Yael Pipano

Tamar Yaniv Joins Seeking Alpha as SVP Sales & Marketing

Can I apply for a job with Seeking Alpha? I love your site, and I have a strong investment background.

STO's Growth Will Blow Out Earnings

STO has great potential. In the Norwegian sector, Statoil is set to play the dominant role. Its activities are currently concentrated in the southern Barents Sea*. Investments could amount to $12 billion in 2007-2015, not including the 1st Snohvit LNG train due onstream this year. Scenario based on Snohvit where a crucial appraisal well was completed in July’07, Eni’s Goliat field, expected onstream in 2010, and a 2nd train at Snohvit starting in 2014.

Dow Chemical's Bright Future

From 1Q 08 conf call:
discussions are going very well on our announced joint venture with Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait, and we remain on schedule to close, by latest end of the year. As an alliance between a world-class chemical company and one of the world's leading oil producers, this new company will be well-positioned to capture growth in key geographic regions such as China, India and the Middle East.
the close of our Kuwait deal increases the probability that share buyback will become a reality. we will have buyback programs in place to... at a minimum, cover dilution and of course subject to board approval, we will regularly be in the market buying back our stock.

Murphy Oil's an Attractive Acquisition Candidate

One person's crap is always another's treasure, that's why there's always a loser for every winner in the stock market.

Dow in Cautious Mode

sorry that was k+s (german co that took over Morton's Salt from DOW).

Dow in Cautious Mode

Sorry, that was Germany's K+S

Dow in Cautious Mode

Also, does anyone know any further details on Dow's sale of one of its units to BASF (the German chemical company) in order to raise money?

Dow in Cautious Mode

Todd-
I got started in investing in DOW in large part because you sparked my interest in it. Only bad news since I bought it in early 2008 for about $35/shr. Redundant to mention the bad economic news which only compounded the damage. Is this worth holding on to, I know it's a great company but now that the dividend was cut from $0.375 per quarter in mid 2006 to $0.15 as of now (translating to 6.1% dividend yield) holding on to it over a long period of time has a higher opportunity cost, not to mention the risk with all the uncertainties (mergers, JVs, acquisitions/sales, etc).

The Electric Car Battery Battle

www.a123systems.com/hy...
We are now taking $1000 deposits for the Hymotion™ L5 Plug-in Conversion Modules for the Toyota Prius. The L5 is priced at $9995 + all applicable taxes + $400 destination fee. Installation and a standard 3 year warranty are included. Place a deposit now to reserve your L5 and choose the A123 Green Certified Hymotion Installer Partner (CHIP) dealer location of your choice.

Consumer orders placed at this time are expected to ship from our factory in January 2009.
Actual installation date will be scheduled through your local Green CHIP dealer.

After placing your $1000 deposit you will receive a confirmation email that will include a deposit confirmation code and further details on the installation process. Additionally, we will contact you within 5 business days of placing your deposit with your specific target installation timeframe. Deposits are fully refundable for a $75 processing fee up to 30 days prior to your installation date.

Hymotion L5 Plug-in Conversion Module for the Toyota Prius


Purchase Price $9995 including installation and standard 3 year warranty
$400 destination fee plus all applicable taxes
Place your $1000 deposit and select your Green CHIP dealer location
Receive deposit confirmation
Receive target install date within 5 business days
Green CHIP dealer will contact you to arrange your installation appointment
Bring your vehicle in, purchase your L5 from your Green CHIP dealer by paying remaining balance including all applicable taxes

Billing Address
First Name

Last Name

Address

City

State or Province

Zip Code

Country United States Canada

Phone Number

Email Address

Verify Email Match!No Match!




Do you currently own or plan to purchase a Toyota Prius model years 2004 – 2008?



Our first product, the L5 Plug-in Conversion Module, is only available for the Toyota Prius model years 2004 - 2008. If you would like to join our mailing list to receive product updates, click here.

Do you live in the United States or Canada?







www.a123systems.com/hy...

www.a123systems.com/hy...

Amazing!

You can now get a kit (including installation) valued at $12,000 with a lithium A123 battery pack installed in your Toyota prius with its own warranty (not negating your present warranty with Toyota) that can give you 140 miles/gallon. All you need is a 110 Volt outlet. If you run out of gas, no worry, you can fill up gas as usual if no outlet around, wow! Bad news: long wait, abt. 200 people on list to get them.. You can get on waiting list on website above if you really want to go green.

about us
contact us
faqs
Buy yours now!
Place a deposit online
Plug-in calculator Compare different car types
Join the community
Be a part of the gallery!

