by Markus

Some impulses for the weekend. What if … … the economy comes to a full halt even worse than now? Over six in ten Americans (latest Times survey) think that someone in their household will lose their job in the next year. That means six in ten people won’t buy anything other than basics. … [...]

by Gregory

US stock markets seem to be only concerned with domestic policies while neglecting the international aspect of this crisis (despite several alarm calls), and notably the gloomy world trade figures. Let’s analyse the last figures and then review why international capital flows may shape the dynamics of several asset classes in the medium term. As, [...]

by James

Two years ago, I would have laughed at this prospect, but by now I am more than ready for it. The major US banks need to be fully and temporarily nationalized. If Treasury succeeds with the plan it is developing, we may get partial nationalization. The latest capitalization involves an injection of convertible preferred shares [...]

by Markus

In my today´s weekly fund update  (CW08) I proposed a combination of both plans, the Geithner and the Roubini plan. Roubini himself must have read it and outlined how a combination of both can look like. CNBC: Dr. Doom: Nationalizing Banks is ‘Market Friendly’ Joint formula: using Geithners stress test for due diligence reasons to [...]

by Markus

“He brought his A-game tonight”  Even Republicans were applauding Obama to his speech held yesterday evening in front of the congress: Obama Address at the Congress | Feb 24thobject> Many summaries, live comments and twitter clips were published. http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/24/live-blog-obamas-address-to-congress/ http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/02/24/members-of-congress-twitter-through-obamas-big-speech/ Some personal comments on top: In the end he didn´t announce anything ground-breakingly new. He [...]

by Jürgen

Traditionally, the gas and electricity driven Utlities has proven to be a quite financially strong sector. More recently, however, crackles appeared in this recession proof shield, especially in Europe. Rumours? Ageing wrinkles, or changes in an industry that needs a facelift? A short review.

by James

Equities continue to bear the brunt of risk aversion and economic deterioration. The S&P 500 gave up another 6.9% last week, as economic data continued to disappoint, and Eastern Europe fears rose to the surface amongst broader market uncertainty. For its part, the DJIA closed below its 4Q09 low, visiting levels not seen for six [...]

by Gregory

This edition of weekly wrap is clearly dominated by Europe, with the German speaking players covering all fronts. The motto of the week: Artung, a stable performance during one week is not synomym with bigger rewards…          Man of the week: Josef Proll There was more than one active Austrian this week, but finally Josef Proll snatch the [...]