Saturday, December 12, 2015

The SunEdison Saga Continues - SunEdison (NYSE:SUNE) | Seeking Alpha

The SunEdison Saga Continues - SunEdison (NYSE:SUNE) | Seeking Alpha



This is a very good article about SunEdison which includes both positives and negatives.  The comments section is great also because investors with a different viewpoint have made excellent arguments.  I own SUNE myself, and I plan to buy many more shares on Monday morning while the price is low.  I believe SunEdison is one of the few stocks in the market which will be able to gain 50% or more.

Retirement Frontline: I Want Another 1% Raise; Using Strong Cash Flow To Grow Annual Income Now | Seeking Alpha

Retirement Frontline: I Want Another 1% Raise; Using Strong Cash Flow To Grow Annual Income Now | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article on dividend growth investing.  If you buy ARCC while it is down and yielding 10% annually, you will lock in that annual 10% in this business development company on the basis of your principal even if the stock moves higher in price later.  Moreover, the author mentioned several business deals for ARCC that prove it is a reliable stock to own even if the Federal Reserve raises interest rates.  So, a good portion of our stock portfolios should always be devoted to good dividend stocks.

Thursday, December 10, 2015

5 Reasons Why Your Nest Egg Could be at Risk in 2016

5 Reasons Why Your Nest Egg Could be at Risk in 2016



This is an excellent article about why we should be cautious about stocks and bonds in 2016.  As for stocks, the bull market has shown a topping process for the past year although it could still continue to rise at a much slower pace.  Only the best stocks might have a double-digit return in the future.



Then, concerning bonds, the article gave a clear explanation for what will probably happen as the Federal Reserve raises interest rates.  For every one percent rise in interest, the principal of intermediate term bonds may drop 5% or more.  The increase in yield will not offset the capital loss.  So, there is no safe place to hide in today's stock market except possibly in cash or preferred stocks like PFF where the 5% dividend should cover any small drop in the stock price.


Saturday, December 5, 2015

3 Economic Headwinds That Matter More Than You Think | Seeking Alpha

3 Economic Headwinds That Matter More Than You Think | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article about how the stock market is struggling more than some people think.  You may recall how the Dow struggles to get back to 18,000 on rallies, and the author showed a great chart of how the NYSE is less now than it was in May of 2014.  Moreover, when the ISM report was less than 50 in the past, that set off alarm bells.  Now, the Federal Reserve may raise rates instead of helping the economy.  So, we are in for some rough times for stocks in the future.


Thursday, December 3, 2015

What the NYSE Isn't Saying About Its Earth-Shattering Decision | Shah Gilani's Wall Street Insights and Indictments

What the NYSE Isn't Saying About Its Earth-Shattering Decision | Shah Gilani's Wall Street Insights and Indictments



This is an excellent article on the new NYSE rules that will take place next year in doing away with stop-loss and GTC stock orders.  You will still be able to do these things, but your broker will be keeping track of it instead of the NYSE.  Then, when your stop is hit, your broker will send a market order at that point.  Really, not that much will change.  I have had stop orders filled way below where I wanted them to sell in the past.  The only way you can stay on top of the market is to watch it all the time or have alerts sent to your cellphone as Shah suggested.  The stock market will still be profitable for those who perform due diligence.

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

America's biggest gas field finally succumbs to downturn

America's biggest gas field finally succumbs to downturn



Here is an outstanding article about the glut of natural gas which could go on for two or three more years.  In other words, natural gas companies could go under, and prices will remain low for longer than anyone ever imagined.  Even if natural gas exports finally ramp up, it may not be enough to tighten up the supply end.

Monday, November 30, 2015

The 3 stocks that yield more than 8 percent

The 3 stocks that yield more than 8 percent



Here is an interesting CNBC article about three stocks that are yielding more than 8% annually.  One of the companies, Kinder Morgan (KMI) is the largest pipelines company in America, and I believe their 8% dividend is solid because oil and natural gas have to be transported no matter what the underlying commodity price is.  Eventually, I believe KMI will have a higher stock price as well although that will diminish the percentage of the dividend at that point.  However, buying KMI today will mean that you locked in that 8% on the money amount that you spent on the stock even if the price goes higher as long as the dividend stays the same.

 

CHART: Here’s why investors should be on ‘high alert’ right now | The Crux

CHART: Here’s why investors should be on ‘high alert’ right now | The Crux



This is an outstanding article and chart about the correlation of high-yield bonds and stocks.  When these risky bonds start declining, a stock market correction or a bear market is probably just around the corner.  We need to get an exit strategy ready now before things become worse.