A123Systems Hymotion™
Products
P: 877-2GO-PHEV (877-246-7438)
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm EST

Hymotion Certified
Installers


Hymotion Mailing List
Not ready to buy but want
to stay in the know? Join
our mailing list for product
announcements and updates.


A123Systems
The Arsenal on the Charles
321 Arsenal Street
Watertown, MA 02472
P: 617-778-5700
a123systems.com

Email
General Information:
[e-mail]

Career Opportunities:
a123systems.com

Fleet Owners:
[e-mail]

Press Inquiries:
[e-mail]


Legal | Privacy Policy | Contact
2009 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid









Click image to enlarge





Mouse over thumbnails to view images


This is a 2009 Prius package 6 touring edition, loaded with every feature. We are the Hymotion Green Chip dealer and have professionally installed the Lithium Battery pack which allows the Prius to travel up to 40 miles on pure electricity. You should achieve fuel economy of 100-150 mpg depending on your driving pattern. The car is still under factory warranty and NO this kit does NOT void the factory warranty. The Hymotion kit also comes with a 3 year warranty as well.



Vehicle Information

Stock No:
831549
2009 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
L4, 1.5L
5 Dr Hatchback
jtdkb20u997831549 Trans:
Drivetrain:
Ext Color:
Int Color:
Automatic
FWD
Light Blue
Gray







Customer Resources



Contact
Green Car Company
Eco-Experts
425-820-4549
345 106TH AVE NE
BELLEVUE, WA 98004






Vehicle Options


----------------------...

Price listed for this vehicle does not include charges such as: License, Title, Registration Fees, State or Local Taxes, Finance Charges, Optional Credit or Liability Insurance, Delivery Fees, and State Documentary Service Fees. I/O COM, Inc. and the Dealership make no representations, expressed or implied, to any actual or prospective purchaser or owner of this vehicle as to the existence, ownership, accuracy, description or condition of this vehicle's listed equipment, accessories, price or any warranties. I/O COM, Inc and the Dealership are not responsible for typographical errors in price or equipment listed. Any and all differences must be addressed prior to the sale of this vehicle.


www.vehiclemart.com/en...



Home • GCC University • Contact Us • Products • Current Inventory • Site Map • Admin Login • Admin Logout

GCC Privacy Policy



first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius Hybrids
In early November, the Green Car Company of Bellevue, WA will auction on eBAY the first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius Hybrids while supporting Plug In America. Unlike other conversions, these Priuses will come with a factory warranty because the Green Car Company is a dealer using A123 Hymotion batteries. Green Car Co. will jump start this offering by donating the profits of the initial sale to PIA. So many PIA members ask us, "where can I get an electric car?" Well now, instead of replying, "they're coming!" we can say, "they're arriving!"

In this edition:

Hail to the Bailout-Plug Ins Included
Funding for banks has been getting a lot of attention lately, but the historic Congressional bailout package also..
2009 Plug In Prius Auction to Benefit Plug In America
In early November, the Green Car Company of Bellevue, WA will auction on eBAY the first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius..

The Electric Car Battery Battle

www.a123systems.com/hy...
We are now taking $1000 deposits for the Hymotion™ L5 Plug-in Conversion Modules for the Toyota Prius. The L5 is priced at $9995 + all applicable taxes + $400 destination fee. Installation and a standard 3 year warranty are included. Place a deposit now to reserve your L5 and choose the A123 Green Certified Hymotion Installer Partner (CHIP) dealer location of your choice.

Consumer orders placed at this time are expected to ship from our factory in January 2009.
Actual installation date will be scheduled through your local Green CHIP dealer.

After placing your $1000 deposit you will receive a confirmation email that will include a deposit confirmation code and further details on the installation process. Additionally, we will contact you within 5 business days of placing your deposit with your specific target installation timeframe. Deposits are fully refundable for a $75 processing fee up to 30 days prior to your installation date.

