I’ve been contemplating whether I should expose the lavish corporate party that Merrill Lynch held on October 3rd of this year, just 2 weeks after they were forced to sell out to Bank of America. So I have a 3 part blog this week, Merrill Lynch Exposed, Regulation, and The Direct Market Connection to Republian and Democratic Presidents, among the weekly updates.
The lavish corporate party was held at Starr Pass Resort in Tucson, Arizona. I was there, by coincidence. My beautiful fiancé and I had decided to do a “date night,” and I had wanted to see the resort that was on the outskirts of the town I lived in. I’ll let the news channels dig up the specifics on what the lavish party included but I wanted you to know who broke the story (if it breaks at all). Merrill Lynch didn’t go bankrupt, but they might as well have. Here’s an excerpt from Wikipedia.org (my favorite information website).
Three days later, the company froze hiring and revealed that they had charged almost $30 billion in losses to their subsidiary in the United Kingdom, exempting them from taxes in that country.
Bloomberg reported in September 2008 that Merrill Lynch had lost $51.8 billion in mortgage-backed securities as part of the subprime mortgage crisis.
Mr. John Thain, the former CEO of Merrill Lynch, by the way, to make a point, to highlight, “Based on a formula by the Associated Press, in 2007 Thain was the best-paid CEO among the S&P 500 companies, receiving $83.1 million,” (according to his page on Wikipedia.org). He killed that company, and most of shareholder value. Mr. Thain’s pay is 0.16% of the $51.8 billion in losses. Now that may not seem like a big percentage but when you think that his salary is 1/10th of almost 2% of the total losses for which he presided over, that makes me mad. Everyone hears about what Warren Buffet is saying and doing because he has a history of world-class level investing returns, so what about the bad ones? Well, Mr. John Thain is now a big whopper at Bank of America and he’s in charge of a few things. So, if I can give you any investment advice in this article it would be. . . DO NOT BUY BANK OF AMERICA STOCK.
It makes me mad as hell that Big Whoppers can drive age-old companies into bankruptcy but have no repercussions. This is why we need more regulation. Regulation protects the investor because obviously the boards do not. I think that the fact that John Thain works for ANYONE now is proof enough that the boards do not protect the investor. Regulation can come in a number of ways but most likely this time it will come in more transparency. The Bush theory on regulation is that there should be none, and that businesses should be trusted. I’m willing to say that theory didn’t work and that Joe The Plumber is paying the price. I’m going to say this, and I hope it’s true, Bush is the worst president of our lifetime. I hope it’s true because that means the worst is almost past us. So I didn’t have much to say about regulation but let’s just agree that there needs to be more. The segue from here is to show the historical market returns for Democratic and Republican presidents.
There’s no particular reason, but I’m choosing to start with the year 1953.
REPUBLICAN
1953-1961: DOW Industrial Average +101%
President: Dwight D. Eisenhower
Vice President: Richard Nixon
DEMOCRAT
1961-1963: DOW Industrial Average +6.4%
President: John F. Kennedy
Vice President: Lyndon B. Johnson
DEMOCRAT
1963-1969: DOW Industrial Average +44.2%
President: Lyndon B. Johnson
Vice President: Hebert Humphery
REPUBLICAN
1969-1974: DOW Industrial Average -10.1%
President: Richard Nixon
Vice President: Spiro Agnew
REPUBLICAN
1974-1977: DOW Industrial Average+19.8%
President: Gerald Ford
Vice President: Nelson Rockefeller
DEMOCRAT
1977-1981: DOW Industrial Average +0.0%
President: Jimmy Carter
Vice President: Walter Mondale
REPUBLICAN
1981-1989: DOW Industrial Average +129%
President: Ronald Regan
Vice President: George H.W. Bush
REPUBLICAN
1989-1993: DOW Industrial Average +46%
President: George H.W. Bush
Vice President: Dan Quale
DEMOCRAT
1993-2001: DOW Industrial Average +214%
President: Bill Clinton
Vice President: Al Gore
REPUBLICAN
2001-2009: DOW Industrial Average -21.6%
President: George W. Bush
Vice President: Dick Cheney
Tally:
REPUBLICANS: +264.1%
DEMOCRATS: +264.6%
My numbers are by no means scientific. My prediction is that after Obama’s 8 years in office, the Democrats will have a big lead on the Republicans. Stay strong and invest for the long term!!!
On the Political front:
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by 16% - STILL (since my Oct. 1st call)
My prediction for the elections. . . “no more fear mongering.”
Disgraced Politician of the Week
This week’s honor goes to Alaskan Senator Ted Stevens. He’s the longest serving Republican in Alaskan government, the newest being Palin. Senator Stevens is famous for wanting to censor the internet, satellite radio, and premium TV channels. So what he’s saying is that he’s all for guns, but not for freedom of speech. His home renovations came from an oil field research company, of which he did not claim on his taxes. Also, “In September, The Hill reported that Stevens had "steered millions of federal dollars to a sportfishing industry group founded by Bob Penney, a longtime friend". In 1998, Stevens invested $15,000 in a Utah land deal managed by Penney; in 2004, Stevens sold his share of the property for $150,000.” Glad he got caught, he’s a scumbag, shithead.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Monday Evening Back-up Quarterback
Sorry for the lateness of this blog. The Bears had a bye week this week so I was not as interested in the NFL this week. HOWEVER- Mike Singletary had the best post game news conference of the year. I liked it so much, I'm posting it now:
My fantasy football team won because the Reggie Wayne Campaign was completely unproductive tonight. I was up 7 points, so if he had caught a touchdown, I most likely would've lost. 3 catches for 29 yards is a beautiful stat line.
The Phillies/Rays game was postponed tonight, so the World Series will not be decided tonight. They will resume tomorrow and play the game from the 6th inning with a 2-2 score. I guess it's better to decide the World Series during regular weather, but it was fun to watch them roll around in the mud for an inning-and-a-half.
Besides all that, here's a non-sports story. Leaving my future in-laws place tonight, I was driving down Madison Ave in Carmichael, CA. I was being tailgated by a beat up Ford sedan. I tapped my breaks a couple times, but they would not stop. We finally got to a light where they wanted to turn left and they shot ahead of me and screeched their brakes at a red light (that I'm not sure they saw initially.) I shot them a bad glance, and they were giggling. I debated reporting their license plate number, but low and behold there was a Highway Patrol car right behind me once the other car had gone left.
I figured he would head that direction, but NO. He stuck right behind me, basically tailgating me as well. He drove behind me for about 3 blocks, then went around me and cut me off to get ahead of me. What kind of an alternate universe is this?! I'm getting tormented by stupid drivers, one of which is supposed to lay down the law. The Highway Patrol in that area is awful and they need to seriously get re-trained as to how to uphold the law.
