Part I began my discussion about Alternative Investments by trying to help with an understanding of the terms used. I referenced some of the investments that are thought of as “alternatives” and began to provide definitions for some of the words and phrases necessary if you’re going to employ Alternative Investments in your portfolio. As …
Continue reading The Case for Alternative Investments, Part II
No, not really, but... The following two summaries, issued this week, from two programs that I use for clients' money, will give anyone pause. I’ve removed the names to protect the innocent... The first reads as follows: _________ issued the following statement regarding today’s new allocation: We made adjustments to the portfolios consistent with our …
The Dow Jones Theory is probably the most popular theory regarding the behavior of stock market prices. It has been around for almost 100 years, yet even in today’s volatile and technology-driven markets, the basic components of this theory still remain valid. The theory derives its name from Charles H. Dow, who established the Dow …
Summer is here and high school graduation has come and gone. Before you know it, college freshman everywhere will be settling into their residence halls and high school seniors are eagerly anticipating being next. Moving on to college is an important milestone for young adults, but it is important not to lose sight of other …
Continue reading Every 18 Year Old Should Have These 3 Critical Documents
BY SAM HALLGREN 6:30 am Wake up disoriented, with a funny taste in my mouth. Shift away from the sun and discover a chipmunk, fast asleep not two inches from my protruding belly. I whimper, curse, and then remind myself (again) not to go on any more blind dates. Fermented chestnuts will make anyone look …
For the past ten years, the markets have essentially gone nowhere. And it is entirely possible this history will repeat itself over the next ten years. If the pattern holds, all investors will be forced to rethink their assumptions about asset allocation and diversification. Otherwise, we’re unlikely to be successful if our objective is to …
Continue reading The Case For Alternative Investments – Part I
It's hard to find a short, comprehensive description of what's happening in the global economy. And most of us don't have either the time or the specific need to read the Wall Street Journal and come to our own conclusions. We just want a short summary to help us make intelligent decisions. This Weekly Insight …
I think we all know the name Bernie Madoff. What we don't know is how his actions have influenced how ordinary people interact with their financial advisors. But I rarely have a conversation with a prospective client anymore that isn't influenced by Madoff. Many individuals begin an interaction with a financial advisor as a result …
I probably sound like Gloomy Gus and with good reason. Here's further evidence that we're just going to have to keep slogging along for the next several months and hope for the best. Slate's website has a good summary... Read it here.
A favorite of mine is Tom Barnett. Here's a post with huge implications going forward with respect to the Middle East and our dependency on oil. READ IT HERE...
Helping Define Your Financial Future 