Hymotion L5 Plug-in Conversion Module for the Toyota Prius


Purchase Price $9995 including installation and standard 3 year warranty
$400 destination fee plus all applicable taxes
Place your $1000 deposit and select your Green CHIP dealer location
Receive deposit confirmation
Receive target install date within 5 business days
Green CHIP dealer will contact you to arrange your installation appointment
Bring your vehicle in, purchase your L5 from your Green CHIP dealer by paying remaining balance including all applicable taxes

Billing Address
First Name

Last Name

Address

City

State or Province

Zip Code

Country United States Canada

Phone Number

Email Address

Verify Email Match!No Match!




Do you currently own or plan to purchase a Toyota Prius model years 2004 – 2008?



Our first product, the L5 Plug-in Conversion Module, is only available for the Toyota Prius model years 2004 - 2008. If you would like to join our mailing list to receive product updates, click here.

Do you live in the United States or Canada?







----------------------...
www.a123systems.com/hy...

www.a123systems.com/hy...

Amazing!

You can now get a kit (including installation) valued at $12,000 with a lithium A123 battery pack installed in your Toyota prius with its own warranty (not negating your present warranty with Toyota) that can give you 140 miles/gallon. All you need is a 110 Volt outlet. If you run out of gas, no worry, you can fill up gas as usual if no outlet around, wow! Bad news: long wait, abt. 200 people on list to get them.. You can get on waiting list on website above if you really want to go green.

about us
contact us
faqs
Buy yours now!
Place a deposit online
Plug-in calculator Compare different car types
Join the community
Be a part of the gallery!

A123Systems Hymotion™
Products
P: 877-2GO-PHEV (877-246-7438)
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm EST

Hymotion Certified
Installers


Hymotion Mailing List
Not ready to buy but want
to stay in the know? Join
our mailing list for product
announcements and updates.


A123Systems
The Arsenal on the Charles
321 Arsenal Street
Watertown, MA 02472
P: 617-778-5700
a123systems.com

Email
General Information:
[e-mail]

Career Opportunities:
a123systems.com

Fleet Owners:
[e-mail]

Press Inquiries:
[e-mail]


Legal | Privacy Policy | Contact
2009 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid









Click image to enlarge





Mouse over thumbnails to view images


This is a 2009 Prius package 6 touring edition, loaded with every feature. We are the Hymotion Green Chip dealer and have professionally installed the Lithium Battery pack which allows the Prius to travel up to 40 miles on pure electricity. You should achieve fuel economy of 100-150 mpg depending on your driving pattern. The car is still under factory warranty and NO this kit does NOT void the factory warranty. The Hymotion kit also comes with a 3 year warranty as well.



Vehicle Information

Stock No:
831549
2009 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
L4, 1.5L
5 Dr Hatchback
jtdkb20u997831549 Trans:
Drivetrain:
Ext Color:
Int Color:
Automatic
FWD
Light Blue
Gray







Customer Resources



Contact
Green Car Company
Eco-Experts
425-820-4549
345 106TH AVE NE
BELLEVUE, WA 98004






Vehicle Options


----------------------...

Price listed for this vehicle does not include charges such as: License, Title, Registration Fees, State or Local Taxes, Finance Charges, Optional Credit or Liability Insurance, Delivery Fees, and State Documentary Service Fees. I/O COM, Inc. and the Dealership make no representations, expressed or implied, to any actual or prospective purchaser or owner of this vehicle as to the existence, ownership, accuracy, description or condition of this vehicle's listed equipment, accessories, price or any warranties. I/O COM, Inc and the Dealership are not responsible for typographical errors in price or equipment listed. Any and all differences must be addressed prior to the sale of this vehicle.


www.vehiclemart.com/en...



Home • GCC University • Contact Us • Products • Current Inventory • Site Map • Admin Login • Admin Logout

GCC Privacy Policy



first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius Hybrids
In early November, the Green Car Company of Bellevue, WA will auction on eBAY the first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius Hybrids while supporting Plug In America. Unlike other conversions, these Priuses will come with a factory warranty because the Green Car Company is a dealer using A123 Hymotion batteries. Green Car Co. will jump start this offering by donating the profits of the initial sale to PIA. So many PIA members ask us, "where can I get an electric car?" Well now, instead of replying, "they're coming!" we can say, "they're arriving!"