Other headlines:
NBA starts this week
Titans rule, Colts drool
Saw V, really similar to Saw II through IV
Bay Area Football Worse Than Ever
Big Ben Destroyed By The Giants
Cowboys Beat Bucs, Prove Nothing
Heroes Is Still An Awful TV Show
My fantasy football team won because the Reggie Wayne Campaign was completely unproductive tonight. I was up 7 points, so if he had caught a touchdown, I most likely would've lost. 3 catches for 29 yards is a beautiful stat line.
The Phillies/Rays game was postponed tonight, so the World Series will not be decided tonight. They will resume tomorrow and play the game from the 6th inning with a 2-2 score. I guess it's better to decide the World Series during regular weather, but it was fun to watch them roll around in the mud for an inning-and-a-half.
Besides all that, here's a non-sports story. Leaving my future in-laws place tonight, I was driving down Madison Ave in Carmichael, CA. I was being tailgated by a beat up Ford sedan. I tapped my breaks a couple times, but they would not stop. We finally got to a light where they wanted to turn left and they shot ahead of me and screeched their brakes at a red light (that I'm not sure they saw initially.) I shot them a bad glance, and they were giggling. I debated reporting their license plate number, but low and behold there was a Highway Patrol car right behind me once the other car had gone left.
I figured he would head that direction, but NO. He stuck right behind me, basically tailgating me as well. He drove behind me for about 3 blocks, then went around me and cut me off to get ahead of me. What kind of an alternate universe is this?! I'm getting tormented by stupid drivers, one of which is supposed to lay down the law. The Highway Patrol in that area is awful and they need to seriously get re-trained as to how to uphold the law.
Other headlines:
NBA starts this week
Titans rule, Colts drool
Saw V, really similar to Saw II through IV
Bay Area Football Worse Than Ever
Big Ben Destroyed By The Giants
Cowboys Beat Bucs, Prove Nothing
Heroes Is Still An Awful TV Show
Friday, October 24, 2008
Call if you're going to be late...
Today's travel tip is that if you're going to arrive at a location after dark, to make sure that the hostel/guesthouse/hotel knows exactly what time you're going to arrive. This lesson was learned the hard way in a cute little town I had heard about in Italy - Cinqueterre.This town is adorable and set overlooking the ocean. When we were there it rained most of the time - but that didn't damper our spirits or plans. We still managed to eat our daily quota of pizza and gelato while there. We took a hike along the coast to visit all 5 little towns - though we still agreed that our small town of Riomaggiore was the best. We spent late nights visiting with other travelers in the local bars and we laid out on the huge boulders trying to sunbathe when the clouds broke. All in all, I recommend this as a stop, relax and eat - just don't come into town too late... or my mom always says - call if you're going to be late...
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
13 Days Until the Election, Many more until the Inauguration
Another Stimulus Package? Is that because the $700 Billion Bailout Package doesn’t do anything for the average person? I wonder. Was I right? I think so, so where’s my check? The frustration is setting in but nevertheless, we must maintain our investing strategies and believe in our government that they will bail out the upper class and their cohorts, and that in tern will help US investments. If you don’t make enough money to have investments, I’m sorry to leave you out but that’s what your government is doing for you.
We have less than 2 weeks until the next presidential election and I bet you’re still asking yourself who I am voting for? Still, the best candidate. While Barak has suspended his campaign to be with his ill grandmother, John McCain has filled in for him, reporting on Barak’s last moves this week. Here’s what I see. . .John McCain is somehow equating the notion of liking 2 baseball teams with political flip-flopping. I heard this morning that Senator Biden said in a speech months ago that if Barak was chosen as the candidate and eventually elected president he will be tested by terrorists within 6 months of his taking office. The Republican Party has moved that statement to the forefront of their campaign. My interpretation is, does that scare you? The Republicans are saying if you vote for Barak, it’s imminent that we will undergo another terrorist attack. I don’t know about you but I can’t have another 8 years of fear, I might just move to Europe. Since when were Americans so scared of everything? One last note on the elections, I also heard this morning that new voters account for approximately 11%, I am so glad that they’re not talking about the deciding vote being the grannies and granddaddies out there, I think that’s why McCain is so mad. The youth in America have more to lose than McCain and the other retirees.
Based on the last 6 presidential elections you would have thought that things in America were so cut and dry. You’re either Democrat or Republican. I’d like to highlight one thing to think about when you vote. . . It wasn’t always the way it is today. Electoral Map from 1924 (wikipedia)
We have less than 2 weeks until the next presidential election and I bet you’re still asking yourself who I am voting for? Still, the best candidate. While Barak has suspended his campaign to be with his ill grandmother, John McCain has filled in for him, reporting on Barak’s last moves this week. Here’s what I see. . .John McCain is somehow equating the notion of liking 2 baseball teams with political flip-flopping. I heard this morning that Senator Biden said in a speech months ago that if Barak was chosen as the candidate and eventually elected president he will be tested by terrorists within 6 months of his taking office. The Republican Party has moved that statement to the forefront of their campaign. My interpretation is, does that scare you? The Republicans are saying if you vote for Barak, it’s imminent that we will undergo another terrorist attack. I don’t know about you but I can’t have another 8 years of fear, I might just move to Europe. Since when were Americans so scared of everything? One last note on the elections, I also heard this morning that new voters account for approximately 11%, I am so glad that they’re not talking about the deciding vote being the grannies and granddaddies out there, I think that’s why McCain is so mad. The youth in America have more to lose than McCain and the other retirees.
Based on the last 6 presidential elections you would have thought that things in America were so cut and dry. You’re either Democrat or Republican. I’d like to highlight one thing to think about when you vote. . . It wasn’t always the way it is today. Electoral Map from 1924 (wikipedia)
On the Political front:
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by 16% - STILL (since my Oct. 1st call)
My prediction for the elections. . . “no more fear mongering.”
Disgraced Politician of the Week
U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney, embroiled in an adultery scandal and a tight race for re-election, admitted last week to having at least two affairs but insisted he broke no laws and will not resign. The first-term Democrat conceded that one of the affairs began as he was running on a family values platform to replace Mark Foley. Why won’t our leaders and politicians just tell the truth? I don’t care that he had an affair, that’s his choice, but if he’s running on a ‘family values’ platform, I just don’t see how that’s honorable.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Sports News From the Weekend
It's a good thing I waited to make this entry because I can start by mentioning the 49ers coaching situation:
Mike Nolan is out, Mike Singletary is in: Mike Nolan's disastrous tenure as Niners' head coach is over. They've been a non-factor in the NFL for many years now, and Nolan has done nothing to change that. In fact, his manner of dodging questions at press conferences and making inept in-game decisions has only fueled the fire of the Niners' futility. Luckily, he's being replaced by one of my childhood heroes- Mike Singletary. If nothing else, this guy is going have awesome pregame and halftime speechs. I would hate to be a player making a mistake and have Singletary staring me down. Direct gaze from his eyes can make small woodland creatures scatter.
