Respirate

Buy and Hold Isn't Dead Yet

I appreciate your low-risk buy and hold strategy. Thanks for sharing it.

I must question your choice of Aetna in your investment group. They may be profitable and investable (yes to both), but Aetna is the kind of health insurer you hope others do NOT emulate. As a healthcare administrator and provider I can say Aetna is the poster child for poor operational performance on behalf of both health providers and the insured. Just an ugly company to deal with - there are better choices in this sector.

I'd also suggest Conoco Philips COP as a well-run buy and hold substitute for BP. COP is poised to drastically increase earnings when NG demand rises in step with a gradually improving economy. COP recently announced a 6% increase to an already generous dividend, coupled with the sale of $10B of productive assets to improve its balance sheet.

Discl.: Long COP