Why Apple Stock Makes Me Nervous

June 2, 2010

Let me start by saying that in terms of its products, I am an Apple (AAPL) hugger.  I have a MacBook Pro and iPhone.  I can still remember the excitement in the early 80’s when a high school friend got an Apple II.  I was amazed when I ordered my first iPod from the...
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Why Sprint Nextel Deserves the Call from Investors

May 12, 2010

The best turnaround investing opportunities can occur when a number of factors suggest the prospect of increased value.  For that reason, it’s my opinion that investors should consider the case for Sprint Nextel. First, sentiment is growing that while Sprint’s network is not yet on par with U.S. quality leader Verizon (VZ), it is...
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Barrick Gold Stock: Good Value Now

February 1, 2010

Back in November, when gold was red hot, I warned investors against making big bets on gold or gold-related assets in the 4th quarter of 2009.  I was on target here.  During the week of that writing (November 16-20), gold was trading in the $1,130-$1,150/oz. range.  It hit a peak of $1217.40 on December...
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Congress May Curtail Long Term Unemployment Benefits Later This Year

July 6, 2010

Congress adjourned for the July 4th holiday without extending long-term unemployment benefits that have been in place since 2008. 1...
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Why Deflation Fears are Also Exaggerated

June 30, 2010
Why Deflation Fears are Also Exaggerated

In October 2009, I argued-so far correctly-that hyperinflation concerns in the United States were exaggerated.  Now fear of deflation...
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Congress’s Failure to Extend Federal Unemployment Benefits Will Increasingly Move to the Forefront

June 28, 2010

While the big news in government policy to fix the U.S. economy last week was the progress of the...
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Thoughts on Everyday Living

How to Refinance Your Mortgage If You Have Good Credit

How to Refinance Your Mortgage If You Have Good Credit

We recently refinanced, taking advantage of the historically low rates precipitated by the financial crisis.  But given the tremors felt throughout the banking industry, even homeowners with the best credit may have a hard time closing the deal.  Here are some thoughts on what worked to get us a good deal: If you want...

How to Help Your Unemployed Spouse Find a New Job After a Layoff

How to Help Your Unemployed Spouse Find a New Job After a Layoff

The experience of a layoff is difficult for any marriage.  My wife was laid off in January, and like many in my position I looked hard for ideas on what I should do to help.  Internet searches yielded two kinds of articles:  1) posts from career counselor types who had some decent general advice,...