S. Debt

http://www.forbes.com/2010/06/21/china-treasury-yuan-debt-markets-bonds.html?boxes=marketschannelnews

Sundance Plane Wreckage Found in Congo; No Survivors

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-21/sundance-plane-wreckage-found-in-congo-no-survivors-update3-.html

Six Australian, two British, one American and two French citizens were on the twin turboprop Casa C212 plane, chartered by Perth-based Sundance.

The Sundance personnel, including Chairman Geoff Wedlock, Chief Executive Officer Don Lewis, company secretary John Carr- Gregg and non-executive directors John Jones and Craig Oliver, were in Africa visiting members of the governments of Cameroon and Congo and the Mbalam project.

P.M. Kitco Metals Roundup: Comex Gold Sells Off After New High Scored Early; U.S. Dollar Firms, Crude Oil Weakens Late

http://www.kitco.com/reports/KitcoNewsJune212010_pm.html

Real Reform, But Not in America

http://stossel.blogs.foxbusiness.com/2010/06/17/real-reform-but-not-in-america/

This is what Hungary is doing to deal with its economic crisis. Seems really, really, really good. (no sarcasm)

15% cut in public salaries
16% flat tax rate
Freeze on many other sectors in government spending

Saturday, June 19, 2010

GoldWatch: Why Many Respected Analysts See Gold Going Up to $10,000

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Wilson/jun162010.html

In budget crisis, states take aim at pensions

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37798908/ns/us_news-the_new_york_times/

NYT: Some are cutting once-sacrosanct benefits to deal with deficits

I should have been a government worker. I get a pension, do not have to pay anything for healthcare, and can pretty much never be fired.

Fannie and Freddie tab is $146B and rising

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/nation/story/E744C01438F6DB698625774700815937?OpenDocument

Euro crisis will not impact equity investments in India

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/financial-times/Euro-crisis-will-not-impact-equity-investments-in-India/articleshow/6068915.cms

Reno, Nev. bank is 83rd to fail in U.S. in 2010

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/reno-nev-bank-is-83rd-to-fail-in-2010-2010-06-19?reflink=MW_news_stmp

Friday, June 18, 2010

Freedom and Exchange in Communist Cuba

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11897

Fidel Castro's socialist revolution promised to satisfy the basic needs of the Cuban people, but the price demanded was the surrender of freedoms. The unthinking enthusiasm that greeted the beginning of the revolution helped pave the way for the disappearance of civil, political, and economic rights within a short period of time. Instead of a brighter future, misery in Cuba is widespread and the individual is vilified.

Week Ahead: Earnings, Fed Meeting In Focus

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/week-ahead-earnings-fed-meeting-focus/

OIL FUTURES: Crude Posts Slim Rise As Products Rally Falters

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100618-708747.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

FOREX-Euro nudges 3-week highs, dollar on backfoot

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTOE65H04B20100618

Euro retains gains as concerns about euro zone debt ease


* Strong response to Spanish auctions supports high-yielders

* Dollar index vulnerable on the charts, soft vs Swissie

Gold closes at record high as stocks continue rally

http://www.statesman.com/business/gold-closes-at-record-high-as-stocks-continue-756691.html

Thursday, June 17, 2010

U.S. stocks end higher after late turnaround

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/stocks-open-mixed-after-downbeat-jobs-report-2010-06-17?dist=afterbell

Daily Pfennig 6/17/10: The Big Dog Gets Off the Porch!

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Butler/jun172010.html

A Pfennig For Your Thoughts

In This Issue….

* Good Spanish auction fuels a euro rally...
* SNB leaves out important words...
* Deflation disappears in Switzerland...
* U.S. Housing Starts drop -10%!

Rising Tab for the Mortgage Mess

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/10_26/b4184050343408.htm

The bailout of Fannie and Freddie could reach $1 trillion

Fresh economic worries trigger another gold surge

http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2010\06\18\story_18-6-2010_pg5_29

Experts Talk CPI, Jobless Claims, Fed's Next Move

http://www.businessweek.com/investor/content/jun2010/pi20100617_988540.htm

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Gold Prices Settle Lower

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10784744/1/gold-prices-settle-lower.html

Update: Fannie, Freddie Delisting Signals Firms Have No Value

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100616-712880.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

They are worth nothing....

Stocks close flat after BP escrow announcement

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37726765/ns/business-stocks_and_economy/

Company will spend $20 billion, announces it is suspending dividend

Crude prices rise again, gas pump prices up

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Crude-prices-rise-again-gas-apf-3037678190.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=8&asset=&ccode=

WAR ISN'T THIS CENTURY'S BIGGEST KILLER

http://www.hawaii.edu/powerkills/WSJ.ART.HTM

This is why the founding fathers founded our country the way that it is. Too much power leads to death. Always. No exceptions except Jesus.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

What Obama won't tell you tonight

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/what-obama-wont-tell-you-tonight-2010-06-15?pagenumber=2

Commentary: Five things you need to know about the Gulf response

GLOBAL MARKETS-Euro, stocks rally on demand for European debt

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN1510115520100615

Spain, Ireland, Belgium have solid debt sales

If the jump today was based on this, it will all go away sooner than later.

Gold Prices Climb, Silver and Platinum Advance

http://www.coinnews.net/2010/06/15/gold-prices-climb-silver-and-platinum-advance/

A Signal from the Stock Market

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Turk/turk_jun142010.html

Swiss parliament approves US tax deal on 2nd try

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Swiss-parliament-approves-US-apf-3641262374.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=5&asset=&ccode=

I hate this.

Monday, June 14, 2010

The housing-market recession is not over

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/the-housing-market-recession-is-not-over-2010-06-09

Why you shouldn't be overly optimistic about real estate right now

Japan Shares Fall After Three-session Climb

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/health-care/japan-shares-fall-session-climb/

Australia's White Dam Gold Mine Commissioned

http://www.mining-technology.com/news/news87711.html

Stocks falter in last hour; trader anxiety sets in

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Stocks-falter-in-last-hour-apf-2463073912.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=1&asset=&ccode=


Stocks falter, giving market a mixed close, as traders give in to final-hour anxiety

GLOBAL MARKETS-Greek debt downgrade bites into stocks' rally

http://www.reuters.com/article/idAFN1421181220100614?rpc=44

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Silver could hit $21/oz on industrial recovery-GFMS

http://www.sharenet.co.za/v3/news_disp.php?id=394792

Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index regains 20,000

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hong-kongs-hang-seng-index-regains-20000-2010-06-13

Buffett Predicts the Next Crisis

http://www.fool.com/investing/dividends-income/2010/06/10/buffett-predicts-the-next-crisis.aspx?source=ihpsitth0000001

If the bond market pops, get ready for all hell to break loose.

Currency Collapse May Stimulate Economic Expansion, BIS Says

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-13/currency-collapse-may-stimulate-economic-expansion-bis-says.html

Currency collapse are good for the economy, dont you know that!!!!

ECB's Orphanides: Inflation Not a Concern: Report

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=10902192

Of course inflation is not a concern to central bankers, when has it been?

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Markets exaggerating euro zone risks: ECB policymakers

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE65A2HW20100611

If a central banker is telling you something, believe the opposite. So most likely we are underestimating the euro zone risks.

Spain Says Has Not, Will Not Ask EU for Aid

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/economy/update--spain-says-make-eu-aid-request-11877670/

4.46 million shares of Nu Skin sold for $114 million

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700039356/446-million-shares-of-Nu-Skin-sold-for-114-million.html

Oil rig missed inspections, records show

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-oil-spill-20100612,0,907235.story


The regulators were probably really busy looking at pornography like their fellow regulators of the financial sector.

