Weekly Market Commentary – March 14, 2011

Weekly Market Update
Week of March 14, 2011

THE MARKETS:

On Friday, an 8.9 earthquake rocked Japan and generated a 30-foot-high tsunami that devastated the northeastern coast.  In consideration of the widespread destruction, human suffering is the issue of primary concern at this time.  Simultaneously though, it is crucial to consider the economic impact of this natural disaster.  What affects are we already experiencing?

Though Japan’s recession-burdened stock markets dropped,[1] the expected scope of the rebuilding effort sent U.S. stocks climbing on expectations for increased demand for materials.[2]  Interestingly, we also saw a $3 a barrel drop in oil prices inspired by anticipation of decreased Japanese demand.[3]  At the same time, some speculate that the probable increase in Japan’s spending has the potential to propel their already strong currency, the yen, higher as Japanese money invested abroad is applied to rebuilding.[4]  How long and to what extent such factors will influence the world economy remains to be seen.

The earthquake also took a heavy toll on the nation’s industries, forcing Toyota, Honda and Nissan to halt operations at most of their domestic plants.[5]   These shutdowns come at a time of strong recovery in global consumption (U.S. auto sales clocked their strongest pace in 18 months in February[6]).  Also suspending operations are Panasonic, Sony, and Toshiba.[7]  A bigger impact will likely come in the weeks ahead as the disruptions make their way through the global supply chain.

In today’s world, we exist as part of a connected, global community.  And although it is fitting to discuss how international situations can have an impact domestically, we should also remember that such analysis cannot diminish Japan’s catastrophic losses.  While the weeks and months ahead will gradually reveal the extent of the disaster, it will also give us a chance to demonstrate our humanity and generosity.

SPECIAL NOTE:  While we do not want to discourage you from donating toward relief efforts in Japan, we urge you to exercise caution. Whenever a natural disaster strikes, there are always unscrupulous individuals who will attempt to take advantage of the generosity of those who wish to give.  Many reputable sources warn donors to be cautious when making contributions to relief agencies and charities.  Please visit the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance for more information about how to donate safely. See www.bbb.org/charity.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:                                                                                              Tuesday – Empire State Mfg Survey, Import and Export Prices, Treasury International Capital, Housing Market Index, FOMC Meeting          Announcement                                                             Wednesday – Housing Starts, Producer Price Index, EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – Consumer Price Index, BOE Announcement, International Trade, Jobless Claims, Industrial Production, Leading Indicators, Philadelphia Fed Survey       

Data as of 03/11/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-1.28	3.71	13.4	0.36	0.57
Dow	-1.03	4.03	13.5	1.75	1.32
NASDAQ	-2.48	2.36	14.6	4.01	3.23
MSCI EAFE	-3.09	1.68	7.85	-0.88	2.02
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.49	N/A	3.72	4.76	4.93

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

HEADLINES:

Professional-football players disbanded their union and filed a lawsuit against the NFL and team owners on Friday.  The collapse of the talks makes it likely that NFL owners will bar their players from turning up to work and withholding their paychecks. The players filed suit for the right to be allowed to work.[8]

U.S. consumer sentiment fell to its lowest level since October 2010 as gasoline prices rose. The preliminary March reading on the overall index on consumer sentiment came in at 68.2, down from 77.5 in February.  The numbers were in contrast to the retail sales report earlier Friday, which showed sales posted their largest gain in four months in February.[9]

House Republicans are preparing another stopgap-spending bill that would cut $6 billion from current levels and keep the government running for three more weeks.  The stopgap-spending bill would buy lawmakers more time after existing funding authority expires on March 18 to agree on final spending levels for the 2011 fiscal year, which ends September 30. The Senate would have to approve it as well before it could be sent to President Obama to sign into law.[10]

Forbes 2011 Billionaires List breaks two records: total number of listees (1,210) and combined wealth ($4.5 trillion).  Mexico’s Carlos Slim Helu, added $20.5 billion to his fortune, and is now worth $74 billion. Bill Gates (#2) and Warren Buffett (#3) both added a more modest $3 billion to their piles and are now worth $56 billion and $50 billion, respectively.[11]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“In separateness lies the world’s great misery, in compassion lies the world’s true strength.” – Buddha
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Maple Ricotta Flan

From: Better Homes and Gardens
This 5-ingredient dessert can be pulled together in just 15 minutes.

Servings: Makes 6 servings.

Prep: 15 mins

Total: 45 mins

Ingredients:

1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. pure maple syrup

4   beaten eggs

1 15-oz. container ricotta cheese

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Divide the 1/4 cup maple syrup among six 6-ounce custard cups; tilt custard cups to coat bottoms evenly.

2. In a bowl combine eggs, cheese, sugar, vanilla, and remaining teaspoon maple syrup. Mix until well combined but not foamy. Place the custard cups in a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Divide egg mixture among custard cups. Sprinkle with nutmeg. Place the baking dish on an oven rack. Pour boiling water into the baking dish around custard cups to a depth of 1 inch. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the centers comes out clean.|

3. Remove cups from water. Cool completely in custard cups. Cover and chill until serving time. To unmold flans, loosen edges with a knife, slipping point of knife down sides to let air in. Invert a dessert plate over each flan; turn custard cup and plate over together.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Putting Yips?

Once fear gets a hold on your nervous system, it can seem like it will never end. Goodbye confidence.  What can you do?  Solve the problem by taking two actions:

1)    Spot the fear early. When spotted, step back, take a breath, and restart your routine. Once your body/mind learns you won’t give in to your nerves, it actually gets the message.

2)    Put your mind on the present, not the future. Don’t think about everything that can go wrong with your shot. Just focus on your movement. 

Following this routines brings you into the “now.” Use this to combat fear.

 

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues.  If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

By clicking on these links, you will leave our server as they are located on another server. We have not independently verified the information available through this link. The link is provided to you as a matter of interest. Please click on the links below to leave and proceed to the selected site.

