Tag: Dollars and Sense
2014 was a good year financially
As 2014 closes, it is good to look back and see what kind of year it was. Generally speaking it was a good year...
Consumer confidence surges
Last Friday the University of Michigan consumer confidence survey registered its highest reading in eight years. This survey comes out twice monthly, and this...
Understanding mergers and investing
During periods of stock market strength merger activity among companies typically picks up. This has certainly been the case this year, as merger activity...
Foreign central bank moves boost stocks
Unless someone is closely attuned to economic policy, most people do not actively follow the moves of central banks. Not that many individuals follow...
Understanding the big drop in gasoline prices
The cost of a gallon of gasoline is probably the most recognized price we encounter. Most of us drive, and it is something we...
Changes in Japan impact financial markets
Last week was a good example of how international developments can impact our financial markets. Oftentimes news stories from across the world are interpreted...
Learning to avoid overconfidence, unnecessary fear
When it comes to investing people frequently fall into one of two categories. Some have expectations that are clearly excessive, while others are too...
Culver City resident to celebrate
Last Friday a national consumer confidence survey by the University of Michigan showed the best reading in seven years. This survey comes out twice...
Stock market turbulence has returned
Last week saw a significant decline in the market averages. For much of this year markets have been unusually calm, though that has certainly...
Interpreting employment data
For those who are working or looking for work it is generally good to have some sense of how the labor market is performing....