It is interesting that they did not choose Mike Martz to take over. He has been running the offense and is a more experienced (some vs. none) coach in the NFL than Singletary. I'm also surprised they did not wait until the end of the season. I feel like Mike Holmgren might be available to bring back to the Bay Area. The other option might be Bill Cowher, but he has no shot at the job because his name is not "Mike."
Raiders beat the Jets - The Raiders squeak out a victory over the Brett Favre led Jets. I couldn't help but cheer against them at the end because of head coach Tom Cable calling a time out right before the Jets kicked a possible game tying field goal. Jets kicker Jay Feely missed the kick, but got a re-do because of the Raiders calling timeout. He, of course, made the second kick and sent it into overtime. I wish teams would stop such shinanigans, but I know they won't.
Sebastian Janikowski ended up kicking a 57 yard field goal in overtime to with the game for the Raiders. I text messaged my friend, Phil, to congratulate him on the Raiders win and this is what he had to say: "F*** ya! They must have given [Janikowski] double the amount of blow than he normally does before a kick..." Truer words may have never been spoken.
The Rays are going to the World Series - That's cool. I like the players on the team. But come on, it's hard for me to take all of these expansion teams seriously. If the team didn't exist when I was born, I lose a little bit of interest if they make it to the World Series. D'Backs, Marlins, Rockies, Rays and I'll even throw in the Nationals. I can't believe the first four I named have won or at least gone to the World Series. As a Cubs fan, am I jealous? You bet I am. (Side note: How great would a Cubs/Yankees World Series have been in 2003? Can you say HIGHEST RATINGS EVER?)
So far the Pats are playing well and up 13-0 in the 2nd quarter. If Tom Brady was playing, this game would be over already.
Mike Nolan is out, Mike Singletary is in: Mike Nolan's disastrous tenure as Niners' head coach is over. They've been a non-factor in the NFL for many years now, and Nolan has done nothing to change that. In fact, his manner of dodging questions at press conferences and making inept in-game decisions has only fueled the fire of the Niners' futility. Luckily, he's being replaced by one of my childhood heroes- Mike Singletary. If nothing else, this guy is going have awesome pregame and halftime speechs. I would hate to be a player making a mistake and have Singletary staring me down. Direct gaze from his eyes can make small woodland creatures scatter.
It is interesting that they did not choose Mike Martz to take over. He has been running the offense and is a more experienced (some vs. none) coach in the NFL than Singletary. I'm also surprised they did not wait until the end of the season. I feel like Mike Holmgren might be available to bring back to the Bay Area. The other option might be Bill Cowher, but he has no shot at the job because his name is not "Mike."
Raiders beat the Jets - The Raiders squeak out a victory over the Brett Favre led Jets. I couldn't help but cheer against them at the end because of head coach Tom Cable calling a time out right before the Jets kicked a possible game tying field goal. Jets kicker Jay Feely missed the kick, but got a re-do because of the Raiders calling timeout. He, of course, made the second kick and sent it into overtime. I wish teams would stop such shinanigans, but I know they won't.
Sebastian Janikowski ended up kicking a 57 yard field goal in overtime to with the game for the Raiders. I text messaged my friend, Phil, to congratulate him on the Raiders win and this is what he had to say: "F*** ya! They must have given [Janikowski] double the amount of blow than he normally does before a kick..." Truer words may have never been spoken.
The Rays are going to the World Series - That's cool. I like the players on the team. But come on, it's hard for me to take all of these expansion teams seriously. If the team didn't exist when I was born, I lose a little bit of interest if they make it to the World Series. D'Backs, Marlins, Rockies, Rays and I'll even throw in the Nationals. I can't believe the first four I named have won or at least gone to the World Series. As a Cubs fan, am I jealous? You bet I am. (Side note: How great would a Cubs/Yankees World Series have been in 2003? Can you say HIGHEST RATINGS EVER?)
So far the Pats are playing well and up 13-0 in the 2nd quarter. If Tom Brady was playing, this game would be over already.
Under Construction!
Don't worry- today I'm going to write the entry during Monday Night Football- we'll talk about the Rays, the Raiders, and other things that start with "R."
Friday, October 17, 2008
20,000 people, 95% women!
This weekend I will be taking on the Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco. To prepare, I've been resting as much as possible and carbo-loading, which in my view, includes Chocolate Satin Pie from Marie Callendar's and lots of Halloween candy. There is the requisite pasta thrown in there as well and plenty of protein to start the week, but chocolate is a necessary part of the training regimen. For today's travel blog, I have a few fun spots in San Francisco and a bit of the marathon thrown in there too.
If you're in San Francisco to view or run the marathon this weekend you can expect 20,000 runners and 95% of them are women! Men are allowed to run, but the primary registrants are still women. If you are a man, would you want to run this marathon? If you did, you could expect a coat check at mile 2.5 so that you don't have to shiver in the pre-dawn hours while at the starting line, 3 stations with a Luna energy chew, 2 with a Luna energy bar, lots of drinks, a Ghirardelli Chocolate stop, a stop with oranges, a couple stops for ailing feet and when you finish there is the expected t-shirt (in a lovely technical fabric) but the highlight really is the firemen, in tuxedos, with silver platters you that hand you something to hang around your neck. No, it's not a medal. It's a Tiffany's necklace. With the blue box. Too cute. And then free massages after. At the expo before the race there are manicures, massages and spa services. Of course, there is that 26.2 miles (map) to be covered in the middle of all this (or 13.1 if you go for the half marathon), but with all this fun, it makes the pain go down a little easier.
While I will be running through Golden Gate Park, I'm not sure where the course takes us, though I hope it's past the bison. I was surprised the first time I found them while cheering on a friend, the amazing Heather Gibson, as she raced there, but I thought it was a great unexpected section of the park! Another cool place that we'll be near on our run is the wave organ. It's one of those locations that if you didn't know it was there you could walk past it a hundred times and miss it. It's out on the water and as the waves come in, the pipes make music. It's a pretty unique design and another place to sit and enjoy the sailboats and the water.
If you're in SF on Sunday, come and cheer me and my 20,000 fellow runners on!