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[1] http://finance.fortune.cnn.com/2011/03/11/japans-fiscal-fix-deepens/

[2]http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703597804576194130989423722.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

[3] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703597804576194452970557580.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

[4] http://www.cnbc.com/id/42045635

[5] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704296604576196140410967916.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLTopStories

[6] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703597804576194101663283550.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLTopStories

[7] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704296604576196140410967916.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLTopStories

[8] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/nfl-players-union-to-disband-court-case-follows-2011-03-11

[9] http://www.cnbc.com/id/42028477

[10] http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/03/11/us-usa-congress-spending-idUSTRE7205MS20110311

[11] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41989924/ns/business-forbescom/

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Weekly Market Commentary – 2/14/2011

Weekly Market Update
Week of February 14, 2011

THE MARKETS:

Wall Street started last week holding its breath while waiting to see whether Hosni Mubarak would step down as Egypt’s president. Bowing to pro-democracy protests, Mubarak resigned on Friday, ending 30 years of authoritarian rule in the Middle East’s most populous country.[1]

As fireworks burst over Cairo’s Tahrir Square, there was a collective sigh of relief on Wall Street, while the benchmark averages rose to finish Friday’s session with weekly gains. U.S. stocks climbed to fresh 2 1/2-year closing highs after the resignation of Mubarak removed a layer of uncertainty from global markets.[2] The Dow had a weekly advance of 1.5%, while the S&P 500 rose 1.4% and the Nasdaq added 1.5%.

Analysts and investors agree that Mubarak’s resignation dramatically reduces geopolitical risk and uncertainty from the region.[3] Reflecting this, oil prices fell following the news in Egypt, with crude dropping to $85.16 a barrel in midday trading Friday. Other dollar-denominated commodities, including gold and silver, also drifted lower following Mubarak’s resignation. Gold prices slid $5.30, settling at $1,357.20 an ounce.[4]

On another topic, how does starting a new week on St. Valentine’s Day traditionally affect the markets? Interestingly, the “day of love” hasn’t customarily shown much “love” to investors; at least when using the S&P 500 index as a gauge. According to Howard Silverblatt, a senior index analyst at S&P Indices, going back to 1928, February 14 trading days only notched gains on the S&P 38.7% of the time against a historical daily rate of 52.03%. Here’s an interesting caveat though – in looking at the 11 Valentine’s Days that occurred on the first trading day of the week, the S&P 500 logged a gain 63.4% of the time.[5] While we’re certainly not trying to make a prediction, it is interesting to see what history can teach us about market behaviors.

From war and peace one week, to love and chocolates the next, it just goes to show that almost any world event has potential to affect people’s investments.  Like everything in life, weathering all the little ups and downs requires intelligence, patience, and a cool head.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Tuesday – Retail Sales, Empire State Mfg. Survey, Import and Export Prices, Redbook, Treasury International Capital, Business Inventories, Housing Market Index   Wednesday – Housing Starts, Producer Price Index, Industrial Production, EIA Petroleum Status Report, FOMC Minutes
Thursday – Consumer Price Index, Jobless Claims, Industrial Production, Leading Indicators,   Philadelphia Fed Survey                                                                                     

Data as of 02/11/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	1.39	5.69	23.2	0.98	0.11
Dow	1.50	6.01	20.9	2.48	1.38
NASDAQ	1.45	5.90	29.0	4.84	1.37
MSCI EAFE	0.07	4.48	17.6	1.71	N/A
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.65	N/A	3.73	4.58	5.02

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

HEADLINES:
Pandora Media Inc., filed papers Friday to raise as much as $100 million in an initial public offering of stock. Pandora offers an Internet service that creates playlists of songs based on user feedback.  The Oakland, Calif.-based company said it now has more than 80 million registered users, and “a more than 50% share of all Internet radio listening time among the top 20 stations and networks in the United States.”[6]

The euro fell to a three-week low against the dollar as speculation increased that Portugal will follow Ireland in tapping the European Financial Stability Facility.  Yields on 10-year Portuguese debt climbed on Feb. 10 to 7.64 percent, the highest level since the introduction of the euro in 1999.[7]

U.S. consumer sentiment rose to its highest level in eight months in early February, boosted by recent tax cuts and optimism about the economy.  The preliminary February reading for the overall index on consumer sentiment came in at 75.1, up from 74.2 in January, the highest level since June 2010.[8]

The Commerce Department says the deficit in December increased 5.9% to $40.6 billion. It grew because the 2.6% gain in imports outpaced the 1.8% rise in exports.  For 2010, the U.S. trade deficit rose to $497.8 billion, a 32.8% surge and the biggest annual percentage gain since 2000.[9]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge.” – Thomas Carlyle

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Six-Layer Brownie Bars

From: Betty Crocker

Layers of decadence over easy-mix brownie batter create this ultimate brownie bar.

 

Servings: 36 bars

Prep: 20 mins

Total: 3 hrs 10 mins

 

Ingredients:

1 box Betty Crocker® Original Supreme brownie mix (1 pound 6.5 ounces)

1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted

1 egg

1 cup coconut

1 cup toffee bits

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup chopped pecans

1 can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated, 14 ounces)

 

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottom only of 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray or shortening. (For easier cutting, line pan with foil, then grease foil on bottom only of pan.)

2. In large bowl, stir brownie mix, pouch of chocolate syrup, butter and egg until well blended. Press into pan. Bake 10 minutes.

3. Top with coconut, toffee bits, chocolate chips and pecans. Drizzle evenly with condensed milk. Bake 35 to 40 minutes longer or until edges are bubbly and center is set. Cool completely, about 2 hours. For bars, cut into 9 rows by 4 rows.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

SET YOUR ALIGNMENT

Many shots that are hit to the right or left get blamed on the swing when they are actually a product of poor alignment. In order to hit the ball at a target, you must line up correctly.

