SKARBECK: Fed’s monetary policies drag down bond returns
Inflation is a sinister sort of tax that confiscates wealth. Bonds will lose value in an inflationary environment as interest rates rise.
Investing Column
Articles
HAUKE: When others panic, think about investing
It is at times like this that it pays to have a little historical perspective, a touch of experience and a steady demeanor.
SKARBECK: Japan’s rebuilding effort offers bargain opportunities
Economically, the next couple of quarters will be tough for Japanese citizens. But we wouldn’t bet against their resolve to rebuild their country.
HAUKE: Oil prices a problem that could burst bubble
We know that, combined with all the other factors, a 25-percent jump in energy prices is something to be at least a little concerned about.
SKARBECK: Reaching too far for yields may have consequences
Investors eager to capture return are frequently attracted to investments that offer high yields. But before leaping into them, they should remember the useful idiom: “There is no free lunch.”
HAUKE: Unrest around the world has roots in one thing
Just about every country in the world, with the exception of Australia, is strapped for cash.
HAUKE: Now may not be best time for emerging markets
Emerging market stocks have underperformed U.S.-based stocks for almost 18 months now, and the signs don’t look that good going forward.
SKARBECK: If consultants take over, ownership is relinquished
Unfortunately, there are numerous examples of mishap when the investment decision-making process is farmed out.
HAUKE: Long-term market outlook stronger than short term
I have been right about this general bull market since July 2009 and I was right when I told people to stay invested last spring. Today, however, I am at a bit of a crossroads.
SKARBECK: Big banks still face issues over soured mortgages
The U.S. banking system continues on its path toward healing—with many thanks to the ongoing generosity of U.S. taxpayers.
HAUKE: After decade-long run, gold continues to glitter
Obviously, I am not the only human to have an interest in gold, as it has been the obsession of entire cultures during certain historical periods.
SKARBECK: Deficits turn up pressure on unions, politicians
One sure bet this year is that Americans can expect to see a number of high-profile battles across the country between municipal or state governments and public-employee unions.
HAUKE: Internet sites make splash without public markets
There is an interesting twist to all these newly discovered pots of Internet gold. They are not public, but almost anyone can buy stock in these companies in the private market if you hunt around enough.
SKARBECK: Regulators and ‘experts’ failed to stop scammers
Most people find it incomprehensible that there are hundreds of con men around the country who wake up every morning with the objective of looting people who have placed their trust in them.
HAUKE: Federal Reserve remains on dangerous course
The debate over whether we even need a central bank—which is what the Fed is today—began shortly after the founding of our country.
SKARBECK: Brokerage soft costs under tighter scrutiny
Many investment firms, hedge funds and mutual funds participate in this less-than-desirable industry practice.
HAUKE: History tells us that bull will stay here a while
American stock market history goes back far enough to give us a lot of data and reference points we can use to help us understand the future.
SKARBECK: GM’s return to market not your usual IPO
This unusual taxpayer-owned IPO did create some interesting conflicts.
HAUKE: Fed pulling out all stops to keep inflation down
U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke wants the entire world to believe that the United States is in a deflationary economic cycle and, therefore, the drastic, insane steps he is taking are justified.
SKARBECK: Benchmarks helpful, but have their problems
Benchmarking has exploded with the industry’s propensity to slice and dice and categorize every segment of the overall investment pie.