If you're in San Francisco to view or run the marathon this weekend you can expect 20,000 runners and 95% of them are women! Men are allowed to run, but the primary registrants are still women. If you are a man, would you want to run this marathon? If you did, you could expect a coat check at mile 2.5 so that you don't have to shiver in the pre-dawn hours while at the starting line, 3 stations with a Luna energy chew, 2 with a Luna energy bar, lots of drinks, a Ghirardelli Chocolate stop, a stop with oranges, a couple stops for ailing feet and when you finish there is the expected t-shirt (in a lovely technical fabric) but the highlight really is the firemen, in tuxedos, with silver platters you that hand you something to hang around your neck. No, it's not a medal. It's a Tiffany's necklace. With the blue box. Too cute. And then free massages after. At the expo before the race there are manicures, massages and spa services. Of course, there is that 26.2 miles (map) to be covered in the middle of all this (or 13.1 if you go for the half marathon), but with all this fun, it makes the pain go down a little easier.
While I will be running through Golden Gate Park, I'm not sure where the course takes us, though I hope it's past the bison. I was surprised the first time I found them while cheering on a friend, the amazing Heather Gibson, as she raced there, but I thought it was a great unexpected section of the park! Another cool place that we'll be near on our run is the wave organ. It's one of those locations that if you didn't know it was there you could walk past it a hundred times and miss it. It's out on the water and as the waves come in, the pipes make music. It's a pretty unique design and another place to sit and enjoy the sailboats and the water.
If you're in SF on Sunday, come and cheer me and my 20,000 fellow runners on!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Win Ben Stein's Money
Some people read the NY Times, some the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), some the SF Chronicle, some the Vacaville Reporter, and some Yahoo! news, you too should find your favorite columnist. If yours truely is your favorite columnist than read on my friends and I will continue to amuse you. I read most of the columns on Yahoo! Finance and that's where you will find my favorite columnists; Ben Stein, Robert Kiyosaki, and more recently Charles Wheelan.
My take on Ben Stein. . . I like Ben because he’s old. Being old has it’s benefits, he’s been around, seen a lot, and obviously the guy knows how to invest. I like Ben because he’s smart. Would you risk your daily pay on a TV show? I like Ben because he knows how political choices impact investments. And, last but not least, I like Ben because when it comes to investing, he’s a permabull. Because of his attitude towards investing he remains cool headed when emotions on Wall Street run high. One of my favorite adages is, “Cool heads will prevail.”
My take on Robert Kiyosaki. . . He wrote a book called “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” where he chronicles the choices that his two dad’s made in regards to investing. I have not read this book yet, and though I’m a fan of his, truthfully, honestly, I’m not lying to you. . . I probably won’t get around to reading his book. I like Robert because he knows the ins and outs of Real Estate investment. It is important to know basic real estate investing strategies and how that fits into your overall investment techniques and goals. I like Robert because he understands the indirect opportunities of investing (the positive consequences of investing in something that you may not have expected). While investing, most list the negative possibilities when taking a risk by investing your money. It is just as important to understand that not taking a risk (by investing your money) is just as costly a mistake. Robert Kiyosaki typically writes about the unexpected with his investments, which is valuable insight.
My take on Charles Wheelan. . . He wrote a book which I have not read. Infact, the only reason to which I’ve decided to include him is because I read an article he wrote a week ago which had such an impression on me that I decided he’s one of my new favorites. It’s a very good article http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/economist/111589 . I’ll put him on my watch list next to the crumbling banks.
Those are three of my favorite columnists which I trust to provide cool headed investment advice.
I still don’t believe that the Bailout Package is going to work. My opinion could partially be due to the fact that it’s called a Bailout Package and not exactly helping anyone. I want the American people to win, so I’m asking you to join me in a sedition against the banks. Here’s how it’s all going to go down. . . when the government bails banks out, the “credit freeze” will thaw, and banks will lend again. Here’s what we can do as a society to send a message to the banks, pay for everything with money that you’ve saved. It’s that easy. I realize that you have to borrow money to purchase a house and that’s the only thing that I will let you borrow money for. The banks in America have wronged you for too long, now it’s payback time. Live within your means and they will feel the pain!!! Pay your credit cards down, save money, earn some interest and buy only the things that you feel are worthy of your hard earned dollars. Viva Los Americans!
On the Political front:
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by 16% - STILL (since my Oct. 1st call)
My prediction for the elections. . . “cool heads will prevail.”
This week’s Disgraced Politician of the Week is John Edwards. John Edwards lied about allegations that he had an extramarital affair even though it was true. The only reason that I bring him up is because had he won the Democratic Primary Election, things would look very different with less than a month left in elections. Palin would have been a shoe-in for vice president. If I were a Democrat, I would be extremely angry that John Edwards risked the most important election in our history just because he wouldn’t come clean. He’s a disgrace. If you’d like to know more, go here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Edwards .
My take on Ben Stein. . . I like Ben because he’s old. Being old has it’s benefits, he’s been around, seen a lot, and obviously the guy knows how to invest. I like Ben because he’s smart. Would you risk your daily pay on a TV show? I like Ben because he knows how political choices impact investments. And, last but not least, I like Ben because when it comes to investing, he’s a permabull. Because of his attitude towards investing he remains cool headed when emotions on Wall Street run high. One of my favorite adages is, “Cool heads will prevail.”
My take on Robert Kiyosaki. . . He wrote a book called “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” where he chronicles the choices that his two dad’s made in regards to investing. I have not read this book yet, and though I’m a fan of his, truthfully, honestly, I’m not lying to you. . . I probably won’t get around to reading his book. I like Robert because he knows the ins and outs of Real Estate investment. It is important to know basic real estate investing strategies and how that fits into your overall investment techniques and goals. I like Robert because he understands the indirect opportunities of investing (the positive consequences of investing in something that you may not have expected). While investing, most list the negative possibilities when taking a risk by investing your money. It is just as important to understand that not taking a risk (by investing your money) is just as costly a mistake. Robert Kiyosaki typically writes about the unexpected with his investments, which is valuable insight.
My take on Charles Wheelan. . . He wrote a book which I have not read. Infact, the only reason to which I’ve decided to include him is because I read an article he wrote a week ago which had such an impression on me that I decided he’s one of my new favorites. It’s a very good article http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/economist/111589 . I’ll put him on my watch list next to the crumbling banks.
Those are three of my favorite columnists which I trust to provide cool headed investment advice.
I still don’t believe that the Bailout Package is going to work. My opinion could partially be due to the fact that it’s called a Bailout Package and not exactly helping anyone. I want the American people to win, so I’m asking you to join me in a sedition against the banks. Here’s how it’s all going to go down. . . when the government bails banks out, the “credit freeze” will thaw, and banks will lend again. Here’s what we can do as a society to send a message to the banks, pay for everything with money that you’ve saved. It’s that easy. I realize that you have to borrow money to purchase a house and that’s the only thing that I will let you borrow money for. The banks in America have wronged you for too long, now it’s payback time. Live within your means and they will feel the pain!!! Pay your credit cards down, save money, earn some interest and buy only the things that you feel are worthy of your hard earned dollars. Viva Los Americans!