Before hitting, stand behind your ball about 3 to 5 feet so it is between you and your intended target. Now pick an object on the ground no more than two feet in front of the ball, (a golf tee, blade of grass, leaf, or anything else) that lies on the imaginary line that goes from your ball to your intended target.

Walk up and address the ball while pretending the object on the ground is your target. Align the lines on your club face so they are perpendicular to the object. Do not even look at your real target until you have established your address, and then be sure not to change your stance.

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues.  If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

*Stock investing involves market risk including loss of principal.  The fast price swings of commodities will result in significant volatility in an investor’s holdings.  Government bonds and Treasury Bills are guaranteed by the US Government as to the timely payment of principal and interest and, if held to maturity, offer a fixed rate of return and fixed principal value.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

 

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[1] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/wall-street-looks-to-less-anxious-week-2011-02-12

[2] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-12/dollar-advances-as-egypt-european-debt-stoke-demand-for-safety.html

[3] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/11/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[4] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/11/markets/food_prices_commodities/index.htm

[5] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/wall-street-looks-to-less-anxious-week-2011-02-12

[6] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/internet-music-firm-pandora-files-for-ipo-2011-02-11

[7] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-12/dollar-advances-as-egypt-european-debt-stoke-demand-for-safety.html

[8] http://www.cnbc.com/id/41530980

[9] http://www.cnbc.com/id/41529859

 

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Weekly Market Commentary – 2/7/2011

Weekly Market Update
Week of February 7, 2011

THE MARKETS:

In spite of ongoing turmoil in Egypt and the Middle East, the markets continued their gain last week.  For the period ending February 4th, the Dow rose 2.3%, the S&P 500 gained 2.7%, and the Nasdaq climbed 3.1%[1] reflecting elevated optimism in the markets.  The AAII Sentiment Survey for last week shows that 51.5% of investors are feeling bullish, up 9.5% from the week of January 24th. That’s well above the historical average of 39%.[2]  

Indeed, this optimism is even more remarkable in light of last week’s jobs report which has been subject to conflicting opinions and interpretations.  Case in point: According to a MarketWatch headline from Friday, the “job crisis isn’t over”,[3] while a cnnmoney.com headline from the same day touted that, “the job market is getting better.”[4] Each headline could be considered accurate, but clearly they offer different slants. Though the rate of hiring did not show a notable increase, the unemployment rate still fell to 9.0%[5] – bad news and good news at the same time.  Some analysts predict that bad weather across the U.S. is partially to blame, with more than 850,000 workers prevented from working at the time the survey was conducted.[6]  Other explanations have also been cited, and as a result, it appears that many are waiting for February’s report for clarification before jumping to conclusions.

Recent events, both within the U.S. and internationally, illustrate a noteworthy aspect of investing: It is impossible to predict how the stock market will react to news.  Such an optimistic week in light of Egyptian strife and a conflicting jobs report is a pleasant surprise. It seems that the market has had time to price in geopolitical risks in Egypt and sluggish jobs growth and found such factors to be no immediate threat.[7]  Clearly, the headlines and the stock market do not always move in tandem. This is a good fact to remember when evaluating how much credence should be given to sensational news reports.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR

Tuesday – Redbook
Wednesday – Bank Reserve Settlement, EIA Petroleum Status
Thursday – BOE Announcement, Jobless Claims, Wholesale Trades, Treasury Budget                                                                                       Friday – International Trade, Consumer Sentiment

 

 

 

 

Data as of 02/04/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	2.71	4.23	23.3	0.74	-0.29
Dow	2.27	4.45	20.9	2.41	1.13
NASDAQ	3.07	4.39	30.3	4.48	0.41
MSCI EAFE	3.16	3.93	15.7	-0.41	1.56
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.33	N/A	3.61	4.53	5.14

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

 

HEADLINES:

The Green Bay Packers won its fourth Superbowl  title in a 31-25 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.  The Vince Lombardi Trophy is headed back to Titletown for the first time in 14 years.[8]

Super Bowl-related consumer spending will reach $10.1 billion this year, the National Retail Federation says. The Washington-based trade group cites a survey conducted by its Retail Advertising and Marketing Association division that says the average consumer will spend $59.33 on game-related merchandise, apparel and snacks, up from $52.63 last year.[9]

Hackers have repeatedly penetrated the computers running Nasdaq during the past year.  Though the exchange’s trading platform was not violated and no information has been compromised, a federal investigation is underway.[10]   

Businesses’ unemployment-insurance payments rose 37% in 2010.  Last year, the amount employers paid into state unemployment-insurance funds rose 34%.  Combined with the increase in total wages, businesses paid out $43 billion.[11]

On Friday, Bank of America appointed a new foreclosure and loan modifications czar, and created a new unit to oversee problem home loans.  The new unit creates a seventh major division at the bank and will be overseen by Terry Laughlin.  The move splits the largest U.S. bank by assets’ mortgage business: one focused on new and current mortgages, and another dedicated to foreclosures.[12]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” –Winston Churchill

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Roasted Pepper and Artichoke Pizza

From: Diabetic Living

Artichoke hearts and goat cheese make this chicken pizza good for entertaining. It’s meant to be a main dish but it could also be a party appetizer.

Servings: 8 servings

Prep: 15 mins

Total: 35 mins

Ingredients:

1 6- to 6-1/2-ounce package pizza crust mix

1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil, crushed

1/2 cup pizza sauce

1 cup coarsely chopped or shredded cooked chicken (about 5 ounces)

1 6-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped

1 cup roasted red and/or yellow sweet peppers, cut into strips

1/4 cup sliced green onions or chopped red onion

1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (2 ounces)

4 ounces semisoft goat cheese (chevre), crumbled

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Grease a large baking sheet; set aside. Prepare pizza crust according to package directions, except stir oregano into dry mix. With floured hands, pat dough into a 15×10-inch rectangle on prepared baking sheet, building up edges slightly (crust will be thin). Bake for 7 minutes.

