Lilguy

S&P's Best and Worst of 2008

Most interesting insight: 1/3 of the 15 "most successful" stocks were acquired during the year, and Rohm & Haas may still be.

At least one, H&R Block, was coming off a spectularly calamitous 2007--and had nowhere to go (other than bankruptcy) than up.

On the down side, financials and real estate accounted for most of the big losers--and I mean really BIG!

Several value consumer plays in the list, led by Wal-Mart as well as a few bio-techs, led by Amgen. I expect that, if money can be made in the market this year, the trend will be similar: buyouts, consumer staples, and healthcare bio-techs will outperform; stay away from financials and real estate.