On the Political front:
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by 16% - STILL (since my Oct. 1st call)
My prediction for the elections. . . “cool heads will prevail.”
This week’s Disgraced Politician of the Week is John Edwards. John Edwards lied about allegations that he had an extramarital affair even though it was true. The only reason that I bring him up is because had he won the Democratic Primary Election, things would look very different with less than a month left in elections. Palin would have been a shoe-in for vice president. If I were a Democrat, I would be extremely angry that John Edwards risked the most important election in our history just because he wouldn’t come clean. He’s a disgrace. If you’d like to know more, go here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Edwards .
Monday, October 13, 2008
Squib Kicks
This week of NFL action had multiple games come down to last second field goals, touchdowns, and an overtime.
Bears/Falcons - This was a crazy game. To be honest, the Bears were completely outplayed and still almost won the game. They were as good at stopping the Falcons at third downs as Hugh Grant is at stopping himself from cheating on Elizabeth Hurley (and we know how that worked out.) Yet, Kyle Orton led the Bears down field and scored with 11 seconds left in the game. They squib kicked to the Falcons, which was as good of an idea as fourth installment of Indiana Jones. The Falcons subsequently got the ball on their own 45 yard line. With 6 seconds left, Matt Ryan completed a 25 yard pass to Michael Jenkins out of bounds with 1 second left on the clock. Jason Elam kicked a field goal and that was that. Game over, Bears.
As a side note, former Ravens coach, Brian Billick, was announcing the game and he called Kyle Orton "Kyle Boller" at least three times. I wonder if Billick wakes up out of a nightmare, sweaty, yelling "BOLLER!!!" I bet he does.
Houston/Miami - The Texans won their first game of the year by beating the Dolphins on a last second QB sneak by Matt Schaub. I didn't watch the game, but what the heck is up with QB's named "Matt" getting it done today?
Minnesota/Detroit - Vikings beat the Lions on a last second field goals. This leads to two questions: How the hell are the Vikings tied for first in the NFC North? (ANSWER: That division is awful.) AND How on earth did this game get decided on a last second field goal? (ANSWER: Both the Vikings and Lions are also awful, but the Lions are just a little bit more of a pathetic football team than the Vikings.)
Cowboys/Cardinals - Easily the best part of the game was when Cardinals' coach, Ken Wisenhunt, called timeout right before the Cowboys last second field goal. The Cards blocked the field goal and were running it back for a touchdown as the refs blew the whistle and informed everyone that the Cardinals had called timeout. Cowboys try again, and kicker Nick Folk makes the kick. For a split second, I actually wanted the Cowboys to win. That wore off quickly and I'm glad they lost on a blocked punt returned to the end zone. The Cardinals are for real (pause... NOT! Their division also is awful!)
Bay Area Teams - give me a reason to talk about you, and I will. Until then, you're out of the blog. Do something about it Al Davis or Mike Nolan.
Baseball is trucking along with the ALCS at 1-1 and the NLCS at 2-1 (advantage Phillies.) I really don't care who wins, I guess maybe the Phillies or Rays, but let's be honest, I can hardly watch baseball without seeing flashbacks of the Cubs kicking the ball all ove the infield. Ahhh... I just felt a shiver up my spine...
Bears/Falcons - This was a crazy game. To be honest, the Bears were completely outplayed and still almost won the game. They were as good at stopping the Falcons at third downs as Hugh Grant is at stopping himself from cheating on Elizabeth Hurley (and we know how that worked out.) Yet, Kyle Orton led the Bears down field and scored with 11 seconds left in the game. They squib kicked to the Falcons, which was as good of an idea as fourth installment of Indiana Jones. The Falcons subsequently got the ball on their own 45 yard line. With 6 seconds left, Matt Ryan completed a 25 yard pass to Michael Jenkins out of bounds with 1 second left on the clock. Jason Elam kicked a field goal and that was that. Game over, Bears.
As a side note, former Ravens coach, Brian Billick, was announcing the game and he called Kyle Orton "Kyle Boller" at least three times. I wonder if Billick wakes up out of a nightmare, sweaty, yelling "BOLLER!!!" I bet he does.
Houston/Miami - The Texans won their first game of the year by beating the Dolphins on a last second QB sneak by Matt Schaub. I didn't watch the game, but what the heck is up with QB's named "Matt" getting it done today?
Minnesota/Detroit - Vikings beat the Lions on a last second field goals. This leads to two questions: How the hell are the Vikings tied for first in the NFC North? (ANSWER: That division is awful.) AND How on earth did this game get decided on a last second field goal? (ANSWER: Both the Vikings and Lions are also awful, but the Lions are just a little bit more of a pathetic football team than the Vikings.)
Cowboys/Cardinals - Easily the best part of the game was when Cardinals' coach, Ken Wisenhunt, called timeout right before the Cowboys last second field goal. The Cards blocked the field goal and were running it back for a touchdown as the refs blew the whistle and informed everyone that the Cardinals had called timeout. Cowboys try again, and kicker Nick Folk makes the kick. For a split second, I actually wanted the Cowboys to win. That wore off quickly and I'm glad they lost on a blocked punt returned to the end zone. The Cardinals are for real (pause... NOT! Their division also is awful!)
Bay Area Teams - give me a reason to talk about you, and I will. Until then, you're out of the blog. Do something about it Al Davis or Mike Nolan.
Baseball is trucking along with the ALCS at 1-1 and the NLCS at 2-1 (advantage Phillies.) I really don't care who wins, I guess maybe the Phillies or Rays, but let's be honest, I can hardly watch baseball without seeing flashbacks of the Cubs kicking the ball all ove the infield. Ahhh... I just felt a shiver up my spine...
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Apples and Wine.
Recently I celebrated my 28th birthday and decided to celebrate with a little trip to Apple Hill! I haven't been back there in years, but it was still as cool as I remembered. About 1 hour east of Sacramento, it is a collection of wineries, apple orchards, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms set in the foothills that are just beginning to change colors for fall.
High Hill Ranch is one of the classic stops and our starting point. The parking lots here are the apple orchards, which I found to be a bit odd to weave through the trees to find a suitable spot - but that being said, it was a great scenic, shaded spot and most organized. From there, we grabbed a blanket and our picnic lunch from the back of the car and set off to find a shady spot by the fish pond where we ate our sandwiches while enjoying the scenery and being entertained by the kids all around us, the trout pond and the caged wolf. Since we were right in the middle of all the vendors, some of our party supplemented their meal with some apple beer, which was really just some apple cider and Bud Light.