Chinese Wages, Currency Value May Increase, Bergsten Says

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-10/chinese-wages-currency-value-may-increase-bergsten-says.html

US Economist Fears Greek Debt Default in August

http://www.cnbc.com/id/37632681

Platinum: How you can invest in it and its prospects

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/the-sunday-et/money--you/Platinum-How-you-can-invest-in-it-and-its-prospects/articleshow/6042264.cms

Gold Will Continue to Shine

http://www.smartmoney.com/investing/economy/gold-will-continue-to-shine/

Consumers Tighten Belts

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703509404575300380133852708.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

Surprise Drop in Spending Adds to Doubts About the Recovery's Strength

Foreign investment in China up 27 percent in May

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Foreign-investment-in-China-apf-320977255.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=5&asset=&ccode=

Foreign investment in China rises 27 percent in May to more than $8 billion

Friday, June 11, 2010

Late Turnaround Lifts Stocks

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703509404575300210842004080.html?mod=WSJ_Markets_LEFTTopNews

Morgan Stanley Disses Australia: Forget The Latest Cheer, The Consumer Is Breaking And The Dollar Will Tank

http://www.businessinsider.com/australian-dollar-short-weakening-australian-consumer-2010-6

Chaos, Anarchy To Reign If Paterson Shuts Down NY

http://wcbstv.com/politics/nys.goverment.shutdown.2.1745114.html

Shutdown Would Mean Closing Of State Parks, DMV, Courts, N.Y. Lottery

I wonder what would happen if the government actually shutdown and then no one noticed, could we just keep it shut down?

Nations have reached a “Keynesian endpoint”

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=a2LX1ujFJQTA&pos=7

Finally someone talking some sense, at least a bit of sense.

Daily Pfennig 6/11/10: Brazil Hikes Rates Again!

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Butler/jun112010.html

New law gives N.Y. regulators power to approve health rate hikes

http://ifawebnews.com/2010/06/11/new-law-gives-n-y-regulators-power-to-approve-health-rate-hikes/

This could be the dumbest thing I have ever heard of, but of course, health care is a "right".

Retail sales drop is first in 8 months

http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/11/news/economy/retail_sales/

Coeur d'Alene reportedly halting Argentina mine

http://www.miningweekly.com/article/coeur-dalene-reportedly-halting-argentina-mine-2010-06-11

Reason.tv: 3 Reasons Why Obama Should Kick His Own Ass

http://reason.com/blog/2010/06/10/reasontv-3-reasons-why-obama-s

Netflix To Buy Back Up To $300 Mln In Shares

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/entertainment/netflix-buy--mln-shares/

Thursday, June 10, 2010

SA Gold output drops 6,2%

http://www.businessday.co.za/articles/Content.aspx?id=111575

South African Gold production drops.

Stocks surge on US jobs data, China trade growth

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Stocks-surge-on-US-jobs-data-apf-1102965448.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

Our (Largely) Unknown Neighbour

http://blogs.marketwatch.com/canada/2010/06/08/our-largely-unknown-neighbour/

Blog about the economics of Canada.

Bearish Schultz says hyperinflation may happen suddenly

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hyperinflation-could-happen-suddenly-2010-06-10

The biggest thing to remember is that hyperinflation is a monetary event, not a economic event. Always remember that it is possible that hyperinflation can happen during a depression, think Weimar Republic during the 1920's and 1930's.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Fethullah Gulen's cave of wonders

http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/LF09Ak02.html

Interesting article regarding how Turkey is hoping for an Iranian attack on Israel that would catapult itself (Turkey) back to being a much more important part of the middle east. I wonder what this would do the price of oil.....

Targeting most-hated debt first

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37219279/ns/business-personal_finance/

Paying off loathsome obligation can bring emotional relief.

Companies Fear DC's Regulatory Vaporware Will Vaporize Profits

http://emac.blogs.foxbusiness.com/2010/06/09/companies-fear-dcs-regulatory-vaporware-will-vaporize-profits

Spot Gold Prices Fall on Macro Reassurances

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10779465/1/spot-gold-prices-fall-on-macro-reassurances.html?puc=_tscrss&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsc%2Ffeeds%2Frss%2Fprecious-metals+%28Precious+Metals%29

Mises as Policy Advisor

http://reason.com/blog/2010/03/12/mises-as-policy-advisor

Good Austrian Economics Artile

Roundtable: Avoid These Stocks Entirely

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2010/06/08/roundtable-avoid-these-stocks-entirely.aspx?source=ihpsitth0000001

German government rejects aid for GM's Opel

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/German-government-rejects-aid-apf-2294365527.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=3&asset=&ccode=

German economy minister rejects federal government aid for GM's Opel unit

Why the hell would they ever give money to a company who sucks so incredibly bad?

Mortgage rates continue to drop

http://www.csmonitor.com/Money/Paper-Economy/2010/0609/Mortgage-rates-continue-to-drop

But yet no one is buying houses.

The 'Too Big' Divide on Banks

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703890904575296430874218148.html

How about we just let the free market work? None of these banks would have been able to get how big they were without government bailouts and special help.

Bernanke Says Gold, Commodities Conflict on Inflation

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-09/bernanke-says-gold-commodities-conflict-on-inflation-update2-.html

Whatever he says, usually the opposite is true.

Irish Approach vs. Grecian Formula

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11881

What should be done vs. what is being done

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Swiss lawmakers reject deal with US in UBS tax row

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Swiss-lawmakers-reject-deal-apf-334047202.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=6&asset=&ccode=

Swiss lawmakers block deal with US over UBS tax evasion dispute

Good old USA, can not handle anyone having any money outside of the country. So lets make it illegal for everyone! Oh wait, the Jobs bill already did that.

General Motors pulls back on dealership cuts

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/General-Motors-pulls-back-on-apf-3423626881.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

General Motors eases cuts, expects 900 more dealers than planned by summer

When you are funded by the taxpayers, everything is gravy anyway.

McDonald's Still Lovin' It

http://www.forbes.com/2010/06/08/mcdonalds-food-restaurant-markets-equities-sales-consumer.html?boxes=financechannelforbes

The fast-food chain reported a 4.8% gain in May's same-store results.

EU ministers back Estonia bid to join euro

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/10264800.stm

Since the euro zone is going so well all should join!

Brazilian equities, currency higher after GDP jump

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brazils-gdp-zooms-up-9-stocks-rise-2010-06-08?reflink=MW_news_stmp

US Stocks Build On Gains Late In Session

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100608-712927.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

Gold Eases on Sales After Futures Surge to Record $1,254.50

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-08/gold-eases-on-sales-after-futures-surge-to-record-1-254-50.html

Bernanke: No Double-Dip Recession

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/business-leaders/bernanke-double-dip-recession/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+foxbusiness%2Feconomy+%28Text+-+Markets+-+Economy%29

Based on this news story there will be a double dip recession.

$13,050,826,460,886.97

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11874

$13,050,826,460,886.97

That's what the National Debt topped this week, a record.

Stop the Federal Spending Spree

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11878

Monday, June 7, 2010

Rockhopper plans placing to raise 40 mln stg- FT

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE6562GN20100607

Bears Dig in Heels: Dow Falls 115 to 2010 Low

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/futures-bounce-letdown-friday/

Putting a New Image on the Term 'Cheapskate'

http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2010/06/07/putting-new-image-term-cheapskate/

Pep Boys reports 10 percent jump in 1Q earnings

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Pep-Boys-reports-10-percent-apf-2946938695.html?x=0

Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper Reach Distribution Deal

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703303904575292341015388912.html?mod=WSJ_Markets_section_Deals

Consumer Credit in U.S. Increased $1 Billion in April

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-07/consumer-credit-in-u-s-increased-1-billion-in-april-update2-.html

This is great news. We spend our money on crap.

Euro keeps falling below $1.20

http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/07/markets/dollar/?postversion=2010060714

The dollar is in worse shape, the world just is not ready to fight that battle yet.

Summary Box: Meltdown probe subpoenas Goldman

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iMzBwGVtiJmFPYR3yCX5Nla6TDzwD9G6MEAO0

Funny how no one is outraged at the role of the government in the economic meltdown.

