SKARBECK: Microsoft stuck in 1990s when acquiring companies
Microsoft Corp.’s acquisition of Skype for $8.5 billion, announced May 10, continues a long history of a lack of price discipline in Silicon Valley.
Investing Column
Articles
SKARBECK: Getting a banker’s thoughts on financial reform efforts
Dimon believes boards and regulators “are more attentive to risk” now—a duty that was sadly trumped by greed and indifference in the years leading up to the credit crisis.
SKARBECK: Inflation a growing concern beyond the United States
when it comes to global inflation, all eyes are on China, where a rapid rise in prices is causing concern.
SKARBECK: Look beyond gold for inflation hedges
gold has been in a 10-year bull market, so today’s investors aren’t exactly discovering the metal at cheap prices.
SKARBECK: Inflation worries growing, and for good reasons
As much as Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke would like to think he can pull in the reins at the right moment, the beast of inflation is difficult to control.
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.
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.