From there we returned our stuff to the car (a less than 5 minute walk) and then walked past the Fudge Factory (without stopping for chocolate - shocking, I know) and past the pumpkin past to the main event - winetasting at Madrona Vineyards. I had been recommended this place by a friend and it was delicious and charming! The place was packed, the varieties of wine list long and the building cozy. The winemaker was out, his hands stained with purple, and he explained how and why this winery served their reds before their whites. Very interesting and at the end of the tasting, I agreed that it was a good switch - one that I hadn't ever heard of before. If you're up there, try the Fiore if you like sweet wines - it tastes just like peaches! Theo, the local cat, was nowhere to be seen - but hopefully we'll run into him on one of the next trips up there. And there will be a next time - this place is wonderful!
From there some of our party went to Abel's which our group selected as the best pie place in Apple Hill, while others stayed in High Hill to buy bags full of apples (I picked up 5 pounds to dip in some homemade caramel I was going to make at home), apple fritters, apple pie and sample the apple cider before heading back down the hill.
By the end of the day I had my fill of apples, but after having been away for a week, I'm ready to head back but I haven't explored much except for those places listed above - any recommendations for other Apple Hill places to try out?
High Hill Ranch is one of the classic stops and our starting point. The parking lots here are the apple orchards, which I found to be a bit odd to weave through the trees to find a suitable spot - but that being said, it was a great scenic, shaded spot and most organized. From there, we grabbed a blanket and our picnic lunch from the back of the car and set off to find a shady spot by the fish pond where we ate our sandwiches while enjoying the scenery and being entertained by the kids all around us, the trout pond and the caged wolf. Since we were right in the middle of all the vendors, some of our party supplemented their meal with some apple beer, which was really just some apple cider and Bud Light.
From there we returned our stuff to the car (a less than 5 minute walk) and then walked past the Fudge Factory (without stopping for chocolate - shocking, I know) and past the pumpkin past to the main event - winetasting at Madrona Vineyards. I had been recommended this place by a friend and it was delicious and charming! The place was packed, the varieties of wine list long and the building cozy. The winemaker was out, his hands stained with purple, and he explained how and why this winery served their reds before their whites. Very interesting and at the end of the tasting, I agreed that it was a good switch - one that I hadn't ever heard of before. If you're up there, try the Fiore if you like sweet wines - it tastes just like peaches! Theo, the local cat, was nowhere to be seen - but hopefully we'll run into him on one of the next trips up there. And there will be a next time - this place is wonderful!
From there some of our party went to Abel's which our group selected as the best pie place in Apple Hill, while others stayed in High Hill to buy bags full of apples (I picked up 5 pounds to dip in some homemade caramel I was going to make at home), apple fritters, apple pie and sample the apple cider before heading back down the hill.
By the end of the day I had my fill of apples, but after having been away for a week, I'm ready to head back but I haven't explored much except for those places listed above - any recommendations for other Apple Hill places to try out?
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
What now?
As the business and political writer I’ve been blessed with our current economic state. I’m a “big picture” kind of guy. So let’s start with the problem on Wall St. Confidence. You all know the picture on Wall Street, it’s dire. When average citizens have problems with confidence is where you have big problems. People save. Our country didn’t become the most prosperous country on earth because we saved. Am I encouraging living beyond your means? For my investment’s sake, “yes.” I personally wouldn’t live beyond my means though. The next round of pain will hit government agencies. Government makes money by the movement of money. When money doesn’t change hands because people are saving, banks are hoarding, and jobs are diminishing, the government’s coffers begin to wane. That will be the next round of pain and I’m predicting that it won’t be long seems how we’ve already allocated $700 Bil and have the largest deficit in our nation’s history, thank you Bush (you minimizing government spending Republican). Thanks for bankrupting our country like all those companies you bankrupted (notice that his Wikipedia page is devoid of any of that information).
The Bailout Plan is aimed at restoring confidence in the financial system of the United States. “Will it work,” you ask me. The answer is an emphatic, “NO.” Here’s why. It is not addressing the issue at its core, confidence in real estate values. President Bush came on today and said that it’s going to take time for the plan to work. Eventually confidence will be restored in the market but not because of the Bailout Plan. Nonetheless, like the amazing politician that he is (who else can bankrupt companies he’s worked for and still become president? - you have to admit, he’s a great politician) whenever the economy recovers, he will claim victory for the “Recovery Package.” But I digress. Why won’t the package work? To make a long story short, have you ever been in the line at the DMV? Our government is excellent at raising money, not spending it.
So what’s going to happen now? I hate to give a plain answer for a complex situation but, we’re going to have a flat to modest market for the next couple of years (hopefully) (more on that in a second), a rise in unemployment, pressure on businesses and “rough times.” So, the best you can do is maintain a positive attitude, ignore Wall Street, go about your life and let me report to you the trials and tribulations. Why do I say, “hopefully,” when referring to modest market gains for the next few years? THIS IS THE GREATEST TRANSFER OF WEALTH OUR GENERATION WILL SEE. The opportunities to invest in great companies at bargain level prices is, forgive the pun, PRICELESS! It not only goes for the market and 401k investing but real estate investing now. The risk is in failing to invest right now. Your money buys more now than it will in a year, guaranteed.
Now that my business rant is done, what about politics you say? Who am I voting for? I’m voting for the best candidate for the job, and you should too. What’s the biggest issue for me? We need to re-allocate the wealth to the middle class. A healthy middle class is a healthy country. Which party would do that? I can’t say at this time but haven’t I asked enough questions in this article?
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by 16% - STILL (since my Oct. 1st call)
Debate Score:
McCain: 2
Obama: 2
Neither impressed me. Obama needs to ignore McCain’s attacks and focus on the answers of the questions. McCain needs to stop reporting on Obama’s career and focus on his own political record.
If anyone has some specific stocks they would like me to review just post them in the comment section and hopefully I will get to them the next time I post.
And, I’m going to add a Bit to my posting called, “Disgraced Politician of the Week.” This week’s Disgraced Politician of the Week is Karl Rove. The man who brought us George W. Bush. Karl recently had a link on the front page of Yahoo! that said he predicts a McCain win in November. If I were a Republican, I would be extremely angry that Karl Rove is still a republican public figure. He’s a disgrace. If you’d like to know more, go here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_Rove .
The Bailout Plan is aimed at restoring confidence in the financial system of the United States. “Will it work,” you ask me. The answer is an emphatic, “NO.” Here’s why. It is not addressing the issue at its core, confidence in real estate values. President Bush came on today and said that it’s going to take time for the plan to work. Eventually confidence will be restored in the market but not because of the Bailout Plan. Nonetheless, like the amazing politician that he is (who else can bankrupt companies he’s worked for and still become president? - you have to admit, he’s a great politician) whenever the economy recovers, he will claim victory for the “Recovery Package.” But I digress. Why won’t the package work? To make a long story short, have you ever been in the line at the DMV? Our government is excellent at raising money, not spending it.