Monday's Analytical Charts for Gold, Silver and Platinum

http://www.kitco.com/reports/template_jimw.htm

Gold ends $2 shy of May record, silver up 5%

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/gold-ends-2-shy-of-may-record-silver-up-5-2010-06-07

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Silver crashes, Gold rises during the week

http://www.newkerala.com/news/fullnews-122074.html

Silver will rebound, but it might go lower before it does.

Cash-for-gold rip-offs prevalent

http://www.ajc.com/news/cash-for-gold-rip-542666.html?cxtype=rss_business

Never sell your gold to people you send it. Bring it in to a dealer. Rust Coin and Gift is a great one in Provo.

8 reasons you spend too much

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37219059/ns/business-personal_finance/

Paying with plastic, buying in bulk can wreck your budget

Oil turns lower as euro hits new four-year low

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/oil-turns-lower-as-euro-its-new-four-year-low-2010-06-04

FX OUTLOOK-Bearish tone on euro to persist next week

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN0411213820100604

* Euro zone woes now beyond Greece, overshadow U.S. data

* Traders flagging $1.18 as key downside euro target

* Focus on ECB rate decision next week

German businesses could steer the country out of the eurozone

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/04/AR2010060404815.html?hpid=topnews

Better Earnings Go Down Smooth For Krispy Kreme

http://www.forbes.com/2010/06/04/todays-big-gainers-kkd-zqk-rcmt-marketnewsvideo.html

Donut shop doubles year-ago profit, guides higher for fiscal year.

China to Review Agricultural Bank IPO

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704183204575287950425226806.html?mod=WSJ_business_AsiaNewsBucket

Honda Says Strike Over At China Subsidiary, Production Resumes Monday

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100604-712776.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

WalMart to create 500,000 jobs in the next five years

http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/walmart-to-create-500000-jobs-innext-five-years/397204/

Friday, June 4, 2010

Gold Jumps on Euro Slump, “Spanish Flu” Banking Fears, and Poor US Jobs Data

http://www.resourceintelligence.net/gold-jumps-on-euro-slump-spanish-flu-banking-fears-and-poor-us-jobs-data/9666

Gold ticks up on bargain hunting

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64R5OH20100531?type=ousivMolt

Baker Hughes expands in Russia through acquisition

https://news.fidelity.com/news/news.jhtml?cat=Corp.MNA&articleid=201006041844RTRSNEWSCOMBINED_N04108848_1&IMG=N

Signs of a Economic Depression

http://www.europac.net/externalframeset.asp?from=home&id=18815&type=browne

Regulators shut banks in Neb., Miss., Ill.

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Regulators-shut-banks-in-Neb-apf-1155923153.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=1&asset=&ccode=

Man, this really does feel like a recovery

States Shrink ‘Unaffordable’ Benefits to Bridge $1 Trillion Gap

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-06-04/states-shrink-unaffordable-benefits-to-bridge-1-trillion-gap.html

I do not understand how they even get the benefits they get. Not much meaning to the phrase civil servant if you ask me, more like civil kings.

Hungary in ‘Grave’ State, Official Says; Forint Falls

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601068&sid=aSDPM6F7K89Q

More good news from Europe

Stocks sink on disappointing jobs report

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-stocks-20100605,0,2026766.story

Hiring Recovery Sputters

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704764404575286921361095484.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

Dow Below 10000, Euro at Four-Year Low on Jobs Data, Crisis in Hungary

Thursday, June 3, 2010

UK Fines JPMorgan Record $49 Million, Warns Other Banks

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/finance/update--uk-fines-jpmorgan-record--mln-warns-banks/

Australia shares fall as banks, resources slip

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/australia-shares-fall-as-banks-resources-slip-2010-06-03

South African gold coin output jumps 50 percent to 25-year high

http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=5499216&fSectionId=630&fSetId=662

Top 5 Precious Metals Funds

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Top-5-Precious-Metals-zacks-3954082594.html;_ylt=A0PDkxyOWAhMGDYAKiG7YWsA;_ylu=X3oDMTFhZnY2YnR1BHBvcwMyBHNlYwNzcGVjaWFsRmVhdHVyZXMEc2xrA3RvcDVwcmVjaW91cw--?x=0

U.S. stocks end up slightly ahead of jobs report

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stocks-end-up-slightly-ahead-of-jobs-report-2010-06-03?reflink=MW_news_stmp

NYMEX-Crude ends up sharply as inventories drop

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN0363813920100603?type=marketsNews

Japan's Kan Vows To Pursue Both Growth, Fiscal Reform

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100603-707070.html?mod=WSJ_World_MIDDLEHeadlinesAsia

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Yes, You CAN Get Out of Debt

http://finance.yahoo.com/how-to-guide/banking-budgeting/18442

Good advice

Fed officials see small uncertainty from Europe

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Fed-officials-see-small-rb-3864388791.html?x=0

The Fed officials took a five minute break from having their heads shoved up their arse to talk to Reuters.

Treasury sees options available for AIG repayments

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Treasury-sees-options-apf-2641035700.html?x=0

One of the top options is for the American Public to grab their ankles, the Treasury has consulted China on this and has agreed this option will be the one that has the most favorable effect.

Consumers snap up cars in May, despite fewer deals

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Consumers-snap-up-cars-in-May-apf-1354955472.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

I bet none were financed.

US presses economic powers to adopt 'core' financial rules

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hQnoEcJjr5M6SZgILhj5KVPsWeXg

Article should have an asterik that says: US refuses to adopt these core financial rules and instead will make sure to print money for any firm that fails.

Tax Credit boosts pending home sales, Analysts say it won't last.

http://www.kansascity.com/2010/06/02/1988021/tax-credit-boosts-pending-home.html

It will not last, there is now no incentive to buy a home in a crappy market. But do not worry, the government will do something else to prop prices up soon!

U.S. Proposes Protections for Airline Passengers

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703561604575282511186581850.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

There are no solutions, just trade offs. If this becomes law it will mean higher airline prices for ALL.

Commodities Broke Down

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Martens/jun022010.html

Current Commodity Breakdown

Some Central American countries put breaks on mining

http://www.miningweekly.com/article/some-central-american-countries-put-breaks-on-mining-2010-06-02

Goodbye productive economies!

Undercover Census Fraud Investigation - New Jersey

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zJ04AWn-5w&feature=player_embedded

Our tax dollars at work!

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Hewlett-Packard to cut 9K jobs in services unit

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/HewlettPackard-to-cut-9K-jobs-apf-2214009414.html?x=0

HP plans to cut 9,000 jobs, take $1 billion in charges as it deepens automation of data hubs

Canada raises interest rates

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Canada-raises-interest-apf-459245508.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=6&asset=&ccode=

Canada's becomes first G-7 country to raise interest rates since the global financial crisis

Hershey signs tentative labor deal

http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9G2HD8O0.htm

Good old Unions.

Euro steadies, yen dips on Japan PM resignation

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64K0JX20100602?type=ousivMolt

Employee Compensation in State and Local Governments

http://www.cato.org/pubs/tbb/tbb-59.pdf

So such thing as public servant.

No, We Don't Need a Teacher Bailout

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11852

Could not agree more

Monday, May 31, 2010

Spending could be European crisis’ next victim

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37436141/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/

Americans do not want to wake up from this dream economy, but reality will eventually set in, and we will all realize how bad off we really are.

ECB warns of more bank loan losses

https://news.fidelity.com/news/news.jhtml?cat=Top.Investing.RT&articleid=201005310153RTRSNEWSCOMBINED_TRE64R35J_1&IMG=Y

Ok, I will send out invites for the Euro going away party.

Shell Adds Shale

http://www.forbes.com/2010/05/28/royal-dutch-shell-adds-shale-assets-marketnewsvideo.html

Royal Dutch Shell is scooping up a privately held gas company.

Dark Horse

http://www.forbes.com/global/2010/0607/companies-cadila-healthcare-india-pankaj-patel-dark-horse.html?boxes=Homepagetoprated

Interesting Indian Pharmaceutical Company.

