Monday, November 23, 2009

Jubak's Journal

Another lost decade for investors?
Jim Jubak

Since 1999, the S&P 500 has been a loser, and the next 10 years could be just as grim. But with new strategies, you can position yourself well for the decade to come.


Extra

The best values in private colleges
Ivy League (c) Owen Franken / Corbis

Despite shrinking endowments, these 100 institutions offer high-quality education for less than you might expect. For some students, they're cheaper than state schools.


Extra

10 holiday money mistakes
Shopping Returns © Stockdisc/SuperStock

You and your wallet will be jollier if you avoid these financial pitfalls.


Friday, November 20, 2009

Extra

8 lessons from a $20 billion trade

In the greatest trade ever, a New York hedge fund manager scored big betting on the housing collapse. Even average investors can learn from his tactics.


Contrarian Chronicles

How much longer can gold rise?

As the precious metal continues to soar, naysayers abound. But a few things need to happen before the yellow fever cools off.


Extra

Toyota, safety group squabble over ratings

The automaker objects to being left off a list of the safest vehicles, saying the exclusion is 'extreme and misleading.' The tester defends its methods.


The Basics

Give one good gift this year

Instead of burying a loved one with lots of smaller, not-so-special gifts, why not pool your resources with other folks to buy a truly memorable present? Start with these 9 ideas.


The Basics

Year-end moves to trim your tax bill

The holidays -- a season of giving and joy -- are almost here. It's also your last chance to cut your 2009 taxes. (Keep those receipts when you give to charities!)


The Basics

To cut next year's taxes, start now

If you knew you could deduct more of your expenses and keep more of your income, you would, right? For 2010, you can -- if you begin ASAP. And it's not too late to reduce your '09 taxes.


The Basics

Don't get bitten by this Awfully Mean Tax

The Alternative Minimum Tax -- the tax that taxes you for having too many tax breaks -- is affecting a growing number of families. Here's how to minimize the bite.


Thursday, November 19, 2009

Extra

What's to hate about Starbucks

An empire built on airs, the company has begun shunning its own image for hipper garb. But its big new style is decidedly down-market.


The Basics

13 ways to buy gift cards for less

Gift cards, a timeless and easy way to spread your love, are even better when you can nab them for half price -- or less. And the recipients will never know.


Jubak Journal

3-step strategy for a twitchy market

Many investors are deeply suspicious of the 60% run-up in stocks this year and are itching to sell. But then what? Here's how to take some gains now while setting up a profitable 2010.


Extra

What's to love about Starbucks

Even if you never stop at one, the coffee lover in you benefits from the ubiquitous fuel stops -- because Starbucks created the demand that made your local coffee shop possible.


The Basics

Black Friday deals: You'll need to dig

Compared with a year ago, when panicked retailers slashed prices all over, deep discounts will be tougher to find this season. Here's how and where to spot bargains.


Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The Basics

How long can Social Security last?

At the current rate, the system could be operating in the red in just a few years and exhaust its trust fund by 2037. Meanwhile, reform seems more difficult than ever.


The Basics

Foreclosure or bankruptcy: What to do?

If you find yourself behind on your mortgage, either route may seem like the wrong direction. But your choice will have a big impact. Here's how to make the right one.


Company Focus

Farewell to Wall St.'s decade of hubris

The era will be remembered for 2 burst financial bubbles and a rogue's gallery of scoundrels who rewarded themselves well and delivered very little.


SuperModels

Go east (and south), young man

As the United States loses ground to the emerging markets of China, India and Brazil, the opportunities that beckon will spur more Americans to seek their fortunes there.


Extra

Will defunct Aztek lead GM into the future?

The midsized crossover was reviled as one of the worst cars of all time. But it represents the kind of risk-taking GM needs as it emerges from bankruptcy.

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