Morgan Stanley: Get Ready for a Period of Low Returns in the Market - Yahoo Finance

Morgan Stanley: Get Ready for a Period of Low Returns in the Market - Yahoo Finance



This is a great article about how stock market returns will probably fall to less than 4% in the coming year.  The super growth days are over.  The best strategy is to load up on dependable dividend stocks that will beat the general market.  I own PFF and T which both pay more than 5% in dividends.  I also own AMZN, FB, and GOOG because I believe internet stocks will continue to beat most stocks.


Thursday, November 26, 2015

Stocks Worth Holding

As long as the economy is doing okay, popular stocks are worth holding as long as their ROE is 12% or better.  Ycharts.com is a good place to look for ROE on various stocks.  The link above shows that Starbucks is a great stock to hold.  If you want to check another stock's rating while you are there, enter the next ticker symbol like NKE in the "Switch To" box at the web page upper right, and enter.  I recommend SBUX, NKE, AMZN, GOOG, FB, and RTN.

Of course, if a stock is languishing below its 200 day average, a good ROE may be history.  Don't buy a stock until it is above its 200 day average.  Preferably, the 50 day line should also cross over the 200 day line in a well-known golden cross which usually leads to profit.
 

Junk Bond Market Forecasts A Looming Stock Market Crash | Seeking Alpha

Junk Bond Market Forecasts A Looming Stock Market Crash | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article which predicts a stock market crash or large correction in the next few months.  The correction probably would have already started except that we are currently going through the strongest months of the year for the stock market.  After Christmas and the start of 2016 coupled with a Federal Reserve interest rate increase, the market will most likely go down.  If the economy holds up, though, it will probably just be a correction.

 

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Red Clover Benefits & Information (Trifolium Pratense)

Red Clover Benefits & Information (Trifolium Pratense)



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The above link is for an excellent article about the benefits of Red Clover.  I prefer the liquid extract from Herb Pharm as the easiest way to get a good dose of Red Clover.  It can easily be added to juice to drink it, and it can also be applied to skin lesions with a cotton swab.



Red Clover improves blood circulation, helps prevent bone loss, and it aids in male and female problems that occur in the 50s and beyond.  It lowers bad cholesterol and raises HDL.  So, this herb is definitely worthwhile to take on a daily basis.

Saturday, November 14, 2015

A Stock Market Warning Signal Just Flashed Red | Seeking Alpha

A Stock Market Warning Signal Just Flashed Red | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article about the stock market decline.  I have been making money on TVIX and SQQQ which both go up when the market goes down.  The NYSE MacClellan Oscillator is at -64 which indicates an oversold market, but we could go lower over the next few days.  When $NYMO gets to -80 or lower, it will be time to buy because the big boys will not kill the golden goose stock market.  I plan to buy AMZN and TQQQ near the market bottom because there will probably be a rally back to almost 18,000 on the Dow at some point.

 

Saturday, November 7, 2015

5 companies grab 70% of your online dollars

5 companies grab 70% of your online dollars



The internet will continue to grow by leaps and bounds.  This is why we need to be invested in companies that are making money on the internet like Amazon, Google, and Facebook.  Buying just one share of Amazon before they reported earnings would have gained you $100.  I know it is hard to buy expensive companies, but that is where the gains are.

Friday, November 6, 2015

Dot-com bubble 2.0: The cloud build-up

Dot-com bubble 2.0: The cloud build-up



Here is a fantastic article on why the new dot.com businesses will not fail like the ones in 2000.  The computer and internet boom of the 90s was built on one-time purchases, and computer software and hardware became so dependable that people did not need to upgrade constantly after 2000.  Hence, Intel and others fell unexpectedly.



Now that many companies are cloud-based, we are not in an era of one-time expenses.  Instead, we have companies built on recurring revenue.  Amazon just had its 2nd consecutive profitable quarter.  Cloud revenue is the same for Facebook, Google, and Netflix.  So, the new dot.com era is built on a stronger foundation than the first one.



  

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Monthly Trading Trends

The signs of an old bull market are when we struggle to make just a 10% gain each year on the S&P 500.  I believe we could be in this low gain region for the next two or three years.  However, there are ways to amplify your gains if you are willing to be a nimble trader.  If you will look at the chart of $NYMO below, you will see monthly stock market trends that will last for several days whether the trends are up or down.

You could also watch the MACD graph for verification that a trend change is taking place.  If the market is going down, you could buy SQQQ, the Nasdaq triple short.  If the market is going up, you could buy TQQQ, the Nasdaq triple long.  Just be sure to sell and book your profits before the trend changes again.


