Tag Archives: Dan Solin

The financial media was all atwitter when Standard and Poor’s downgraded the credit rating of nine European countries on Jan. 13, 2012. France and Austria lost their triple-A rating. CNBC’s reaction was typical. It described this event as “a Black … Continue reading →

Brokers and advisors like to describe their activities in terms indicating the benefits they bestow upon their clients. “Wealth manager” is one of my favorites, because it conveys the impression that using them is likely to increase your wealth. Using … Continue reading →

The views of the Republicans running for office are getting a lot of air time. Whatever the relative merits of these candidates, investors might be misled by some of the spirited dialogue. Two issues stand out as having the potential … Continue reading →

Everyone wants to be a stock market winner. There were some big winners in 2011. Investors in US TIPS did great. This index tracks U.S. Treasury inflation-protected securities that have at least one year remaining to maturity, are rated investment … Continue reading →

As legend has it, when Einstein died, he met two men and a woman outside the pearly gates. Always one to strike up a conversation, he asked them about their IQs. The woman said her IQ was 190. Einstein was … Continue reading →

This is the time of year when the financial media goes into overdrive. You can expect no end of predictions for 2012. Some will be right. Others will be wrong. Those who are right will anoint themselves (or be anointed) … Continue reading →

Here is the harsh reality: 401(k) plans are a false crutch for employees. They simply don’t work, if you define “work” as providing funds that will permit retirement with dignity — if at all. According to Fidelity Investments, average balances … Continue reading →

The economy is reeling. Everyone is hungry for business. American firms are locked in intense competition with global competitors. A recent experience I had illustrates how the difference in cultural approaches towards business places American firms at a distinct disadvantage. … Continue reading →

A recent blog on CNBC almost made you feel sorry for active managers It referenced a study by Bank of America Merrill Lynch which found that active managers were having “a rough year.” Only 23 percent of large-cap managers beat … Continue reading →

What do these well known financial celebrities have in common: Jim Cramer, Larry Kudlow, Jeff Macke, Joe Kernan and Dylan Ratigan? They are all extremely confident. There is little personal vulnerability in their presentations. They provide their views on the … Continue reading →