It's Time to Cut Our National Budget

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2010/05/28/its-time-to-cut-our-national-budget.aspx?source=ihpsitota0000001&lidx=2

NO. $H!T.

India's economy grows at fastest pace in 2 years

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Indias-economy-grows-at-apf-1347952416.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=6&asset=&ccode=

Good news for India.

UPDATE 1-Australians keep shopping, rates still on hold

http://www.iii.co.uk/news/?type=afxnews&articleid=7919387&format=raw&action=article

They just keep shopping, but the article complains that not enough people can get loans for houses, since that worked out so well everyone else ya know?

OIL FUTURES: Crude Rises Despite Spain Downgrade; Trade Muted

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/oil-futures-crude-rises-despite-spain-downgrade-trade-muted-2010-05-31

Euro Declines on Concerns Over Spending Cuts and Bank Losses

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-31/euro-declines-on-concerns-over-spending-cuts-and-bank-losses.html


"The euro extended its longest monthly drop versus the dollar in 10 years on concerns Europe’s efforts to reduce budget deficits will derail the region’s economies as the credit crisis shakes the banking system."

Fed's Evans says policy easing was not enough

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6500D620100601

The genius thinks we should have given the banks more money.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

5/25/10 Marc Faber on Bloomberg: Bearish on Everything

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPZ44PLALmU&feature=channel

Marc Faber makes me laugh

5/24/10 Peter Schiff on CNBC: Is U.S. the Next Greece or Japan?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-MwSKLxYow&feature=channel

Rio’s Chief Says Mining Tax Puts Half Its Balance Sheet at Risk

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=afLxcXDqDxHg&pos=5

Miners do not have to mine, and Australians will learn that soon enough if this legislation is passed.

Uncertainty Reigns Supreme

http://www.europac.net/externalframeset.asp?from=home&id=18788&type=browne

No wonder there is so much volatility in the markets.

Diet drugs Alli and Xenical may cause liver failure

http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/05/29/diet-drugs-alli-and-xenical-may-cause-liver-failure/


Bad news for the makers of these drugs.

Buffett's a Dividend Investor, Why Aren't You?

http://www.fool.com/investing/dividends-income/2010/05/27/buffetts-a-dividend-investor-why-arent-you.aspx?source=ihpsitas0000001&lidx=4

I think investing in companies that pay dividends is the way to go, mostly because I think these companies are actually paying attention to the people who are investing in them.

U.K. Budget Cuts Will Target Welfare

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704032704575268640259483012.html

Interesting article on the unintended consequences of the welfare state that no one wants to talk about.

Warning: Crash dead ahead. Sell. Get liquid. Now.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/crash-is-dead-ahead-sell-get-liquid-now-2010-05-25?pagenumber=2

Wow, he is more pessimistic than I am and I do not agree with him on everything, but this article is pretty decent IMHO.

Poll finds debt-dogged Americans stressed out

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Poll-finds-debtdogged-apf-3179586089.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=1&asset=&ccode=

It sure does not stress the government out.

Bernanke, Trichet see key emerging economies role

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64U09L

Japan Manufacturing Rises

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703703704575277243392410822.html

New York Senator Proposes Tax to Bring Jobs

http://www.keyc.com/node/37899

Good intentions, bad results. The companies can just outsource everything so they are exempt from this.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

History might not repeat itself, but it sure does rhyme.

"The budget should be balanced,

the Treasury should be refilled,

public debt should be reduced,

the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled,

and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed lest Rome become bankrupt.

People must again learn to work, instead of living on public assistance."

- Cicero, 55 BC

Berkshire confirms Buffett subpoenaed to testify

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64R4I720100528

Buffett has to testify on what caused the 2008 financial crisis in front of a government commission that does not even disclose its own finances. He is testifying in regards to how government bond ratings agencies contributed to the crisis.

How about how government created the crisis and are now making it worse? I hope he has the stones to tell these idiots that.

May's Big Selloff Could Be Just the Beginning

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB127517060464598905.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLENexttoWhatsNewsThird

"Are you ready for a lot more turmoil?

You had better be -- because there's a good chance that's what you're going to get.

Nobody knows for certain, of course. All stock-market predictions need to be taken with a little salt. But there are reasons to suspect that the sudden plunges of the past few weeks may be unhappy omens of what's to come."

Gold and Silver Insurance

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Ruff/ruff_may242010.html

Good advice for the balanced investor

Jaguar-Land Rover to begin assembling cars in China

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE64R1RY20100528

More Manufacturing jobs for China.

Threat Level Privacy, Crime and Security Online Previous post Next post NSA Shields Government Networks With More AT&T Secret Rooms Read More http:/

http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2009/07/einstein/

Do I think the government is monitoring me? No. Do I think they have the right to monitor me? No. Do they have the power to? Yes, without a warrant. Thank you National Security.

"The Obama administration has decided to proceed with a classified Bush administration plan to let the NSA monitor traffic going to and from government civilian networks to protect the networks from malicious code and activity, according to a Washington Post story on Friday.

Given the NSA’s involvement in the Bush administration’s warrantless eavesdropping program, critics are concerned that the monitoring of government traffic on private-sector telecommunication networks that are used by the general public would allow the agency to once again spy on large swaths of non-government traffic without a warrant."

Share | AllPennyStocks.com Announces Corporate Write-Up on Nitro Petroleum Inc. (OTCBB:NTRO)

http://www.baystreet.ca/users/newswire/viewarticle.aspx?id=362637

Interesting oil company. No, its not BP.

The Arithmetic Adds Up to a Greek Restructuring

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704269204575270542452965672.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

This needs to happen, it probably will not, but it needs to.

U.S. stocks fall, end May with 8% loss

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stocks-fall-end-may-with-8-loss-2010-05-29?reflink=MW_news_stmp

There will be another stimulus. Write it down.

Why Are We Wasting Money on the Financial Crisis Commission?

http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2010/05/why-are-we-wasting-money-on-the-financial-crisis-commission/57387/

While I do not want the government bailing anyone out (as the author suggests) it is interesting to note that this group that is trying to enforce transparency on wall street, refuses to disclose its own books. Thank you government, for wasting money and not being accountable.

Bank of Florida’s Lenders Closed as Bank Failures Climb to 78

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-29/bank-of-florida-s-lenders-closed-as-bank-failures-climb-to-78.html


Recovery is imminent

Friday, May 28, 2010

Chris Christie vs. Teachers Unions

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuri7p_9pm4&feature=aso

The end is classic: "And that is why the union has no credibility, stupid statements like that"

Chris Christie 1, Rita Wilson -111

By the way, she makes 86k a year, and that is not counting health benefits or pension plans. I feel really really really bad for her.

Geithner tells Europe: emulate China

http://www.smh.com.au/business/world-business/geithner-tells-europe-emulate-china-20100528-wiam.html

Hey Geithner, how about you start implementing policies that would make the USA more like China (at least economically) and stop worrying about Europe, if it was not for their problems, the whole world would know how screwed the USA is going to be. But hey you are the genius, not me.

China Hints at Shift on Ship-Sinking Stance

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704596504575272152006762206.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLENexttoWhatsNewsSecond

China is shifting old alliances, little by little, slowly but surely.

Big Stock Ideas for Big Profit

http://www.fool.com/investing/high-growth/2010/05/28/big-stock-ideas-for-big-profit.aspx?source=ihpsitth0000003


From the article:


I'm going to warn you right away: The type of opportunities I'm about to tell you about may not be for you. They're only for a certain type of investor.

If you're the type of person who prefers to hit for average, click here for some good advice.

Jobless aid set to expire despite House approval

http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/provider/providerarticle.aspx?feed=OBR&date=20100528&id=11550374

Please, we can tax our way out of this. Take all my money!