Thursday, October 29, 2015

11 Foods that Boost Your Immune System

11 Foods that Boost Your Immune System



Here is a great article about several immune boosting foods and one drink.  Green tea is the healing drink.  Oatmeal and Vitamin C rich foods like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers all help the immune system.  Sweet potatoes help protect your skin, and they also act in the production of connective tissue.  As a person gets older, connective tissue disappears unless it is properly replenished through Vitamin A type foods.  Garlic, cayenne, turmeric, and ginger all made the list, too.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

10 Foods That Can Lower Your Blood Sugar Naturally

10 Foods That Can Lower Your Blood Sugar Naturally



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The above article covers ten foods that can lower your blood sugar.  Blueberries, Avocados with beta-sitosterol and monounsaturated fat, chia seeds, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, mangos, spices like ginger, fenugreek, coriander, and turmeric, olive oil, two eggs per day, vinegar, and cherries all made the list.  In fact, cherries supposedly can reduce insulin by 50% along with protecting against heart disease and cancer.


Sunday, October 25, 2015

echinacea: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings - WebMD

echinacea: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings - WebMD



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The link above is a great article about echinacea.  The herb reportedly helps against colds, yeast infections, tonsillitis, strep infections, other bacteria infections, eczema, and other skin problems.  The brand I recommend is Super Echinacea liquid extract from Herb Pharm.  Just put a dropper full of the extract into one of your favorite beverages, and you will only notice a slight difference.  I put some echinacea extract in my prune juice this morning, and it still tasted good.

Saturday, October 24, 2015

Safe, Sustainable 7% Yield From Common And Preferred Share Dividends - John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE:HTD) | Seeking Alpha

Safe, Sustainable 7% Yield From Common And Preferred Share Dividends - John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE:HTD) | Seeking Alpha



This is a very good article about a dependable 7% dividend stock that would be a good addition to a diversified portfolio.  Currently, the usual fall rally has started, and other stocks will temporarily outperform HTD, but smart investors know that you must protect yourself with appropriate asset allocation.



I plan to buy HTD at some point, but my buy for this week will be IBB, one of the leading biotech ETFs.  The stocks in this sector are coming off a double-digit bottom, and they will most likely rise with nearly all stocks for the next two months.  The MACD momentum for IBB has turned upward, and now is the time to buy it.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

5 reasons oil is heading to new tipping point

5 reasons oil is heading to new tipping point



This is an excellent article about why we may hit low points in the price of oil again.  The supply continues to out-pace the demand even before sanctions are fully lifted from Iran.  There is no question that Iran will raise the saturation of oil supply.  The only unknown is by how much.



Storage of oil and refined products are also close to full.  U.S. shale oil did not roll over as the Saudis expected, and output is still very strong.  The World Bank sees an average barrel of oil price at $51 in 2016.  Even Barclay's optimistic outlook has oil only at $63 in the 4th quarter of 2016.  So, holding oil stocks for the next year may be a losing investment.

 




Lower Your Cancer Risk by Eating These 10 Foods

Lower Your Cancer Risk by Eating These 10 Foods



This is an outstanding article about foods that can lower your cancer risk.  The list contains more than just oatmeal which I struggled to learn how to eat on a regular basis.  I always had preferred grits over oatmeal, and I finally adopted both.



Beets made the list, and I already liked them.  In fact, I could probably eat beets every day, but beef or chicken with fries usually crowds them out since I can only eat so much at each meal.  I always keep beets on hand at home with the idea of eating a can of beets whenever I can work them in.



Lemons made the list, also.  This is a food item that I will have to add to my diet because they flush out body toxins, they are antibacterial and antiviral as well as anticancer, and they reduce inflammation.  My plan right now is to buy several lemons whenever I go to the store.  Then, I intend to cut them in half and squeeze out the juice into a cup of water or a beverage that would test good with lemon juice.



Ginger is another food that has anticancer properties.  I have taken ginger off and on for years, but I am going to make it a daily item now after reading this article.  Ginger extract has reportedly shrunk prostate cancer by 50%, and it is also anti-inflammatory.  I am ordering some ginger extract tonight, and I am going to get some ginger beer the next time I am at the grocery store.



Grapefruit, nuts, olive oil, and coconut water also made the list.  Tomatoes were not on the list, but they should have been listed.  They contain lycopene just like grapefruit, and lycopene prevents tumors.  So, we need to do all we can to help keep ourselves out of the doctor's office and avoid life-threatening situations.