2. Spread pizza sauce evenly over crust. Top with chicken, artichokes, roasted peppers, and green onion. Top with mozzarella cheese and goat cheese.

3. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes more or until edges of crust are golden brown. Makes 8 servings.

 

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

 

WRIST ACTION

Be careful not to flex the wrists when chipping and putting. Golfers usually do not even realize they are flexing their wrists during these shots. When this happens, controlling distance becomes almost impossible, loft will be incorrect at impact, and putts lose true roll and consistent distance control.

Always keep your wrist solid and avoid flexing them for putts or chip shots. This is imperative to achieve consistency.

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues.  If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

*Stock investing involves market risk including loss of principal.  The fast price swings of commodities will result in significant volatility in an investor’s holdings.  Government bonds and Treasury Bills are guaranteed by the US Government as to the timely payment of principal and interest and, if held to maturity, offer a fixed rate of return and fixed principal value.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

---

[1] www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stocks-rise-extending-weekly-gains-to-2-2011-02-04?dist=afterbell

[2] www.aaii.com/SentimentSurvey

[3] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/only-thing-we-know-is-job-crisis-isnt-over-2011-02-04?dist=afterbell

[4] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/news/economy/unemployment_decline_mystery/index.htm

[5] www.money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/news/economy/unemployment_decline_mystery/index.htm

[6] www.marketwatch.com/story/only-thing-we-know-is-job-crisis-isnt-over-2011-02-04?dist=afterbell

[7] www.money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[8] http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/41450378/ns/sports-super_bowl_xlv/

[9] http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2011/02/06/super-bowl-consumer-spending-to-top-10b.html

[10]www.online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704709304576124502351634690.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

[11] www.blogs.wsj.com/economics/2011/02/05/number-of-the-week-businesses-unemployment-taxes-rise/

[12] www.cnbc.com/id/41430991

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Weekly Market Commentary – Jannuary 24, 2011

Weekly Market Update
Week of January 24, 2011

THE MARKETS:

While the recovery continues to burn brighter, it’s no thanks to the rising cost of gasoline.  Most consumers are cringing over prices at the pump and, as a nationwide economic marker, it affects nearly everyone. 

Gas prices hit almost $3.12/gallon on Friday, less than a dollar below the all-time high of about $4.11/gallon in July 2008.[1]  Current prices have risen 12 cents a gallon (4%) in the last month alone and 39 cents (14%) over the last year.  Crude oil has risen on a similar track and is currently trading at just under $90 a barrel.[2]

Though American consumers are paying the price, international oil demand and lack of supply are primarily responsible for the rising cost.  Last year, worldwide demand hit a record of more than 87 million barrels a day, largely driven by strong growth in India, China, and the Middle East.  Simultaneously, supply was constricted by the drilling moratorium in the Gulf of Mexico following the BP disaster, slow production growth in non-OPEC countries, and OPEC production controls.[3]

Gas prices are proving to be a critical, but unpredictable element in the economic recovery.  Analysts are predicting prices to range from $3.20 to $3.75/gallon by spring, just when Americans typically hit the road.[4]  Just as positive consumer sentiment can be tempered by the daily reminders of rising prices, there is also an unknown tipping point for when those prices take a toll on spending.[5]  

While all this talk about rising gas prices may have you feeling less than enthusiastic, the overall economic outlook is still positive and the stock market is performing well. While some indexes fell slightly for the week, the Dow climbed 0.72%, continuing its longest winning streak since April of last year.[6] At least for now, rising gas prices aren’t creating a significant drag on the economic recovery.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Tuesday – Redbook, S&P Case Shiller HPI, Consumer Confidence
Wednesday – New Home Sales, EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – Durable Goods Orders, Jobless Claims, Pending Home Sales                Friday – GDP, Employment Cost Index, Consumer Sentiment

Data as of 01/21/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-0.76	2.04	14.9	0.35	-0.44
Dow	0.72	2.54	14.3	2.26	1.21
NASDAQ	-2.39	1.38	18.7	3.93	-0.29
MSCI EAFE	-0.35	1.83	7.12	-0.43	1.32
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.33	N/A	3.61	4.36	5.17

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

 

HEADLINES:

Facebook raised $1.5 billion from Goldman Sachs and Digital Sky Technologies, giving the company an estimated value of $50 billion.  Facebook confirmed that it will begin filing public financial reports by April 2012, a move likely indicative of an IPO.[7]

A 1963 Pontiac ambulance that supposedly carried the body of President John F. Kennedy after his assassination was sold at a Scottsdale, Ariz., auction Saturday night for $132,000.[8]

Existing home sales jumped 12% in December, the fifth month of gains in the past six months.  While the rates are higher than expected, the median price of homes has fallen by 1% and is still down 2.9% from a year ago.[9]

Thirty-second advertising spots for 2011’s Super Bowl XLV will cost about $3 million each.  This year’s ads contain a record number from the auto industry, while the largest advertisers include Anheuser-Busch and Dot-com firms.  Many will include online features with contest components.[10]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“There is no such thing in anyone’s life as an unimportant day.” – Alexander Woollcott
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Gorgonzola and Toasted Walnut Spread 

From: Betty Crocker
The fabulous flavor of toasted walnuts infuses every bite of this rich and creamy spread.

Servings:  16 servings (2 tablespoons spread and 2 bread or fruit slices each).

Total: 10 mins

Ingredients:

1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese

1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounce)

3 tablespoons half-and-half

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

French bread slices

Apple and pear slices
Directions:

1. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the Gorgonzola cheese for garnish. In food processor, place cream cheese, remaining Gorgonzola cheese, half-and-half and pepper. Cover and process until blended.

2. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the walnuts for garnish. Stir remaining walnuts into cheese mixture. Spoon into shallow serving bowl. Sprinkle with reserved Gorgonzola cheese, walnuts and the parsley. Serve with bread slices and apple slices.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Cut the Tension

Tension in your golf swing can cause you to lose distance and accuracy. By executing certain fundamentals correctly, tension is avoided.

At a basic level you can decrease tension by working on a proper grip. A grip that has proper tension is achieved by doing the following: Place the grip in the fingers of both hands. With the bottom hand, start the grip in the middle of the fingers. Avoid the palm. Also, place the thumb of the top hand off to the side, away from the target, and place the bottom thumb on the other side of the grip, closest to the target. The thumbs have many nerves at the tips. If the thumbs run directly down the center of the grip, you trigger those nerves. The arms tense up and you now have tension.

Your goal should be to achieve a light grip. If you maintain a light grip during the swing, you will avoid any swing characteristics that cause tension. If you use a tight grip then you also tense your forearm muscles, and this automatically opens the face of the club causing pushed shots.

Parting thought… RELAX.

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues.  If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

---

[1] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/news/economy/thebuzz/index.htm

[2] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/markets/gasoline_prices_rising/index.htm

[3] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/markets/gasoline_prices_rising/index.htm

[4] www.abcnews.go.com/Business/t/story?id=12731383

[5] www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/01/22/earlyshow/saturday/main7271761.shtml

[6] http://blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/01/21/data-points-us-markets-340/

[7] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/technology/facebook_funding/

[8] http://money.cnn.com/2011/01/23/autos/jfk_ambulance_sale/index.htm

[9] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/20/real_estate/existing_home_sales/index.htm

[10] www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/super-bowl-2011-ads-expand-into-social-media-2191378.html

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Weekly Market Update – Special Edition

Weekly Market Update
SPECIAL EDITION – 2010 IN REVIEW

THE MARKETS:
2010 was truly a year for the history books! The Standard & Poor’s 500 began January at 1115, and then crisscrossed that line 165 times to eventually end the ride with its finest December performance in 19 years. The Dow’s second-straight annual increase was equally dramatic, with almost half of its climb (5.2%) occurring in December.[1] 
The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. Indexes cannot be invested into. Chart is for illustration purposes only.

More than a few factors influenced the roller coaster ride of last year. Here are a few of the highlights: [2]

January – Stocks start out looking good at 15-month highs.

February – European debt concerns take center stage as investors fear Greece will default and trigger a landslide that continues into Portugal, Italy, Ireland and Spain. Anxiety about these areas tug at the markets all year.

April – In a series of left hooks, the SEC files charges against Goldman-Sachs related to improper sale of securities tied to subprime mortgages, the BP oil spill fiasco begins, and Greece requests a $53 billion bailout.

May – Wall Street experiences the infamous “Flash Crash” that sends the Dow plunging almost 1,000 points in just a matter of minutes.

July – Stocks sink to 2010 lows as June’s jobs report disappoints. President Obama signs the Frank-Dodd Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act into law, enacting the most far-reaching financial reform since the 1930s.

November – Republicans win back the House in mid-term elections – a shift in power that is generally seen as a win for Wall Street. The Fed unveils a $600 billion bond-buying stimulus program called quantitative easing, and the Dow and Nasdaq touch 2-year highs.

December – President Obama signs the $858 billion tax cut deal into law. Stocks end the year on a high note with the S&P up 12%, the Dow up 10%, and the Nasdaq up 17%.

As we ride a wave of optimism into 2011, there are still a number of challenges to face.  The Fed’s QE2 policy has many experts increasingly worried about inflation. Home prices are falling again, leading to questions about a double-dip in the housing market recovery.  And the economy continues to suffer from one of the longest job droughts in our nation’s history, with the monthly unemployment rate lingering above 9% for 19 straight months.[3]

Investors will also be paying attention to politics and global economics as the year begins. Congress will return this week with Republicans in control of the House, and while investors are hoping the new political landscape will deliver business-friendly policies, there’s also the chance of political gridlock. In addition, Euro zone debt and China’s attempts to rein in inflation without derailing progress pose potential hurdles to overcome.[4]

All things considered, the future looks bright for 2011. Bullish sentiment toward the stock market is spreading and investors are beginning to put more money into it than they are pulling out.[5]  There has been a recent decrease in unemployment claims which are currently at their lowest level since July 2008.[6]  And corporate earnings are strong, with a 32% growth rate estimated for S&P 500 companies in 2010’s fourth quarter.[7]

The new year is beginning on a more positive note than many investors could have predicted given the challenges of 2010. And while we hope the economy and the stock market maintains its positive momentum, history teaches us that ups and downs are part of life. Whatever we face in the year ahead, rest assured that we will maintain a watchful eye on any factors that have the potential to affect you. May a bright and prosperous 2011 be yours! 

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Tuesday – Motor Vehicle Sales, Redbook, Factory Orders
Wednesday – ISM Non-Mfg Index, EIA Petroleum Status
Thursday – Jobless Claims, Fed Balance Sheet, Money Supply
Friday – Employment Situation, Consumer Credit 

Data as of 12/29/2010	1-Week	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	0.07	12.78	0.15	-0.47
Dow	0.03	11.02	1.60	0.73
NASDAQ	-0.48	16.91	4.06	0.74
MSCI EAFE	0.68	4.90	-0.26	1.06
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.35	3.81	4.38	5.11

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language, and next year’s words await another voice, and to make an end is to make a beginning.” – T.S. Eliot

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

 Apple Fritters

From: Better Homes and Gardens

Servings: Makes 12 fritters.

Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

2   tart, medium cooking apples, such as Jonathan or Granny Smith

2/3 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1 egg

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon cooking oil

Shortening or cooking oil

Powdered sugar (optional)

Cinnamon sticks (optional)

Directions:

1. Core apples and cut each apple crosswise into 6 slices. Set slices aside.

2. In a large bowl combine flour, the 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, the lemon peel, and baking powder. In a medium bowl use a wire whisk or rotary beater to beat egg, milk, and the 1 teaspoon cooking oil until combined. Add egg mixture all at once to flour mixture; beat until smooth. Using a fork, dip apple rings into batter; drain off excess batter.