U.S. Economy: Spending Pauses as Households Save More

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-28/u-s-economy-spending-pauses-as-households-save-more-update1-.html

We need more of this, no matter what interest rates are.

Spain’s Downgrade Caps a Down Month for Stocks

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/29/business/29markets.html?src=mv

Spain before Portugal is about the only thing surprising about this story.

Sestak says Clinton chat under a minute

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/28/AR2010052802879.html


Good old politics.

Greek Scramble For Physical Brings Gold Price To $1,700 Per Ounce

http://www.zerohedge.com/article/greek-scramble-physical-brings-gold-price-1700-ounce

Something like this would never happen in Europe, never. It is just fear mongering to say that it could happen there.

Reserve Bank in link to graft and hookers

http://www.news.com.au/business/reserve-bank-in-link-to-graft-and-hookers/story-e6frfm1i-1225870357544

Oh government, how you love your hookers just like everyone else. You just keep pretending that you dont.

In real money, British house prices are down by 70%

http://www.moneyweek.com/investments/property/uk-house-prices-in-ounces-of-gold-02110.aspx

Wow.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

This week's Mutual Funds and ETF stories

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/bearish-sentiment-is-good-news-for-investors-2010-05-27?siteid=rss#mod=BOL_hpp_BOL2MW

Financials Lead Australia, Korea Up

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704269204575271281126595488.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_sections_markets

Tax Evasion, Corruption, and the European Bailout

http://emac.blogs.foxbusiness.com/2010/05/27/tax-evasion-corruption-and-european-bailout?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogs%2Femac+%28Blogs+-+EMac%27s+Stock+Watch%29

Go Greece Go!

Heinz pours on a 9.8 pct rise in 4Q net income

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Heinz-pours-on-a-98-pct-rise-apf-3598308020.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=5&asset=&ccode=

Spiking sales in emerging markets help Heinz 4Q net income rise 9.8 percent

Senate OKs war funding; House to cut spending bill

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Senate-OKs-war-funding-House-apf-3890744715.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

I thought Obama ran on ending these wars?

Asia Pacific markets

http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=5487980&fSectionId=630&fSetId=662

Good news for Asia.

Goldman Says Buy Microsoft as Apple Overtakes Stock

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-27/goldman-says-buy-microsoft-as-apple-overtakes-stock-update2-.html

It did just lose alot of value, so it might be a good short term buy.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Mutual Fund I am looking into...

http://www.ephasiafunds.com/

Euro Pacific Capital, Inc., Halter Financial Investments L.P. and the management team created a registered investment advisor called Euro Pacific Halter Asia Management, Inc. (“EPHAM”). EPHAM is launching the EPH China Fund, a mutual fund based on Peter Schiff’s investment philosophy focused exclusively on investing in China and its Special Administrative Regions. The EPH China Fund is a value-oriented strategy with a long-term focus on financially sound, stable but growing, dividend-paying Chinese companies.

Not making any recommendation, just letting you know I am looking into it.

When Will the Eurozone Collapse?

http://www.cato.org/pub_display.php?pub_id=11838

Written by Václav Klaus, who is the President of the Czech Republic, which refused to be part of the Eurozone, obviously know he looks smart, but boy was he criticized at the time like crazy.

Stocks fade late as euro sinks; Dow ends under 10K

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Stocks-fade-late-as-euro-apf-353744086.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=5&asset=&ccode=

This is the best economic "recovery" I have ever been apart of. I do not know why I can not shake the feeling that this is all just a big joke. Oh wait, that is because there is no recovery, just more debt and more government failure.

IRS 'Wealth Squads' On The Way

http://www.forbes.com/2010/05/26/irs-wealthy-audits-offshore-hedge-fund-personal-finance-rocen.html?boxes=Homepagechannels

They should call them "IRS CAPITAL HIT SQUADS: DESTROYING PRIVATE CAPITAL" But ti was too long, so they went with "Wealth Squads" instead. Either way what a bunch of pricks.

Shares of Silvercorp Metals Inc. (SVM) Failed to Break the Resistance Line

http://www.marketintellisearch.com/articles/1017105.html

Article on one of Peter Schiff's Stock Picks from about five months ago.

Japan's Exports Jump 40% In April; Trade Surplus Swells

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100526-717041.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Why Housing is Headed for Second-Half Headaches

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Why-Housing-is-Headed-for-usnews-3020690600.html?x=0

How Kindle will compete with the iPad

http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2010/05/25/how-kindle-will-compete-with-the-ipad/

By not competing

American Jobbery Act

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704113504575264532051783298.html?mod=WSJ_hp_mostpop_read

Check out the spending on this bill. Senator Hatch co-authored it. The last two things on are the only things that have anything do with Job Creation, which the government sucks at anyway. But seriously what a STUPID WASTE OF MONEY. That we BORROWED because we are so damn BROKE.

Legendary Investor Is More Worried Than Ever

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704167704575258442772338282.html?mod=loomia&loomia_si=t0:a16:g2:r3:c0.050819:b34254968?partner=yahoofinance

Best quote from the article: You could have heard a pin drop as Mr. Klarman proclaimed, "I am more worried about the world, more broadly, than I ever have been in my career." That's because you can make good investing decisions and still end up with bad results if you reap your profits in currencies that do not hold their purchasing power, he explained.

"Will money be worth anything," asked Mr. Klarman, "if governments keep intervening anytime there's a crisis to prop things up?"

America -- The Bell Tolls for Thee

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/America-The-Bell-Tolls-for-tsmf-3305173800.html;_ylt=AlGwoNWVSla08CtpOlSRCXi7YWsA;_ylu=X3oDMTFhbWE5a29jBHBvcwM5BHNlYwNzcGVjaWFsRmVhdHVyZXMEc2xrA2FtZXJpY2EtLXRoZQ--?x=0

First comes Greece, Then Comes Spain, Them Comes America in a, a, I had something for this....

Euro falls again as fear rules

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64K0JX20100526?type=ousivMolt

That bailout really saved the currency....

Private pay shrinks to historic lows as gov't payouts rise

http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/income/2010-05-24-income-shifts-from-private-sector_N.htm

Gold



Gold is doing so well. Can it keep doing well? Would a market correction hurt the gold market?

Peter

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2010/05/21/how-peter-lynch-destroyed-the-market.aspx?source=ihpdspmra0000001&lidx=5

Some great advice for investors. Has anyone seen what Netflix has been doing? Crazy growth, we all need to keep our eyes open for the next thing that everyone is going to have. Imax home theaters? Ipads? Whatever it may be, buy what people buy.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Please, read this, it will teach you something AND make you laugh.....

--A miner – indeed no entrepreneur – goes into business to make a marginal profit. He goes into business to make a big profit, knowing full well that everything is against him. The marketplace abhors a huge profit margin the way nature abhors a vacuum. Profits are a signal to other competitors to come in and provide a good or service at a cheaper price or in a better way.

--The innovative entrepreneur captures big initial profits by taking big initial risks. His risk ends up benefitting everyone by luring other producers in. The end result for consumers is an industry or goods and services that didn't exist before. That is a social benefit which does not accrue to a corporate bottom line.

--In any event, in a world where public sector salaries are higher, the only real reason to stay in the private sector is that you have a business you want to be in and believe you can make more doing in that way. There are other more ethical and philosophical reasons too, of course. But the government inviting itself to be your partner in business is like a stranger inviting himself into your marriage bed.

--He says it will subsidise your love-making on nights where you have poor performance, saving your marriage from trouble. And on magical nights, he's ...uh...just along for the ride. Because your marriage bed is in his jurisdiction, he's entitled to his fair share of your marital bliss. And please scoot over would you? You're hogging the doona.

--Granted, there is a difference between a spouse and a non-renewable natural resource. Although now that we type that, we are less sure about it than when we first thought about it. But in our metaphor above, where the government intrudes into a pre-existing, consensual, private relationship, it's pretty clear who's getting

From: The Daily Reckoning

Gold Drops but safe haven remains

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6495XB20100520?type=ousivMolt

Gold is still money.

