Thomas Smicklas

Success in 2010 Requires Investing in Other Countries

Roger always presents a reasoned approach to investing. He is a great choice for Seeking Alpha's 2010 portfolio series.

Capitalism, Socialism and 10-Year Returns of Country ETFs

When one examines all of the OTHER taxes that are paid over and above those analyed in this article, I would think the surmises would be different.

4 Key Paths to Portfolio Flexibility in 2009

Any retirement funds that of necessity income oriented should include a suitable mix of the preferred ETFs such as PFF for a higher yield, blended corporates and treasuries, not forgetting TIP. Inflation is the 600 pound gorilla in waiting, imo. Don't forget the tax man cometh, sooneth, and shield that income.

No need too buy my entire list. Pick and chose a small portfolio you are comfortable with.

Investment Ideas For Hard Times To Come

As mentioned by BS, there is plenty of blame to go around. I am still waiting for Democrats in Congress to shoulder their fair share in regards to the present financial challenges we face as a nation.

iShares Switzerland Can Ease Portfolio Turmoil

Your observation is correct. But this time it may be different.

Switzerland ETF Getting Ready to Rebound

Good points above.

Points:
The international companies that make up the majority of the ETF are of interest to me as they are out of favor and represent good buying opportunities in total. Being based in Switzerland gives these companies an international political advantage, imo, for enhanced business opportunities. Currency speculation is not a reason to consider this ETF. The EU and US may not be as close a link to EWL in the future due to increasingly anti-growth and isolationist political schemes. Switzerland's long standing reputation for a safe haven dwarfs Singapore and Dubai. Longevity counts, as does geographical and political safety.

There are a few ways to play the Swiss company theme. EWL has the ingredients to be an anchor, steadying your investment vessel in turbulent seas. We all know that it is not a get rich quick investment, and probably not the place to be overweight in a bull market environment.