3. Fry 2 or 3 fritters at a time in deep hot fat (365 degrees F.) for 1 minute on each side or until golden, turning once with a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining fritters. Sprinkle warm fritters with sifted powdered sugar, if desired. Cool on wire racks. To serve, thread fritters onto cinnamon sticks, if desired. Makes 12 fritters.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

POINT OF IMPACT

Although there are many types of impact tape and gadgets you can put on the club face to show you where the ball hits, they have two things in common:

1. They are difficult to put on – especially when you are playing a round of golf.
2. They are expensive.

Here’s an easy, inexpensive way to know exactly where the ball is striking the face of your club:

Buy a small container of Johnson & Johnson baby powder. (The small plastic ones that moms carry in their purses are perfect because they fit anyplace in your golf bag.) When you are at the range or playing a round of golf and want to see the impact point, just pull out the powder and lightly dust the ball. After you hit, the point of impact will be marked on the face of the club.

 

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues.  If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

---

[1] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stocks-set-to-end-strong-year-with-minor-loss-2010-12-31

[2] http://money.cnn.com/2010/12/31/markets/2010_stock_market_review/index.htm

[3] http://money.cnn.com/2011/01/01/markets/2011_stock_market_lookahead/index.htms

[4] http://money.cnn.com/2011/01/01/markets/2011_stock_market_lookahead/index.htm

[5] http://money.cnn.com/2011/01/01/markets/2011_stock_market_lookahead/index.htm

[6] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/weekly-jobless-claims-drop-below-400000-2010-12-30

[7] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/wall-street-starts-2011-with-bulls-in-charge-2011-01-01

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Weekly Market Commentary – 12/20/2010

Weekly Market Update
Week of December 20, 2010

THE MARKETS:

After months of speculation about the future of Bush era tax cuts, closure finally came late Thursday when the House of Representatives approved an $858 billion tax package to extend them through 2012. The approval of the plan has been marked by an optimistic attitude in the markets and positive speculation about the future of the economic recovery. While the S&P 500 only edged up one point this week, it has gained nearly 6% since Obama agreed to compromise with Republicans on the tax plan[i], and all major indexes either closed at or touched 52-week highs at some point during the last five trading days.[ii]

The economy is also showing signs of gaining ground, as a slew of upbeat statistics – from rising retail sales to falling unemployment claims – indicate. The economy grew at an annualized pace of 2.5% in the third quarter, and expanded growth is expected into next year. In an interview late Friday, Former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan told Bloomberg: “The U.S. economy unquestionably has some momentum.  The fourth quarter looks good. The growth rate could be 3.5 percent or more.”[iii] He later expressed this pick up in the economy should lead to increased hiring, and that the unemployment rate should drop next year. This would certainly be a welcome development!

It will be interesting to see what affect the new tax bill has on stock market performance in the shortened trading week ahead.  Regardless of how things go, we hope you will relax and enjoy some quality time off with your family and friends.

NOTE: We will be providing more information on the new Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 soon. Stay tuned.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:[iv]
Tuesday – Redbook
Wednesday – GDP, Corporate Profits, Existing Home Sales, EIA Petroleum Status
Thursday – Durable Goods Orders, Personal Income and Outlays, Jobless Claims, Consumer Sentiment, New Home Sales, EIA Natural Gas
Friday – U.S. Holiday: Christmas Observed

Data as of 12/17/2010	1-Week	Y-T-D	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	0.28	11.5	13.5	-0.37	-0.52
Dow	0.72	10.2	11.5	1.13	1.01
NASDAQ	0.21	16.5	21.2	3.47	-0.04
MSCI EAFE	-0.10	2.58	4.69	-0.71	1.02
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.30	N/A	3.49	4.45	5.18

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

HEADLINES:
The largest forfeiture settlement in U.S. history has recovered about half of Bernard Madoff’s stolen money. Barbara Picower returned $7.2 billion from her deceased husband’s estate. Jeffry Picower was a Florida businessman who had been the single-largest beneficiary of the fraud.[v] 

Bank of America said it will not process payments intended for WikiLeaks despite threats from the group that their next large documents release will be bank information. In related news, WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange was released on bail this week from a jail in Britain, where he is fighting extradition to Sweden over alleged sexual offenses.[vi]

Americans spent $942 million online December 17, 61% more than they spent the same day last year, thanks to the more than 1,500 online merchants who participated in Free Shipping Day.[vii]

EU leaders outlined a plan for a new fund to fight future crises. Intended to take effect in 2013, the plan will replace the existing 750 billion euro ($998.8 billion) European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF).  The meeting failed to create measures to limit borrowing costs which have forced rescues of Greece and Ireland and threaten other high-debt countries on the euro-zone periphery.[viii]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“Keep steadily before you the fact that all true success depends at last upon yourself.” – Theodore T. Hunger

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Candy Crunch White Bark

From: Better Homes and Gardens

Servings: 1 pound
Prep: 20 mins
Total: 20 mins

Ingredients:
1 pound vanilla-flavor candy coating, cut up
3/4 cup crushed fruit-flavor candy canes

Directions:
1. Line a baking sheet with foil; set aside. Heat candy coating in a heavy medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until candy is melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

2. Stir in 1/2 cup of the crushed candy canes. Pour mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread mixture to about 3/8-inch thickness. Sprinkle with the remaining crushed candies.

3. Chill candy about 30 minutes or until firm. (Or, let candy stand at room temperature for several hours until firm.) Use foil to lift firm candy from the baking sheet; carefully break candy into pieces.