In this edition:

Hail to the Bailout-Plug Ins Included
Funding for banks has been getting a lot of attention lately, but the historic Congressional bailout package also..
2009 Plug In Prius Auction to Benefit Plug In America
In early November, the Green Car Company of Bellevue, WA will auction on eBAY the first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius..

The Electric Car Battery Battle

www.a123systems.com/hy...
We are now taking $1000 deposits for the Hymotion™ L5 Plug-in Conversion Modules for the Toyota Prius. The L5 is priced at $9995 + all applicable taxes + $400 destination fee. Installation and a standard 3 year warranty are included. Place a deposit now to reserve your L5 and choose the A123 Green Certified Hymotion Installer Partner (CHIP) dealer location of your choice.

Consumer orders placed at this time are expected to ship from our factory in January 2009.
Actual installation date will be scheduled through your local Green CHIP dealer.

After placing your $1000 deposit you will receive a confirmation email that will include a deposit confirmation code and further details on the installation process. Additionally, we will contact you within 5 business days of placing your deposit with your specific target installation timeframe. Deposits are fully refundable for a $75 processing fee up to 30 days prior to your installation date.

Hymotion L5 Plug-in Conversion Module for the Toyota Prius


Purchase Price $9995 including installation and standard 3 year warranty
$400 destination fee plus all applicable taxes
Place your $1000 deposit and select your Green CHIP dealer location
Receive deposit confirmation
Receive target install date within 5 business days
Green CHIP dealer will contact you to arrange your installation appointment
Bring your vehicle in, purchase your L5 from your Green CHIP dealer by paying remaining balance including all applicable taxes

Billing Address
First Name

Last Name

Address

City

State or Province

Zip Code

Country United States Canada

Phone Number

Email Address

Verify Email Match!No Match!




Do you currently own or plan to purchase a Toyota Prius model years 2004 – 2008?



Our first product, the L5 Plug-in Conversion Module, is only available for the Toyota Prius model years 2004 - 2008. If you would like to join our mailing list to receive product updates, click here.

Do you live in the United States or Canada?







www.a123systems.com/hy...

www.a123systems.com/hy...

Amazing!

You can now get a kit (including installation) valued at $12,000 with a lithium A123 battery pack installed in your Toyota prius with its own warranty (not negating your present warranty with Toyota) that can give you 140 miles/gallon. All you need is a 110 Volt outlet. If you run out of gas, no worry, you can fill up gas as usual if no outlet around, wow! Bad news: long wait, abt. 200 people on list to get them.. You can get on waiting list on website above if you really want to go green.

about us
contact us
faqs
Buy yours now!
Place a deposit online
Plug-in calculator Compare different car types
Join the community
Be a part of the gallery!

A123Systems Hymotion™
Products
P: 877-2GO-PHEV (877-246-7438)
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm EST

Hymotion Certified
Installers


Hymotion Mailing List
Not ready to buy but want
to stay in the know? Join
our mailing list for product
announcements and updates.


A123Systems
The Arsenal on the Charles
321 Arsenal Street
Watertown, MA 02472
P: 617-778-5700
a123systems.com

Email
General Information:
[e-mail]

Career Opportunities:
a123systems.com

Fleet Owners:
[e-mail]

Press Inquiries:
[e-mail]


Legal | Privacy Policy | Contact
2009 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid









Click image to enlarge





Mouse over thumbnails to view images


This is a 2009 Prius package 6 touring edition, loaded with every feature. We are the Hymotion Green Chip dealer and have professionally installed the Lithium Battery pack which allows the Prius to travel up to 40 miles on pure electricity. You should achieve fuel economy of 100-150 mpg depending on your driving pattern. The car is still under factory warranty and NO this kit does NOT void the factory warranty. The Hymotion kit also comes with a 3 year warranty as well.



Vehicle Information

Stock No:
831549
2009 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
L4, 1.5L
5 Dr Hatchback
jtdkb20u997831549 Trans:
Drivetrain:
Ext Color:
Int Color:
Automatic
FWD
Light Blue
Gray







Customer Resources



Contact
Green Car Company
Eco-Experts
425-820-4549
345 106TH AVE NE
BELLEVUE, WA 98004






Vehicle Options


----------------------...