So what’s going to happen now? I hate to give a plain answer for a complex situation but, we’re going to have a flat to modest market for the next couple of years (hopefully) (more on that in a second), a rise in unemployment, pressure on businesses and “rough times.” So, the best you can do is maintain a positive attitude, ignore Wall Street, go about your life and let me report to you the trials and tribulations. Why do I say, “hopefully,” when referring to modest market gains for the next few years? THIS IS THE GREATEST TRANSFER OF WEALTH OUR GENERATION WILL SEE. The opportunities to invest in great companies at bargain level prices is, forgive the pun, PRICELESS! It not only goes for the market and 401k investing but real estate investing now. The risk is in failing to invest right now. Your money buys more now than it will in a year, guaranteed.
Now that my business rant is done, what about politics you say? Who am I voting for? I’m voting for the best candidate for the job, and you should too. What’s the biggest issue for me? We need to re-allocate the wealth to the middle class. A healthy middle class is a healthy country. Which party would do that? I can’t say at this time but haven’t I asked enough questions in this article?
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by 16% - STILL (since my Oct. 1st call)
Debate Score:
McCain: 2
Obama: 2
Neither impressed me. Obama needs to ignore McCain’s attacks and focus on the answers of the questions. McCain needs to stop reporting on Obama’s career and focus on his own political record.
If anyone has some specific stocks they would like me to review just post them in the comment section and hopefully I will get to them the next time I post.
And, I’m going to add a Bit to my posting called, “Disgraced Politician of the Week.” This week’s Disgraced Politician of the Week is Karl Rove. The man who brought us George W. Bush. Karl recently had a link on the front page of Yahoo! that said he predicts a McCain win in November. If I were a Republican, I would be extremely angry that Karl Rove is still a republican public figure. He’s a disgrace. If you’d like to know more, go here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_Rove .
Monday, October 6, 2008
The Week In Revew
Well, Sports Fans- I don't know what to say. The Cubs looked like a Little League team versus the Los Angeles Dodgers. I was awfully frustrated and disappointed with their performance. The fact is that the Cubs have scored 12 runs in their last 6 playoff games. They have not won a playoff game since they were up 3-1 in the 2003 NLCS against the Marlins. I had a lot of fun enjoying this season, but the end was anti-climatic. I don't have any other in depth analysis other than to say that "Next year is the year... it's always the year"
On to happier topics, the Bears dominated the Detroit Lions. Kyle Orton threw for over 300 yards, 2 TDs and 0 INTs. Go Bears.
The 49ers couldn't come through against the short-handed New England Patroits. The offense looked great initially, and looked like the Cubs' offense in the second half. No points=loss almost every time.
To be honest, I was a groomsman in my friend, Mike's wedding this weekend so I was not able to watch too much sports this weekend (including the Cubs final playoff game) but I'll end this with my two extremes picks of the week:
Most Impressive Performance: (besides the Dodgers who I will completely ignore) the Washington Redskins. Once again, I was sure they would let down this week (I picked against them in Week 2) and they played a GREAT game against the Eagles. They are making me a believer. You never know- we might be on a collison course for a Bears/Redskins playoff match-up.
Least Impressive Performance: (besides the team from the North Side of Chicago that I've already mentioned) the San Diego Chargers. This team is SOOOOOOOOO talented and Norv Turner is clearly not getting the optimal performance out of his players. They start slow EVERY game. The underacheive every game. LT is coming off as a powdy whiner. I like the Chargers, but I can't stay on the bandwagon if they keep choking in games they should win.
Basically, this was a depressing sports week for me, so it's hard for me to get very excited about much in the way of athletic contests. I will leave you with quick predictions:
World Series: Red Sox beat Phillies
Super Bowl: Dallas beats Steelers
NBA: Sacramento Kings make the 8 spot in the West (bold, ain't it.)
NASCAR: I'll pay attention the day Cole Trickle and Ricky Bobby show up and actually race in a race.
On to happier topics, the Bears dominated the Detroit Lions. Kyle Orton threw for over 300 yards, 2 TDs and 0 INTs. Go Bears.
The 49ers couldn't come through against the short-handed New England Patroits. The offense looked great initially, and looked like the Cubs' offense in the second half. No points=loss almost every time.
To be honest, I was a groomsman in my friend, Mike's wedding this weekend so I was not able to watch too much sports this weekend (including the Cubs final playoff game) but I'll end this with my two extremes picks of the week:
Most Impressive Performance: (besides the Dodgers who I will completely ignore) the Washington Redskins. Once again, I was sure they would let down this week (I picked against them in Week 2) and they played a GREAT game against the Eagles. They are making me a believer. You never know- we might be on a collison course for a Bears/Redskins playoff match-up.
Least Impressive Performance: (besides the team from the North Side of Chicago that I've already mentioned) the San Diego Chargers. This team is SOOOOOOOOO talented and Norv Turner is clearly not getting the optimal performance out of his players. They start slow EVERY game. The underacheive every game. LT is coming off as a powdy whiner. I like the Chargers, but I can't stay on the bandwagon if they keep choking in games they should win.
Basically, this was a depressing sports week for me, so it's hard for me to get very excited about much in the way of athletic contests. I will leave you with quick predictions:
World Series: Red Sox beat Phillies
Super Bowl: Dallas beats Steelers
NBA: Sacramento Kings make the 8 spot in the West (bold, ain't it.)
NASCAR: I'll pay attention the day Cole Trickle and Ricky Bobby show up and actually race in a race.
Friday, October 3, 2008
The cheapest place I've found in the world
With the economy as the lead story in news (along with of course, the Vice Presidential debates, but there's no shortage of bloggers discussing that topic), this week let me introduce you to the cheapest place that I've ever stayed and a lovely little spot in the world.Consider for a future vacation a trip to Muang Ngoi, Nong Khiew (map) and Muang Ngoi Neua in Laos (rhymes with cow, sounds like l-ow, no 's'). But be ready to sit back and relax on a hard piece of wood for many hours to get there.