Store tightly covered up to 2 weeks. Makes 1 pound.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

BALL BELOW YOUR FEET

The ball-below-your-feet on a side hill lie is the most difficult of all sloping lies. The biggest mistake made when faced with this type of shot is bending the knees too much to reach the ball. With the knees bent too far you will have the tendency to rise up as you swing through, causing you to top the ball. To correct this tendency, try these steps:

1. Keep your normal knee flex, but bend a little more from the waist.
2. Keep the back swing short – if you try to swing to your normal position there will be a tendency to rise up.
3. Take one more club (use an 8 if you normally hit a 9 from that distance)
4. Aim to the left as the ball will have a tendency to fade or go to the right (for right handed golfers).

 

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues.  If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

---

[i] http://money.cnn.com/2010/12/17/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[ii] http://www.cnbc.com/id/40722779

[iii] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-17/greenspan-says-u-s-economy-picking-up-may-grow-as-much-as-3-5-next-year.html

[iv] http://online.barrons.com/public/page/barrons_econoday.html

[v] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40716871/ns/business/

[vi] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40728284/ns/business/

[vii] http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2010/12/19/free-shipping-and-apples-ipad-help-spark-record-online-holiday-sales/

[viii] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/eu-leaders-offer-little-relief-from-bond-turmoil-2010-12-17

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Weekly Market Update – 12/06/2010

Weekly Market Update
Week of December 06, 2010

THE MARKETS:

Does it ever seem to you that news headlines possess a split personality?  That everything is always rosy or doom and gloom with no middle ground?  This perception scares many people out of investing leading them to conclude that such unpredictability is a risk they can do without. Is this a recent phenomenon? 

While it may be obvious that sensational headlines are designed to get an audience’s attention, media influence over public opinion is a long-held tradition. Consider a few headlines from years past:[i]

Can Capitalism Survive? – 1975
Is There Light at the End of the Tunnel? – 1992
Awash in Troubles – 1984

Do any of these headlines sound familiar, even recent? If the years weren’t printed next to them, would you conclude that two of them are over 25 years old? Often, such dire predictions leave something out. In many cases, even as the news is inundated with pessimistic headlines, positive long-term trends are in development.

Just this Sunday, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke appeared on CBS’ 60 Minutes. Included among his comments were positive statements such as, “I have every confidence that this economy will recover, and recover in a strong and sustained way. The American people are among the most productive in the world. We have the best technologies. We have great universities. We have entrepreneurs. I just have every confidence that as we get through this crisis, that our economy will begin to grow again, and it will remain the most powerful and dynamic economy in the world.”[ii]

To our point, just an hour after the Fed Chairman’s interview, CNN lead with this headline: Bernanke on ’60 Minutes’: Grim Outlook.[iii] Granted, not everything Bernanke said was positive, but why did CNN choose to highlight the negative? Because sensational headlines sell. Remembering this fact can help you avoid making rash, emotional decisions, and may even help you sleep better at night.

Data as of 12/03/2010	1-Week	Y-T-D	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	2.97	9.83	11.4	-0.64	-0.69
Dow	2.62	9.15	9.80	0.93	0.97
NASDAQ	2.24	14.2	19.3	2.80	-0.20
MSCI EAFE	3.68	2.32	0.30	-0.19	1.01
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	2.86	N/A	3.38	4.52	5.51

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR: [iv]

Tuesday – Consumer Credit
Wednesday – EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – Jobless Claims, EIA Natural Gas Report
Friday – International Trade, Consumer Sentiment, Treasury Budget

HEADLINES:

The U.S. Senate on Saturday defeated two attempts by Democrats to extend the Bush-era tax cuts for the middle class permanently. After the Senate voted, President Barack Obama told Democratic congressional leaders he would be open to a temporary extension of the Bush-era tax cuts for the affluent, but he would demand concessions from the GOP.[v]

The United States has reached a tentative free trade agreement with South Korea, the White House said Friday. The agreement, which must be ratified by Congress, strengthens economic ties between Washington and Seoul at a time when the longtime U.S. ally faces an increasingly hostile northern neighbor. If ratified, the agreement would eliminate tariffs on over 95% of industrial and consumer goods within five years.[vi]

A surprising increase in the number of unemployed Americans wasn’t enough to stall oil’s momentum Friday as it cruised to a 26-month high. Benchmark oil settled up $1.19 at $89.19 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It’s the second time in less than a month that oil has reached the level where it was in the fall of 2008. There are widespread expectations that the price will hit $90 a barrel by year’s end and head toward $100 a barrel by next spring when traders begin looking ahead to the summer driving season.[vii]

Nonfarm payrolls rose by 39,000 in November, far lower than the 155,000 gain expected by economists surveyed by MarketWatch and the upwardly revised figure of 172,000 jobs gained in October.[viii]
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

There are always flowers for those who want to see them. – Henri Matisse

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Chocolate Mint Divinity

From: Better Homes and Gardens

This milk chocolate divinity candy recipe is spread with additional chocolate and sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies.

Servings: 81 pieces

Ingredients:
2 7-ounce bars milk chocolate
2-1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup light-colored corn syrup
1/2 cup water
2  egg whites
2 squares (2 ounces) unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies

Directions:
1. Line a 9x9x2-inch baking pan with foil, extending foil over edges of pan. Butter foil; line with chocolate bars. Set pan aside.

2. In a heavy 2-quart saucepan combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium-high heat to boiling, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to dissolve sugar. This should take five to seven minutes. Avoid splashing mixture on sides of pan. Carefully clip candy thermometer to pan. Cook over medium heat, without stirring, to 260 degree F, hard-ball stage. Mixture should boil at moderate, steady rate over entire surface. Reaching hard-ball stage should take about 15 minutes.

3. Remove pan from heat; remove thermometer. In a large mixer bowl, immediately beat egg whites with a sturdy, freestanding electric mixer until stiff peaks form (tips stand straight).