Sunday, October 18, 2015

3 Recession Signposts To Watch | ETF Trends

3 Recession Signposts To Watch | ETF Trends



Here is an excellent article on three indicators which predict a recession.  I agree wholeheartedly with the author that the CFNAI is the #1 predictor of recessions.  The August reading was -.41 which is cautionary.  If the Chicago Fed National Activity Index ever drops below -1.0, you should immediately sell your long stocks and go short, go to cash, or go to TLT, long term bonds.  I have back-tested this idea, and I believe it works to preserve capital during a recession.


Saturday, October 17, 2015

10 Ways Coffee Can Save Your Life

10 Ways Coffee Can Save Your Life



This is a great article about how coffee is good for your health.  It makes you more mentally alert and it burns fat.  It can help prevent colon cancer and diabetes.  It is a pleasure enhancer, and it contains potassium and B vitamins.  Finally, it also helps to prevent liver cancer.

QLC: Large-Cap ETF With High-Quality Stocks - FlexShares US Quality Large Cap Index ETF (NASDAQ:QLC) | Seeking Alpha

QLC: Large-Cap ETF With High-Quality Stocks - FlexShares US Quality Large Cap Index ETF (NASDAQ:QLC) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a very good article about a new large-cap quality ETF that seems to have great potential especially in a volatile stock market.  QLC holds popular stocks like AAPL, XOM, and INTC.  It has also beat other similar ETFs so far.  The expense ratio is low also.  The only problem I see right now is low trading volume, but this could be a very important ETF in the future.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

10 Tips to Cut Body Fat — for Good

10 Tips to Cut Body Fat — for Good



This is a very good article on how to cut body fat.  Protein is something you don't want to reduce, though, unless you are getting more than 100 grams of protein each day.  Many people don't get enough protein because it is harder than you may think for a 200 pound man to get 100 grams of protein.  If he drinks three glasses of milk, that is only 24 grams of protein.  Then, a small portion of meat might only be another 25 grams of protein.



This article gives you good exercises to boost muscles which will in turn burn body fat.  Nuts are actually good for building muscle mass as well as meat and eggs.  Fish oil up to 6 grams per day can help decrease fat mass.  Finally, you need to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night for muscle recovery and growth hormone production.  Low sleep slows down fat loss and causes muscle loss instead.  So, we have to keep major points in mind to lose fat and build muscles.


5 Things That Happen To Your Body When You Walk

5 Things That Happen To Your Body When You Walk



Here is a great article on the benefits of walking.  I work at a large manufacturing plant, and it is around a half mile from where I park my car to my shop in the plant.  I am always warm when I get to my work area because my blood is flowing freely by that time due to all the walking just as this article says.



Your muscles are invigorated by more blood flow, and your joints get more lubrication when you walk.  Your heartbeat elevates to a healthy level, and chemicals are released that open your blood vessels.  Fat is actually turned into fuel while you walk.  So, we need to walk each day for good health.



Wednesday, October 14, 2015

NXP Semiconductors: A Whole New Growth Story Post Merger - NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ:NXPI) | Seeking Alpha

NXP Semiconductors: A Whole New Growth Story Post Merger - NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ:NXPI) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on NXPI.  I bought some shares today as I saw the stock galloping off to the races.  The near field chip technology and connected cars are trends that will certainly grow while the rest of the stock market may remain lackluster.  The Dow was down more than -150 points today while NXPI gained $4.50 per share.  This is probably only the beginning for NXPI.

5 Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil

5 Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil



This is a link to a good article on evening primrose oil.  I take the Solgar brand of 500 mg softgels myself.  Evening primrose oil can help in skin and arthritis problems, and essential oils like EPO become even more important as a person gets older.  As the article says, though, you will probably have to take the oil a while before you see any results.  Herbs are usually safer than taking drugs but they are also slower in action.

Monday, October 12, 2015

Approach Resources - Home

Approach Resources - Home



Here is a link to AREX, an oil company that is successfully operating in the Permian Basin of West Texas where they are producing low cost oil.  Approach Resources should be able to handle the ups and downs of volatile oil prices, and the stock price should increase significantly when we get back to $60 per barrel oil or higher.  The Saudis also need a higher oil price to sustain their economy.  I own AREX myself, and I plan to hang on to the stock.