Euro Falls for 2nd Day on Concern Europe Debt Crisis Spreading

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-24/euro-falls-for-2nd-day-on-concern-europe-debt-crisis-spreading.html

Downsizing Government

http://www.downsizinggovernment.org/education/k-12-subsidies

Government has not helped education, it has ruined it. I have a great idea, fire all union teachers, Cut their pension plans, Cut their health care benefits. I am not sure of any industry that is so well taken care of with benefits as government workers are. Open up the free market, what do people think will happen if the government gets out of the way, everyone will stop going to school? NO! Prices will drop and quality will improve just like EVERY OTHER INDUSTRY that the government has NOT been involved in.

I watched a news report on the poor school districts and it annoyed me how teachers are portrayed as always being perfect. All Unions do is eliminate competition so crappy teachers and good teachers are equalized. Good teachers would be paid more and bad teachers would be let go. BYU has no tenure, and I think it has helped them improve the quality of teaching.

Spain Stocks' Year-to-Date Drop at 22%

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704113504575264603835747256.html?

Good old Spaniards.

Defaults on Apartment-Building Loans Set Record for U.S. Banks

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=a4Zv_

I love recoveries!

GOVERNMENTWIDE PURCHASE CARDS

http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d08333.pdf

This report issued by Government Accountability Office estimated that “nearly 41 percent” of purchase card transactions made from July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006 failed to meet “basic internal control standards.”

This comes on the heel of this:

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/05/24/government-employees-reportedly-massive-shopping-spree-taxpayer-money-face/

I thought that the benevolent government was more evolved than the rest of us, free from greed, sin, and imperfections.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Brazil stocks rise on post-plunge bargain hunting

http://www.reuters.com/article/idCNN2120675720100521?rpc=44

Fiscal crises threaten Europe's generous benefits

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Fiscal-crises-threaten-apf-242192521.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=2&asset=&ccode=

Socialism is not sustainable whether Europe Runs, the USA runs, or Gandhi runs it. Eventually you just run out of money because people have no motivation to work.

China vetting Morgan Stanley sale of CICC stake: report

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64N02A20100524

Good move? Bad move?

Geithner says sees global economy improving

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64N0DO20100524

When Tim Geithner says something, you should probably realize the opposite is true.

How to tweak Social Security

http://www.presstelegram.com/opinions/ci_15147777

Awww the stupidity of people. Lets tweak it so it can be around for another 75 years, who cares after that, it is so far away. It is this type of thinking that got us into the mess we are in and the mess we are in is nothing compared to the mess we will be in.

Ailing Spanish Lender Gets a €550 Million Bailout

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/24/business/global/24iht-peseta.html?src=busln

One little, two little, three little too big to fail.

Even Young Germans Fantasize About Leaving The Euro Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/even-young-germans-fantasize-about-leaving-the-euro-201

http://www.businessinsider.com/even-young-germans-fantasize-about-leaving-the-euro-2010-5

Eventually the EU will fall apart, if not in public, it will in private. With the Euro leading the failure. It just does not work, and the strongest country's population wants out. That farewell party keeps moving its date up for the Euro.

Rio Tinto Calls Aussie Mining Tax A Sovereign Risk

http://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/10/05/295796/rio-tinto-calls-aussie-mining-tax-a-sovereign-risk

Good old government, not realizing that capital can flee their markets as fast as it fled to their markets.

Bullish Bets On Oil Reduced

http://www.benzinga.com/general/10/05/295797/bullish-bets-on-oil-reduced

Based on reduced consumption and strength of the dollar. The dollar will strengthen short term. Long term, no way.

Hu Says China to Move Gradually, Independently on Yuan Changes

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-23/hu-says-china-to-move-gradually-independently-on-yuan-changes.html

They will do it when they want to, and when they do it will hurt us more than them.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Peter Schiff: Stock market, U.S. economy, financial regs, exchange controls

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qz0aHQ8KUpQ&playnext_from=TL&videos=wlfC8YC-wf0&feature=sub

Seriously. I love Capital Controls. I love how the American Public is so mystified by Lindsey Lohan and whoever the hell else is in the news that they pay little to no attention to what the HUGE bill that just passed the Senate even says. This is just step 2. Step 1 was in the "Jobs" bill that passed. Step 2 is in this bill. Soon, we will be unable as a nation to invest in foreign anything, be it by complete and outright denial, insane taxation, or regulation that makes it so costly it is not worth it to invest there anyway.

Highway Robbery on Capitol Hill

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2010/05/18/highway-robbery-on-capitol-hill.aspx?source=ihpsitas0000001&lidx=1

Great article

Yen slips vs. euro, dollar after Japan minister comments

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/yen-slips-vs-rivals-after-japan-minister-warns-2010-05-20

Nobody wants a strong currency.

The Tough Sell of Nuclear Investing

http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/109609/the-tough-sell-of-nuclear-investing

US, Britain and Germany to discuss debt crisis

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/US-Britain-and-Germany-to-apf-382881013.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

Idiots guiding idiots.

Fed Assets Reach Record $2.35 Trillion on Mortgage Purchases

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-20/fed-assets-reach-record-2-35-trillion-on-mortgage-purchases.html

No Comment.

Senate passes financial regulation bill

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/20/AR2010052003503.html

Stupid. Stupid. STUPID. This only hurts small businesses by reducing competition, of course, this is what the cronies in Washington want.

Google premieres Web television gamble

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64I67J20100521

I think this is the wave of the future.

Toyota to Acquire $50 Million Stake in Tesla Motors

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-20/toyota-to-acquire-50-million-stake-in-tesla-motors-update2-.html

Good Move? Bad Move?

‘Pink Panther’ lopes off with £85m of top art tucked under his arm

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article7131750.ece

Just interesting news.

Germany, France renew vows on multi-national bank tax

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE64J4H920100520

We have always been able to tax our way out of a recession, so this is great news and a great idea.

Problem bank list hits 775

http://money.cnn.com/2010/05/20/news/companies/fdic_list/

Can't we just bail all of them out?

Mortgage delinquencies drag on economic recovery

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_HOME_FORECLOSURES?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2010-05-19-10-00-42

But really, everything is recovering.

Singapore's GDP rockets 39% as Asian trade soars

http://www.smh.com.au/business/world-business/singapores-gdp-rockets-39-as-asian-trade-soars-20100520-vgwf.html

More good news for Asia

Taiwan Outpaces China as Growth Accelerates to 30-Year High

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601080&sid=aI8gdYSC_PHo

As long as China decides not to destroy the tiny little island, they should continue doing great.

More Americans Unexpectedly File Claims for Jobless Benefits

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601068&sid=aHZth4tfWaeA

There is a recovery, I promise, it is there. Everyone. Please Believe Me!!!!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Euro hits fresh four-year low vs. dollar in Asian trade

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/euro-hits-fresh-four-year-low-vs-dollar-in-asia-2010-05-18?reflink=MW_news_stmp

Good thing they bailed Greece out. I wonder if I can pre-order any Deutsche Marks?

Geithner Urges China to Ensure ‘Level Playing Field

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-18/geithner-urges-china-to-ensure-level-playing-field-update2-.html

Good old "never had a real job" Tim Geithner giving advice.

SEC proposes new rules for avoiding market plunges

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/SEC-proposes-new-rules-for-apf-1989906018.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

I have a crazy idea to decrease the craziness of the market. Don't run up Trillion Dollar deficits, stop passing regulations and raising taxes. I bet that would do more for the market than some stupid idea to stop trades on computers.

Goldman Sachs Advice Hands Clients Losses in 7 of 9 Top Trade

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-18/goldman-sachs-advice-hands-clients-losses-in-7-of-9-top-trades.html

Investing is a risk. It is a risk worth taking (in my opinion) but it is a risk. So everyone can get it wrong. Sucks for Goldman Though. And who is to say that those companies were not to be held on for a longer time frame anyway?