Muang Ngoi/Nong Khiew is accessible by boat or truck from the city of Luang Prabang (map). If you take the truck, you'll likely be riding with a rooster and depending on how full the truck is hanging off the back of it. The boat however, is extremely scenic, though it will take about nine hours to get there. And you may have to get out and push along the way when the water gets too shallow. Or if you need a break from sitting, the driver will stop a few
times along the way and everyone will jump out of the boat for a bit of swim. All along the way, kids play in the water and squeal as when a boat approaches and then all wave frantically as the boat passes. I don't think the local fishermen appreciate the boatloads of loud tourists and roaring engines. Check out the map link above - this place is quite remote, but it's still on the backpacker trail and there are plenty of people around to meet and visit with from around the world.The next town, Muang Ngoi Neua, is up the river and only accessible by boat. It was here in 2005 that I found my cheapest guesthouse in the world - $1.00 per room, or if you share, only
50 cents a person. (There have been those nights I've spent in parks, train stations and other free locations - but that's for another post) Every guesthouse and restaurant is frequented by local children who are often the translators with the tourists. They are extremely inquisitive and think nothing on sitting in your lap and checking out the random mementos that might be tied onto one's wrist or backpack and demanding they be taken off (in my case - it was a rubber chicken).Even here, there is still a strip of restaurants that serve food to the backpackers in town. One thing about small towns though, is that they are reliant on a generator and candles, so if the generator goes out, there goes all hope for a cold beverage. If the generator is working - drink up! While enjoying a meal in one of the restaurants you may notice a with drawings of UXO's or unexploded ordinances. This is a sobering reminder of the land mines that are still found in this area and a reminder to make a
mental note to stay on marked paths.The best part about a visit to these cities is all of the hammock time, the time wandering the (marked) trails, sitting out by river and just relaxing. Remove the bustling markets of Bangkok, the traffic, the large population and suddenly the world is a lot quieter. The sounds here are mostly of the children. Splashing around the water. Giggling at a picture of themselves taken by a tourist with a digital camera. A little girl proud of the tiny fish she caught.
If you have the patience, and a tough derriere, traveling is easy here.
Life is slower. There's often only one option of how to get from here to there, so there are less decisions. Buses don't often doesn't show up when they are scheduled. When that happens, sit back, relax and hope that the bus will come tomorrow. And it might or it might not. If not, there's still a beautiful land, laughing children and plenty of people to talk to. And maybe, if you're lucky, a cold beverage at the end of the day.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Arizona Debate School
Things have happened in the business and political world since my post a week ago. The largest bank failure to date occurred, our government denied the Bailout Bill that “cost” wall street $1.3 trillion paper money the next day, and the Vice Presidential Debate was scheduled for Thursday at 6p.m. PST.
I had a long explanation written regarding the Bailout Bill but I decided to scrap it and look at the larger picture. The Pros are saying, “don’t change your game plan, invest for the long run.” Meaning, don’t sell stock, don’t re-organize your portfolio, don’t flee to T-bills, and don’t cash out and buy gold. The very same people who are telling you this are the people who are pleading for the Bailout Bill and if it doesn’t happen, well, there might as well be a meteor hurtling towards the earth with no one to stop it but Steve Buscemi. I’d like to make 3 points based on that comment: 1.) stay invested, stay strong, now is the time to amass assets at cheap prices 2.) If the pros are telling us invest for the long term, and we all know the economy will recover as it always does, then why do we need the Bailout Bill? and 3.) I have two possible actors for the Steve Buscemi character, Ben Bernanke, Hank Paulson, now be free and go watch the movie.
So what do you do? STAY INVESTED, INVEST MORE THAN USUAL NOW, and don’t look at your statement’s bottom line. My safe STOCK investing idea for the moment? GE, MO, VZ
On the political front, Thursday is the Vice Presidential Debate at 6p.m. PST. I would like to know from someone who is voting the republican ticket in November to post 2 reasons why they are voting the way they are voting. I would like someone to explain to me their reasoning. Without telling you who I’m voting for I’ll try to sum up the debate with a couple bipartisan key points. Look I used everyone’s favorite word of the month, “bipartisan.” I’m going to use that word from now on to refer to anything that has to do with working together or cooperation, fun.
Biden must not shred Palin to pieces for fear of looking like a petulant egomaniac. Biden needs to focus on the topics and not act reactionary to Palin’s comments. This technique would allow him to introduce his ideals and political stances to the public while not coming off negative.
Palin is the public’s underdog. If she can control the pace of the debate it will work to her favor. She is probably more likely to show weakness, therefore, controlling the pace will allow her to stay within her comfort level. I’m not sure how much someone can learn at the McCain Arizona Debate Camp, but Palin needs to memorize hard facts; economical, political, and international relations. She needs to leave small town politics out of the debate and talk about the larger issues and how she is qualified to perform the duties of Vice President of the United States of America.
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by at least 16%
Two final questions: Why is Dancing With the Stars the only show on television now? And, why is Monday Night Football not on NETWORK TELEVISION?
-Erik
I had a long explanation written regarding the Bailout Bill but I decided to scrap it and look at the larger picture. The Pros are saying, “don’t change your game plan, invest for the long run.” Meaning, don’t sell stock, don’t re-organize your portfolio, don’t flee to T-bills, and don’t cash out and buy gold. The very same people who are telling you this are the people who are pleading for the Bailout Bill and if it doesn’t happen, well, there might as well be a meteor hurtling towards the earth with no one to stop it but Steve Buscemi. I’d like to make 3 points based on that comment: 1.) stay invested, stay strong, now is the time to amass assets at cheap prices 2.) If the pros are telling us invest for the long term, and we all know the economy will recover as it always does, then why do we need the Bailout Bill? and 3.) I have two possible actors for the Steve Buscemi character, Ben Bernanke, Hank Paulson, now be free and go watch the movie.
So what do you do? STAY INVESTED, INVEST MORE THAN USUAL NOW, and don’t look at your statement’s bottom line. My safe STOCK investing idea for the moment? GE, MO, VZ
On the political front, Thursday is the Vice Presidential Debate at 6p.m. PST. I would like to know from someone who is voting the republican ticket in November to post 2 reasons why they are voting the way they are voting. I would like someone to explain to me their reasoning. Without telling you who I’m voting for I’ll try to sum up the debate with a couple bipartisan key points. Look I used everyone’s favorite word of the month, “bipartisan.” I’m going to use that word from now on to refer to anything that has to do with working together or cooperation, fun.
Biden must not shred Palin to pieces for fear of looking like a petulant egomaniac. Biden needs to focus on the topics and not act reactionary to Palin’s comments. This technique would allow him to introduce his ideals and political stances to the public while not coming off negative.
Palin is the public’s underdog. If she can control the pace of the debate it will work to her favor. She is probably more likely to show weakness, therefore, controlling the pace will allow her to stay within her comfort level. I’m not sure how much someone can learn at the McCain Arizona Debate Camp, but Palin needs to memorize hard facts; economical, political, and international relations. She needs to leave small town politics out of the debate and talk about the larger issues and how she is qualified to perform the duties of Vice President of the United States of America.
My current Election Prediction ticker: Obama/Biden ticket by at least 16%
Two final questions: Why is Dancing With the Stars the only show on television now? And, why is Monday Night Football not on NETWORK TELEVISION?
-Erik
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