bluesmoke

How to Play Buffett's Big Bet on America

As the price of oil rises, I suspect you will see the trucking industry switch over to natural gas.

Buffett's BNI Purchase: Bearish Bet on the Economy?

He also paid a 30% premium to the market price. That tells me he definitely sees the promise in commodities for the long term. Great move.

The Problem with Being Wealthy

I've often wondered how the rich manage large amounts of cash. One of the main obstacles is the 250k cap on FDIC accounts.

With an over-leveraged economy, falling real estate prices, a weakening dollar, failing banks, ponzi schemes, and new taxes on the horizon, that leaves a lot of room to get kicked in the shorts.

Next Time, Let Goldman Fail

Amen to that. The incestuous relationship between GS and the financial arm of the government has gotten way too cozy.

When the Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get an Apple

I think another reason Macs are becoming popular - by hooking so many of the next generation on itunes & the iphone, they have developed brand loyalty. Once you realize how easy and dependable they are to use, why take a chance on something else?

The Big Picture

Fitz, another good article.

I have some friends visiting from England. They've been driving diesel vehicles for years and get upwards of 50+ mpg. Diesels can also "turn the clock" three times. That means the odometer resets 3 times! No problems starting in cold weather either. When they asked me the other day why the US hasn't shifted their energy policy in this (or any) direction that is more constructive, I don't have an answer. It's a very sad reflection of a schizophrenic energy policy controlled by special interests. Instead of forward thinking, everything is ass-backwards.

Why I'm Skeptical About Asset Allocation

I'm no expert, and maybe that weighs in my favor. The main problem I have with inflation-linked bonds, (and I am assuming you are talking about TIPS here), is the distorted yardstick by which the US government measures inflation. Several other factors like a falling dollar come into play as well. So although you may not consider commodities an asset class, energy stocks, MLP's, Royalty Trusts, and other securities that rise in value when the dollar falls, AND generate income, are a much more accurate reflection of the true state of the economy. Plus, many of these are based in foreign currencies. Besides, putting all or a majority of your assets in a dollar based portfolio is limiting diversification.

The Inflation / Deflation Forces Battles On

Very good article. You've have laid out both sides in terms that are easy to understand. I believe you are correct in your assumptions as well. Thanks.

Treasuries Rally as Riskier Assets Begin Showing Signs of Topping

I suspect you are right. However, as a long term investor one shouldn't try to time the market. That is a fool's game.

Diversification Isn't What It Used to Be

The old adage of having the proportion of bonds correlated to your age is a good one, yet many have never heard of it. (ie, if you are 50 years old, your portfolio should be invested 50% in bonds).

It's a brave new world. I have taken a few other steps - roughly 3-5% gold, and another 10% in monthly fixed income stocks, or mlp's. Looking at the current deficit, as the nation ages I believe income from a variety of sources will become more & more important.

Steve Jobs Returns to the Stage with Some Big Numbers to Share

What a great company. Steve Jobs, welcome back!

Natural Gas Will Be America’s Energy Salvation

You can lead a horse to water but you can't force it to drink. Sooner or later the US will emerge from its stupor and recognize the obvious. Mr. Fitzsimmons, do you care to comment?

Will the Real Mr. Buffett Please Stand Up?

Mr Buffet is no fool. He is keenly aware that as a figurehead of capitalism he needs to keep the investing public in the dark. He, along with everyone else, is just trying to buy time. If the truth regarding just how precarious this economy was revealed too soon, look out below.

Natural Gas Could Cure What Ails America

It is so painfully obvious. And SA writers like Mike Fitzsimmons have been ardent in their mission to educate anyone who will listen. Yet it seems like no one in Washington gets it.

The U.S. Banking Crisis Is Just Beginning

If I didn't know any better, I think you might be going a little negative...