National Inflation Association New Charts Page

http://inflation.us/charts.html

The National Inflation Association recently updated their Charts page. I checked it out earlier today and the new page has much more comprehensive than their old page and has some really good information on it. Check it out if you have a chance.

Chanos sees more short sale restrictions in Europe

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN1816463620100518

Germany banned "naked" short selling today. Interesting read. I do love how everyone blames the market for being smarter than governments.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Treasury takes $1.6 billion loss on Chrysler loan

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Treasury-takes-16-billion-apf-581812658.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=main&asset=&ccode=

Good job government!

61 Senators Perpetuate "Too Big to Fail"

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2010/05/17/61-senators-perpetuate-too-big-to-fail.aspx?source=ihpsitth0000001

Hatch Voted for it. Bennett down, Hatch to go. Contact your delegate and get this clown out of office.

Why More Investors Like Gold

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Holmes/holmes_may172010A.html

The Revenue Limits of Tax and Spend

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704608104575217870728420184.html

Apparently the obvious has a name: Hauser's Law

IMF warns rich nations to cut debt

http://www.financialpost.com/story.html?id=3029003

I love how the only way to cut debt is to raise taxes. How about you cut government programs and spending? How crazy would that be?

Paulson Hedge Fund Adds to Bank of America Stake

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-17/paulson-hedge-fund-adds-to-bank-of-america-stake-update2-.html

The guy who made millions betting against the US Housing market, is now betting on one of the banks who had to have a bailout because of it. Interesting read on his reasoning, though the hedge fun he runs still owns more of a Gold Trust than anything else.

Will the iPad Hurt Mac Sales? Too Soon To Say

http://www.pcworld.com/article/196474/will_the_ipad_hurt_mac_sales_too_soon_to_say.html

Interesting read on how Apple might cannibalize its own market, but only time will tell.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Getting To Know Hedge-Like Mutual Funds

http://www.investopedia.com/articles/mutualfund/09/hedge-like-mutual-funds.asp

Interesting article, a different type of mutual fund.

Band-Aids For Everyone

May 12, 2010

Band-Aids For Everyone
By John Browne

As the health of much of the global economy weakens on a daily basis, political leadership increasingly ignores the source of the malady and instead focuses on short term "band-aid" remedies. These measures which may buy a few months, or years, of relative well being, will convince the public that problems have been solved and will thereby take pressure off governments to make the needed structural changes.

The recently announced $1 trillion EU bailout is a perfect example of this "band-aid" approach. The just concluded general election in the United Kingdom is another. The inconclusive UK result, which creates a Conservative/Liberal Democrat coalition, will be an unhappy, unquestionably temporary arrangement. Similarly, the EU bailout will continue to infuriate Northern Europeans, who may ultimately push for a breakup of the Union.

NuLabour (what the center-drifting Labour Party of Tony Blair has been branded) took a spectacular beating as a result of the clumsy stewardship of now former Prime Minister, Gordon Brown. Mr. Brown, whom I knew as a political bruiser in his early days in the House of Commons, had led Britain far down the road to economic ruin. As a very powerful Chancellor of the Exchequer under Tony Blair, he introduced many stealth taxes to finance a wave of high government spending. Seemingly operating as an unelected Prime Minister, he unleashed massive spending programs and interfered with UK banks in ways that worsened the effects of the financial crisis.

After Brown formally succeeded Blair in June of 2007, he soon became one of the most unpopular Prime Ministers in more than a century. The fact that David Cameron and the Conservatives were unable to capitalize on this weakness to secure a massive victory must be seen as a major failure.

Furthermore, Cameron was so anxious for personal power that he accepted a power sharing arrangement with the Liberal Democrats, a party with many key views to the left of NuLabour. This will lead to damaging compromises that, over time, will likely threaten both his parliamentary and grass roots support. Indeed cracks already are showing in the Conservative ranks.

The fragile coalition likely will have little appetite for the tough economic decisions that need to be made, including the adoption of austerity measures that must surely accompany any meaningful attempt to curb the unhealthy deficit. This political paralysis will leave the UK increasingly exposed to default and economically ruinous inflation. Those deemed to be responsible for any continued economic weakness will likely to be voted out in the next election, which could come as soon as 12 months. Labour's status as the opposition party may be brief.

In short, personal ambition has driven Cameron to fall into a major political trap. He would have been well advised to shun a coalition and leave the political costs of acute austerity and abject poverty to a NuLabour/Liberal Democrat coalition who would be cast out at the next election, leaving a much stronger and unencumbered Conservative Party in power for years to come.

The massive EU/ IMF band-aid to insulate default contagion will likely share a similar fate. The move, which will prevent the needed restructuring of the EU's "Club Med" countries, will destroy the Euro and unleash massive inflation. The furious spike in gold prices in the days after the EU capitulation indicates the depth and breadth of this consensus. Worse yet, in exchange for sowing the seeds for disunion, the bailout will achieve nothing significant.

The package may well insulate Greece from market default for some 18 months, but it will do little to change Greek habits. Even at almost a trillion dollars, it will prove insufficient to meet the likely cumulative needs of Portugal, Spain, Italy, Ireland, France and the UK.

Furthermore, despite their leaders' willingness to protect the Club Med and the cohesion of the EU, the German population is increasingly angry. Indeed, as a result of her support for the Greek bailout, Chancellor Merkel suffered a serious electoral setback on May 9th.

In short both the UK conservatives and the EU appear to have been so tempted by achieving or retaining political power within their failed economic models that they have fallen into electoral traps that likely will threaten their political survival within the coming year. They may have bought themselves some time, but little else.

GM wants to sell to more subprime buyers

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37179852/ns/business-autos/

Did we not learn our lesson from housing? Of course, when the independent lenders do not want to, why not have a company that is backed by the "full faith and credit of the US government" take those subprime loaners on. Is it possible to short GM if this gets approved, because seriously, this is just stupid.

Morgan Stanley is now ALSO being investigated by the Feds.

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2010/05/12/morgan-stanley-wishes-it-werent-like-goldman.aspx?source=ihpsitota0000001&lidx=8

Venezuela To Detail New Currency Trading Rules Monday

http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100516-702681.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

The glorious Chavez is leading the country into despair and economic ruin, but hey, he says he is "helping the poor", and he loves criticizing the rich. Well Mr. Chavez, they will leave unless you subsidize them. The country is failing, inflation is running rampant, so here he is, putting regulations to try and stem his own stupid decisions. It will not, the currency will still fail.

Australia Has ‘Room for Negotiation’ on Resource Tax

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-16/australia-has-room-for-negotiation-on-resource-tax-update1-.html

Hopefully the idiots who have never had a real job (politicians) come to their senses and do not kill the Golden Goose, but I sure do not have a ton of hope.

Don’t Tell Zimbabwe: Argentina Belongs to 25% Inflation Club

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601086&sid=aUcCa9tRT.7k

Argentina and Venezuela are leading the world for now.

Asian nations emerge from recession as stronger economic powers

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/13/AR2010051305534.html?sid=ST2010051400182


Whatever market share a company gains during a recession it rarely loses, I wonder if it will hold true for countries?

US faces one of biggest budget crunches in world – IMF

http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/finance/edmundconway/100005702/us-faces-one-of-biggest-budget-crunches-in-western-world-imf/

Vacation. Germans. Failure of decision making by 3rd parties

I spent the weekend with my wife in Salt Lake, so I took a break from updating the blog. We had a great time and needed the break as the summer season hits up this will be the last break I have before winter time. But back to the news of the day. The euro took at beating and will continue to as the Germans are now (finally) losing faith in the EU.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article7127621.ece

Various analysts saying the euro is finished.

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aqquuYOAN_sE

I think the euro is the icing on the currency cake, the real cake is going to be the dollar. The USA is in worse shape than Greece, and no one is paying attention to it. It is going to fall, that is for sure, as far as when I do not know, but it will have a final value of wallpaper.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Manufacturing sector keeps expanding (In New Zealand)

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10644651

Good news for them, maybe they do have more to offer than middle earth.