Price listed for this vehicle does not include charges such as: License, Title, Registration Fees, State or Local Taxes, Finance Charges, Optional Credit or Liability Insurance, Delivery Fees, and State Documentary Service Fees. I/O COM, Inc. and the Dealership make no representations, expressed or implied, to any actual or prospective purchaser or owner of this vehicle as to the existence, ownership, accuracy, description or condition of this vehicle's listed equipment, accessories, price or any warranties. I/O COM, Inc and the Dealership are not responsible for typographical errors in price or equipment listed. Any and all differences must be addressed prior to the sale of this vehicle.


www.vehiclemart.com/en...



Home • GCC University • Contact Us • Products • Current Inventory • Site Map • Admin Login • Admin Logout

GCC Privacy Policy



first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius Hybrids
In early November, the Green Car Company of Bellevue, WA will auction on eBAY the first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius Hybrids while supporting Plug In America. Unlike other conversions, these Priuses will come with a factory warranty because the Green Car Company is a dealer using A123 Hymotion batteries. Green Car Co. will jump start this offering by donating the profits of the initial sale to PIA. So many PIA members ask us, "where can I get an electric car?" Well now, instead of replying, "they're coming!" we can say, "they're arriving!"

From: Linda Nicholes [mailto:linda@pluginam...
Sent: Monday, October 20, 2008 11:12 AM
To: [e-mail]
Subject: Plug In America October Newsletter



In this edition:

Hail to the Bailout-Plug Ins Included
Funding for banks has been getting a lot of attention lately, but the historic Congressional bailout package also..
2009 Plug In Prius Auction to Benefit Plug In America
In early November, the Green Car Company of Bellevue, WA will auction on eBAY the first in a series of 2009 Plug In Prius..

Seeking Alpha Stock Market Email Alerts FAQ

how do I change the e-mail address I use for seeking alpha alerts, etc...?

Google Patent Taps Ocean's Power

too bad Pelamis is not listed, company right here in Pennington, New Jersey is one I recommend that has many patents, trading at $7.28/shr:
ticker OPTT (see
below) utilizing the ocean waves for energy:

BUSINESS SUMMARY
Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. engages in the development and commercialization of proprietary systems that generate electricity by harnessing the renewable energy of ocean waves. The company's product portfolio includes utility PowerBuoy system, which is designed to supply electricity to a local or regional electric power grid; and autonomous PowerBuoy system that is designed to generate power for use independent of the power grid in remote locations. Its customers include public utilities, independent power producers, and other governmental entities and agencies.
The company markets and sells its products in the United States and internationally. Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. was incorporated in 1984 and is headquartered in Pennington, New Jersey.

Ocean Power Technologies (OPT) is a leading renewable energy company specializing in cost-effective, advanced, and environmentally sound offshore wave power technology. The electrical power generated by OPT's technology is key to meeting the energy needs of utilities, independent power producers and the public sector.

OPT's PowerBuoyR system extracts the natural energy in ocean waves, and is based on the integration of patented technologies in hydrodynamics, electronics, energy conversion and computer control systems. The PowerBuoy is a "smart" system capable of responding to differing wave conditions.

The result is a leading edge, ocean-tested, proprietary system which generates reliable, clean, and environmentally-benefi... electricity.

OPT was founded by Dr. George W. Taylor and the late Dr. Joseph R. Burns and began commercial operations in 1994. OPT focuses on its proprietary PowerBuoyR technology, which captures wave energy using large floating buoys anchored to the sea bed and converts the energy into electricity using innovative power take-off systems.

Plethora of Commodities ETFs for Retail Investors

Another one from today's Forbes (HAP):
Funny Timing For Commodity ETF
Carl Delfeld, Chartwell Advisor 09.09.08, 1:05 PM ET

row2image



Dugg on Forbes.com
The View From Alaska - Forbes.com
Chavez Nationalizes Fuel Wholesalers - Forbes.com
Rio Tinto Fails The Green Test - Forbes.com
Hollywood's Best Stars For The Buck - Forbes.com
Visit The Forbes.com Digg Channel



The newest member of the Van Eck family of exchange-traded funds is the the Market Vectors-RVE Hard Assets Producers (amex: HAP - news - people ) ETF, which tracks the Rogers-Van Eck Hard Assets Producers Index.

This Rogers-Van Eck index was developed in concert with international investor Jim Rogers, who is well-known as a strategist inclined to have significant exposure to commodities and is negative on U.S. markets and the U.S. dollar.