4. Gradually pour hot mixture in a thin stream (slightly less than 1/8inch diameter) over egg whites, beating on high speed and scraping bowl occasionally. This should take about three minutes. (Add mixture slowly to ensure proper blending.) Add unsweetened chocolate and peppermint extract. Continue beating on high speed, scraping bowl occasionally, just until candy starts to lose its gloss. When beaters are lifted, mixture should fall in a ribbon, but mound on itself and not disappear into remaining mixture. Final beating should take five to six minutes.

5. Immediately spread over chocolate bars in prepared pan. Sprinkle with crushed candies. When firm, lift out of pan; cut into 1-inch squares. Store tightly covered.

Make-Ahead Tip:

Up to three days ahead prepare divinity. Store at room temperature in a tightly covered container.

 GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Get Rhythm

In a golf swing, the rhythm describes the total time it takes to complete the swing among its three main parts: backswing, downswing and forwardswing. If you treat the golf swing like a simple pendulum and divide it into equal beats or counts, the backswing should take two beats, and the combined downswing and forwardswing two beats. For example, you should be able to count “one-two” to the top of your backswing, and “three-four” to impact and finish. This 2:1:1 ratio is the golf swing rhythm. Like tempo, it’s critical that you have the same rhythm for every club and every swing.

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Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

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[i] http://www.time.com/time/archive/

[ii] http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/12/03/60minutes/main7114229.shtml

[iii] http://money.cnn.com/

[iv] http://www.econoday.com/ 

[v] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704767804575654713979746760.html

[vi] http://money.cnn.com/2010/12/03/news/international/south_korea_free_trade/index.htm

[vii] http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9JSM3C83.htm

[viii] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/unemployment-hits-98-as-payrolls-add-just-39000-2010-12-03

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Atlanta, GA Investing – Phil Calandra

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Kennesaw, GA Retirement Advisor, Phil Calandra, Helps Locals Overcome Financial Problems

PRESS RELEASE: Kennesaw, GA, 29-JULY-2010 – Phil Calandra and The Calandra Group have gained renown for helping locals in Kennesaw to overcome their financial problems. When an individual is caught in a downward spiral of debt, they often are not sure what steps to take to take control of their financial life. Having Phil Calandra, a Kennesaw Financial Advisor can be invaluable in achieving your goal for financial security.

When Mr. Calandra assists an individual with financial problems, he uses a holistic approach that include immediate needs and long-term financial security. The unique approach that includes applying an integrated approach that includes wealth planning and management. After reviewing debts, assets, and other types of income, Mr. Calandra creates a list of immediate financial concerns and future needs and desires.

After analyzing the data collected, the Kennesaw financial advisor provides options for emerging from debt and establishing a plan for investments, tax, retirement, and estate planning. He includes in his presentation of the options the important facts that are needed to understand how each investment strategy and product will affect your financial future and the length of time that is involved to create the financial freedom that is desired.

The plan that is developed is individualized and tailored to meet the specific needs of of the individual who wants to meet their goals for the future. Mr. Calandra has the experience and expertise to provide quality service and give individuals seeking advice an objective assessment of the most effective steps they need to take to meet their goals.

You can find valuable information about the steps that Phil Calandra, Kennesaw Financial Advisor, takes to assure that individuals who want to take control of their finances and financial future by visiting http://www.thecalandragroup.com today. The following contact information is available to members of the press who would like additional information with regards to this specific release.

Contact Person: Phil Calandra, Kennesaw Financial Advisor

Company Name: The Calandra Group

Address: 1301 Shiloh Road, Suite 1240, Kennesaw, GA. 30144

Contact Number: 678.302.6621

Toll Free Number: 1.877.529.6501

Email: info@thecalandragroup.com

Website: http://www.thecalandragroup.com

Phil Calandra, Kennesaw Financial Advisor, and The Calandra Group, have been helping locals find solutions for their financial problems that work. When an individual is seeking assistance and advice on the best course of action to take control of their financial future, they will find that Mr. Calandra can provide the knowledge and experience that will give them the answers they need.

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Investment Manager In Kennesaw, GA Has Customer Service As Top Priority

A Kennesaw Financial Advisor is someone that is well qualified to give you advice about how to invest your money for the best possible returns. He will study your financial situation and goals and come up with a tailor made system for your particular needs. Let us briefly look at the aspects he will attend to.

The first question he is going to ask you is why you want to invest. Is it to save for a specific goal, such as the university of your children? Or is it to make provision for a pension fund? Or maybe just to get enough funds for that world tour?

You will also have to decide how long you can afford to invest your money and how much of it you want available on call. Keep in mind those unexpected car breakdowns and medical emergencies and don’t tie up all your funds for the long term. Your investment adviser will be able to advise you about this.

Something else that you will have to discuss with the consultant is the role of inflation in your financial planning. If you are thirty years old now, inflation is going to wreak havoc with your retirement funds by the time you get to seventy. The amount that you save per month should therefore make provision for the projected rate of inflation. This can of course never be 100% accurate, but it’s better than not to take into account inflation at all.

Your advisor will also bear in mind whether you are investing for capital growth or a monthly pension. Investments with high capital growth will often carry with them a greater risk than those aiming at providing a regular income. When you are investing for your pension, you can’t afford to invest in high risk investments.

Regardless of your goal with investing, it is never a good idea to invest everything you have in one investment. There is always an element of risk involved with any investment, even a savings account with a bank. It is therefore wise to diversify your portfolio. A well-balanced portfolio will include investments in real estate, stocks, bonds and possibly hedge funds.

Your Kennesaw financial advisor will discuss all the above choices with you. An off-the shelve plan might sometimes simply not be good enough if you have specialized needs. He might therefore in the end decide to recommend a tailor-made investment plan that has been designed specifically with your needs in mind.

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A Kennesaw financial advisor provides retirement planning and investment advice for clients. Learn more about the available financial tools when you visit http://www.thecalandragroup.com .

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