Meltup has been released.

http://inflation.us/videos.html

The National Inflation Association has released a new documentary that I found interesting. I enjoy these guys and agree with most of what they say. Though it is long, it is worth a look.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Buy Japanese!

http://blogs.forbes.com/greatspeculations/2010/05/13/im-buying-japanese-i-really-think-so/?partner=yahootix

Gamble

http://reason.com/archives/2010/05/13/leave-the-gamblers-alone

The government wanting to limit our freedoms once again. I've always considered buying stocks a gamble. So is buying a house, so is dating someone with a different background. It is a bit of a slippery slope. The gambling line is an arbitrary fixture right now with not definite criteria when all is considered. I believe people should be able to smoke if they want to. It's their right in the appropriate place, but now we see huge taxes and fees levied against these people. Morally I object to it, but when someone's freedoms are curtailed, I do not agree.

Motley

http://caps.fool.com/TickerRankings.aspx?filter=7&sortcol=38&sortdir=1&source=ifltnvsnv0000001

These are some of the highest rated picks from the Motley Fool. It pretty much shows you what other people are purchasing right now and is a helpful tool to know when to get into something. This site always has great articles about stocks you might be interested in.

Summary of the Guide to the Best Commodity ETFs

http://www.contrarianprofits.com/guide-to-the-best-commodity-etfs/summary-of-the-guide-to-the-best-commodity-etfs

In my humble opinion, I believe that soft commodity's are going to rise as food prices continue to go up. Food prices will not just go up because of inflation, but also because of the credit crunch as many farmers were unable to get loans for fertilizer (according to Jim Rogers). Any thoughts on the article above?

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Silver Wheaton Q1 Profit Nearly Triples, Yet Misses Estimate

http://www.rttnews.com/Content/CanadianNews.aspx?Id=1303455&SM=1

Sure wish I would have invested here.

Canada scores well in tax report

http://www.thestar.com/business/article/808475--canada-scores-well-in-tax-report

This is just sad.

Fed’s Comeback ‘Punch’ Wins Senate Fights on Rates, Oversight

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-13/fed-s-comeback-punch-wins-senate-fights-on-rates-oversight.html

The government passed legislation that can look into what the Fed did during 2008, but nothing during the future. I think this sums it up best: "I'm a bit confused by a world in which 96 senators think we need to know what the Fed did in 2008 and 2009 but only 37 think we'll need to know what the Fed did in 2012 and 2013."

Get Rid of the Department of Energy

http://www.downsizinggovernment.org/energy

Let us please cut 40 billion dollars in spending. The department of energy was originally founded to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. We are now, since the inception more dependent on foreign oil. Fail.

Unpaid Interns Are Exploited?

http://reason.com/archives/2010/05/06/unpaid-interns-are-exploited

Being that most of us are either college students or just finishing, I wonder what everyone thinks of this. I know that if I got an unpaid internship at Chevron right now I would start giving thanks to the great God above.

Gold

Just got done with the daily reckoning for today. Basically says that as with the great depression we are going to see gold prices soar. Bill may be on to something. In a world where paper money loses all intrinsic and supposed value, the real wealth resides in items that have actual value and purpose. Commodities will see a large rise in value over the next few years. You might have to sit on it for a while, but look to mining and other metal producers for big upswings.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Stock Pick from Inflation.us

http://inflation.us/cde.html

Ticker: CDE

Date of pick: 5/3/2010

Price as of 5/3/2010: $17.92

Senate Rejects Republican-backed Plan For Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac

"Virginia-based Freddie Mac reported a net loss for the first quarter that widened to $7.98 billion or $2.45 per share from $7.8 billion or $2.39 per share in the year-ago period on continued weakness in the housing market. The company also said it was pressing for an additional $10.6 billion in federal funding to stay afloat in the fragile credit environment."


http://www.dailymarkets.com/releases/2010/05/11/senate-rejects-republican-backed-plan-for-fannie-mae-freddie-mac/

Boy I really am glad that the government has rescued the housing market. It is due for a turnaround. All it needs is about 16 billion more dollars to stay afloat in this environment.

Boeing suspends C-17 production in wake of strike

http://www.presstelegram.com/news/ci_15063507

I don't know how many of you guys work for companies that provide a retirement, but I sure as hell don't. No wonder companies are leaving the USA for their manufacturing needs.

Toyota Cutting Production in the USA

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-11/toyota-plans-to-cut-domestic-production-capacity-20-by-2015.html

Bailout Is ‘Nail in the Coffin’ for Euro, Rogers Says

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-11/bailout-is-nail-in-the-coffin-for-euro-rogers-says-update1-.html

Like I said earlier, we need to plan a going away party for the Euro, we could use Euro Notes to make the pinata!

Basic Argument for why I believe home prices will fall

http://www.lewrockwell.com/schiff/schiff82.1.html

The Home Front Peter Schiff: Let the Housing Market Crash

http://www.usnews.com/money/blogs/the-home-front/2009/1/23/peter-schiff-let-the-housing-market-crash.html

My Favorite part of the interview: "Initially, Fannie and Freddie's mission was to help houses be affordable. Now, their mission is to keep housing prices expensive."

Good old Government just can not figure out what to do.

Euro slips on EU debt woes, Asian stocks soft

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6482ZL20100512

Good thing we bailed Greece out. I wonder when Santa "EU" Claus is going to do when all the other nations have to be bailed out.

China’s Bubble Risk Adds Pressure to Tighten Policy

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aWKM9PlTsmsw&pos=3

Monday, May 10, 2010

Fannie Lost $13.1 Billion In 1Q, Needs Another $8.4 Billion Infusion

http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/finance/fannie-mae-lost--billion-quarter/

More great news for the real estate market

Mortgage Holders Owing More Than Homes Are Worth Rise to 23%

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601206&sid=allDMOrP8m3M

Probably not a great time to be the real estate market.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

JP Morgan Price Manipulation in the Silver Market is being investigated

http://www.businessinsider.com/jpmorgan-silver-manipulation-investigation-2010-5

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/feds_probing_jpmorgan_trades_in_gZzMvWBqOJpB55M7Rh9vwM

Tick Tock Tick Tock

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Housing Bubble Explained

http://www.cato.org/pubs/journal/cj29n1/cj29n1-9.pdf

Alot of times with all of the stupid information as well as lack of economic understanding from college professors, people tend to blame capitalism for the crisis. "Wall Street got drunk" according to George W. Bush. This paper clearly explains how it was government involvement (primarily through the Federal Reserve, Congress, and Fiat money) that caused the mess and that we have not had capitalism for a long time.

Corporate Taxes in the USA

http://www.cato.org/pubs/tbb/tbb_62.pdf

Economically this is a huge portion of what is killing us. We are in a credit crunch, which consists of us not having enough capital saved, so what do we do? Tax corporations at a higher rate than the rest of the world. The world can leave us behind, and slowly but surely they will figure that out.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

New Austrialan Tax makes investing in other countries more attractive

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/mining-funds-already-going-offshore/story-e6frg8zx-1225862771468

If this was not the most obvious consequence to the 40% "supertax" I do not know what is. Good old Governments, always making such great decisions. I wonder how many companies will be left to take all of those resources "that all Australians own" in the next coming decades. The government can see that with it all sitting underground, it is going to make no one richer. They should have been happy with what they had. I love that in a great depression around the world the Australians decide to raise taxes on the main industry in their economy (not to mention the one industry that has essentially kept them out of participating in said depression/recession/coming inflationary hellhole). Thank you Mr. Rudd. You have truly inspired me.

Greece today, America Tomorrow

http://www.kitco.com/ind/Mladjenovic/may032010.html

Portugal Downgrade imminent

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE64421G20100505?type=marketsNews

Thank heaven all of this European taking away from USA debt, which is about ten times worse.