For the month of July, the index was down roughly 11%, consistent with the pullback in commodities. The ETF basket presently contains 321 securities, and the top 10 companies account for 34% of total assets.

Maximize your portfolio's bounce as global stocks rally and protect it best you can while the bear still prowls. Click for a free trial of Chartwell Global ETF Advisor with model portfolios and new buys.

Energy accounts for 40% of exposure, agriculture is at 30%, and industrial and precious metals have a 21% weighting. The U.S. and Canada comprise 45% of exposure, and another 34 countries account for 26%.

In an interesting twist, the company weightings are done on a global-consumption basis, rather than the conventional market-cap basis.

As much as I disagree with Rogers on the future of the U.S. market and economy, this is a solid choice for investors looking for one ETF to cover what represents 15% of global GDP.

Other good choices are the iPath Dow Jones-AIG Commodity ETN (nyse: DJP - news - people ), which has only 20% exposure to oil and precious metals. I also like using country funds for commodity exposure; for example, holding the Chile Fund (nyse: CF - news - people ) for copper exposure.

Rather than try to time commodities, investors should use allocations as core holdings offering good diversification and low correlation to equity markets. Build incrementally, since prices are likely to fall more before the next leg of the secular bull market kicks in with a global recovery.

Special Offer: Which European markets will move substantially higher? How about Asian plays besides India and China? Latin America? Click here for recommended international equity portfolios--with country ETF allocations and hedging strategies to protect your gains--in Chartwell Global ETF Advisor.

Hong Kong Surges as Democrats Hold Ground
The iShares MSCI Hong Kong (nyse: EWH - news - people ) gapped 2.8% higher at the open Monday, as pro-democracy candidates overcame low voter turnout to do better than expected in Hong Kong's Legislative Council elections Sunday, thereby retaining a critical veto power.

The pro-Beijing forces were able to maintain a majority in the legislature, in part by basking in the nationalistic glow from last month's Olympic games.

Hong Kong voters selected the legislature's 60 members, half of which are directly elected by popular vote, and half chosen by a complicated formula of "functional constituencies" representing professional interest groups, such as bankers and industry.

Only 45% of registered voters took part in this year's ballot, compared with more than 55% in the last election, which took place in 2004 amid deep dissatisfaction with the Beijing-backed government.

While low turnout is normally deadly for the pro-democracy camp, it managed to hold on to 23 seats in the elections, down from 25 four years ago. Although it is far from the majority needed to reject government legislation, it gives the democrats power to veto changes to Hong Kong's "mini constitution," the Basic Law.

Global Slowdown Clobbers Mega-Cap ETFs
Last week was a particularly rough week for global markets and for the mega-cap stocks that make up ETFs, like the iShares S&P Global 100 Index ETF (nyse: IOO - news - people ), which comprises 100 multinational companies selected based on the firm's percentage of foreign assets, revenues and employees. The average market cap is $10 billion, and the fund's holdings are split just about evenly between U.S. and international companies.

We may not technically be in a global recession, but GDP growth projections are coming down pretty much across the board on a daily basis. European companies and Japan are suffering just as much if not more than the U.S., as growth and profit numbers mirror the weakness in global consumer demand.

While the S&P 500 and the Dow each lost about 3% last week, European ETFs lost about 6.8%; Asia fell about 6.5% and Latin America gave up 9.2%. Having a fair amount in cash, trading more actively and allocating limited assets to inverse ETFs has led to the Chartwell World Country ETF Rotation being down about 4.9% year-to-date.

If the iShares S&P Global 100 Index ETF can hold two-year support near $65, it could be a great vehicle to play the coming global rebound, even if its exact arrival time is unclear.

Carl Delfeld is editor of Chartwell ETF Advisor and global strategist for New England Research & Management. Click here for international investment analysis and ETF portfolio recommendations in Chartwell ETF Advisor.

Why Commodities May Be Nearing a Turning Point

Commodity ETF hit markets today by Jim Rogers, what timing!
Funny Timing For Commodity ETF
Carl Delfeld, Chartwell Advisor 09.09.08, 1:05 PM ET

row2image



Dugg on Forbes.com
The View From Alaska - Forbes.com
Chavez Nationalizes Fuel Wholesalers - Forbes.com
Rio Tinto Fails The Green Test - Forbes.com
Hollywood's Best Stars For The Buck - Forbes.com
Visit The Forbes.com Digg Channel



The newest member of the Van Eck family of exchange-traded funds is the the Market Vectors-RVE Hard Assets Producers (amex: HAP - news - people ) ETF, which tracks the Rogers-Van Eck Hard Assets Producers Index.

