Larry House

Expect Another Misguided Stimulus Plan

All stimulus plans are misguided.

A Dow Double in 10 years? Easy

It may sound easy enough, but don't underestimate the long-term economic problems we face. Other "experts" who manage billions of dollars are predicting growth of 1-3% for the next few years--a good-sized chunk of the 10 years. Beyond that, we may face high inflation. On top of all, we have growing budget deficits. Stocks will have a hard time averaging 7.2% per year with that backdrop. I hope it happens, but I don't expect it.

Can't Stop the Market Bulls

The bulls will stop themselves. They can't buy forever, and it doesn't take selling for the market to go down--just takes a lack of buying. Volume has not been substantial at all for a rally of this magnitude. Please tell me--is there anyone out there who went long in March and still hasn't taken profits? There are bulls, and then there are smart bulls.

Report from Europe: U.S. Close vs. China Rebound

Employment may be a lagging indicator, but how can consumers fire up with unemployment what it is now? Also, I really think--as a consumer myself--that some fundamental spending changes are happening, especially with Boomers, and the higher savings rate is here to stay for a generation. Either consumers will cease to be 70% of the economy, or the economy is going to be smaller. It is not going back to the way it was any time soon.

Are Financial Stocks Preparing for 'The Fall'?

I have no financials in my portfolio at present, but if they fall far enough, I will. I feel the same way about nonessential retailers and some tech. I think they have all come too far too fast.

Cramer's Mad Money - Paul Krugman Is Wrong (8/10/09)

Nothing is fixed in our economy. Cramer is wrong when he claimed a couple of months ago that housing has bottomed. That is not proven empirically or in the sentiments of those in that industry. Over the last four years (used to watch once in a while, seldom now) I have seen Cramer make so many reversals I can't count them.

Forget the 1930s; We're Reliving 1975 (Part II)

NOTHING is to be learned about the present by looking at the past. That is not my idea; it is straight from the noted value investor Benjamin Graham. By the way, I haven't seen any "surging profits." If you set a bar at one foot high and clear it by a foot, does that make you a great high jumper? Let's get real, folks.

Commodity Market Cross Currents

If you have to take a paragraph to explain your allusion, you should choose a different one. I just don't get anything useful from the piece.

Juicing Your Income with Select Bonds

Sound info. I prefer individual bonds to funds for the reasons you have given. As long as the government is providing a backstop for banks and other financials, I am quite willing to invest in those bonds with 1-5 year maturities. I would add AXP, GS. MS to the list as well.

Gartman: Using Base Metals as a Bottom Indicator

Interesting analysis. Thanks. Gartman's opinions I at least listen to.