This Rogers-Van Eck index was developed in concert with international investor Jim Rogers, who is well-known as a strategist inclined to have significant exposure to commodities and is negative on U.S. markets and the U.S. dollar.

For the month of July, the index was down roughly 11%, consistent with the pullback in commodities. The ETF basket presently contains 321 securities, and the top 10 companies account for 34% of total assets.

Maximize your portfolio's bounce as global stocks rally and protect it best you can while the bear still prowls. Click for a free trial of Chartwell Global ETF Advisor with model portfolios and new buys.

Energy accounts for 40% of exposure, agriculture is at 30%, and industrial and precious metals have a 21% weighting. The U.S. and Canada comprise 45% of exposure, and another 34 countries account for 26%.

In an interesting twist, the company weightings are done on a global-consumption basis, rather than the conventional market-cap basis.

As much as I disagree with Rogers on the future of the U.S. market and economy, this is a solid choice for investors looking for one ETF to cover what represents 15% of global GDP.

Other good choices are the iPath Dow Jones-AIG Commodity ETN (nyse: DJP - news - people ), which has only 20% exposure to oil and precious metals. I also like using country funds for commodity exposure; for example, holding the Chile Fund (nyse: CF - news - people ) for copper exposure.

Rather than try to time commodities, investors should use allocations as core holdings offering good diversification and low correlation to equity markets. Build incrementally, since prices are likely to fall more before the next leg of the secular bull market kicks in with a global recovery.

Special Offer: Which European markets will move substantially higher? How about Asian plays besides India and China? Latin America? Click here for recommended international equity portfolios--with country ETF allocations and hedging strategies to protect your gains--in Chartwell Global ETF Advisor.

Hong Kong Surges as Democrats Hold Ground
The iShares MSCI Hong Kong (nyse: EWH - news - people ) gapped 2.8% higher at the open Monday, as pro-democracy candidates overcame low voter turnout to do better than expected in Hong Kong's Legislative Council elections Sunday, thereby retaining a critical veto power.

The pro-Beijing forces were able to maintain a majority in the legislature, in part by basking in the nationalistic glow from last month's Olympic games.

Hong Kong voters selected the legislature's 60 members, half of which are directly elected by popular vote, and half chosen by a complicated formula of "functional constituencies" representing professional interest groups, such as bankers and industry.

Only 45% of registered voters took part in this year's ballot, compared with more than 55% in the last election, which took place in 2004 amid deep dissatisfaction with the Beijing-backed government.

While low turnout is normally deadly for the pro-democracy camp, it managed to hold on to 23 seats in the elections, down from 25 four years ago. Although it is far from the majority needed to reject government legislation, it gives the democrats power to veto changes to Hong Kong's "mini constitution," the Basic Law.

Global Slowdown Clobbers Mega-Cap ETFs
Last week was a particularly rough week for global markets and for the mega-cap stocks that make up ETFs, like the iShares S&P Global 100 Index ETF (nyse: IOO - news - people ), which comprises 100 multinational companies selected based on the firm's percentage of foreign assets, revenues and employees. The average market cap is $10 billion, and the fund's holdings are split just about evenly between U.S. and international companies.

We may not technically be in a global recession, but GDP growth projections are coming down pretty much across the board on a daily basis. European companies and Japan are suffering just as much if not more than the U.S., as growth and profit numbers mirror the weakness in global consumer demand.

While the S&P 500 and the Dow each lost about 3% last week, European ETFs lost about 6.8%; Asia fell about 6.5% and Latin America gave up 9.2%. Having a fair amount in cash, trading more actively and allocating limited assets to inverse ETFs has led to the Chartwell World Country ETF Rotation being down about 4.9% year-to-date.

If the iShares S&P Global 100 Index ETF can hold two-year support near $65, it could be a great vehicle to play the coming global rebound, even if its exact arrival time is unclear.

Carl Delfeld is editor of Chartwell ETF Advisor and global strategist for New England Research & Management. Click here for international investment analysis and ETF portfolio recommendations in Chartwell ETF Advisor.