Saturday, October 10, 2015

So Far The Stock Split ETF Is Getting The Last Laugh - The United States Stock Split Index ETF (NYSEARCA:TOFR) | Seeking Alpha

So Far The Stock Split ETF Is Getting The Last Laugh - The United States Stock Split Index ETF (NYSEARCA:TOFR) | Seeking Alpha



This is a very good article on TOFR, the stock split index ETF.  It will probably be a nice addition to a diversified portfolio since stock splits are generally liked.  TOFR also has well known companies which add to its safety.  It should only be bought on pullbacks in today's stock market environment, though.

Friday, October 9, 2015

This Is One Heck Of A Great Bond ETF - Vanguard Long-Term Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:BLV) | Seeking Alpha

This Is One Heck Of A Great Bond ETF - Vanguard Long-Term Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:BLV) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article on BLV, Vanguard's long-term bond ETF which yields 4% annually.  It also has about the lowest cost of any ETF.  I bought BLV this morning as part of a diversified portfolio.  The author also presented an excellent portfolio of 10 ETFs which form a good asset allocation.  One of his other portfolio picks was XBI, a biotech ETF.  I bought it this morning as well because it had been unfairly crushed in the recent stock market selloff.

What GoPro's Third Quarter Results Could Look Like - GoPro (NASDAQ:GPRO) | Seeking Alpha

What GoPro's Third Quarter Results Could Look Like - GoPro (NASDAQ:GPRO) | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about GoPro with a little comment about their chip supplier AMBA mixed in.  I own both companies because cameras and camera chips are not dead.  It should be only be a matter of time before these two companies return to bull mode.  The momentum indicator MACD charts for both companies also have rising signal lines.


Tuesday, October 6, 2015

The Two Lines I Draw on Every Stock Chart | Power Profit Trades

The Two Lines I Draw on Every Stock Chart | Power Profit Trades



Here is an excellent article by Tom Gentile about how he uses the 50 day and 200 day simple moving average lines for buying and selling.  For example, Nike (NKE) has a long term uptrend.  Plenty of buyers stepped in when the stock dropped to its 200 day line in August.  I plan to buy Nike myself the next time this scenario occurs because Nike makes all kinds of clothing for sports.  Individuals, colleges, and pro teams all depend on Nike for new clothing every year.

ETF Resumé

ETF Resumé



This is an interesting link to VPU, Vanguard's low cost utility ETF.  The yield is more than 3% annually and the dividend is distributed in monthly allotments.  It is up more than 8% in the past month,and it can probably rise further due to cheap oil and natural gas.  Besides that, utilities do well in the cold months of the year which are not that far away. 



Moreover, VPU owns 83 holdings with very dominant utilities in the top 10 holdings.  The stock price could very easily rise more than 10% from here besides getting a great dividend.  I plan to buy VPU today.  Take a look at the 12 month chart below, and you will see the great possibility of future gain while the rest of the stock market may not go anywhere.






Why I'm Flipping Bullish On GoPro - GoPro (NASDAQ:GPRO) | Seeking Alpha

Why I'm Flipping Bullish On GoPro - GoPro (NASDAQ:GPRO) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on GoPro (GPRO).  I agree with the author that MACD momentum has shifted, and the stock should go up from here.  The company's great business model will surely send the stock higher as well.  I bought some GPRO stock this morning along with AMBA which makes camera chips for GoPro products as well as for competitors.  Drones are a growing business also, and they will need cameras and camera chips to operate.  I am convinced that these stocks will move higher in spite of any volatility the general stock market may experience.   


Solar and wind just passed another big turning point

Solar and wind just passed another big turning point



Here is a very good article about why solar and wind power are here to stay.  The sector is very volatile, though.  I like Sun Edison (SUNE) a lot, and I plan to buy some shares in the $9 range this morning.  Insiders also have bought near that area.  I also own FAN, a wind ETF.  These stocks should only be bought when they are at their lows, though, because their gains will be capped since oil is so cheap nowadays.

Friday, October 2, 2015

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)



Here is an outstanding source of information at the EIA about oil and natural gas drilling in the major areas of the U.S.  You can see from the table that drilling for oil and natural gas is still going on even while the rig count has dropped dramatically.  What this means is that the prices of oil and natural gas will continue to remain low for quite some time because we still have a huge supply, and the demand is not great enough to deplete our vast supplies here in the U.S. and also in the world.


Sunday, September 27, 2015

Where Are The Best Opportunities In Preferred Shares? | Seeking Alpha

Where Are The Best Opportunities In Preferred Shares? | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article on preferred share CEFs.  I particularly like FFC, and I plan to buy a position Monday morning.  The fund pays more than 8% annually although fees will probably drop the net income to around 7%.  However, this is more income than PFF is paying now, and it is one of the most popular preferred stock funds.  I believe everyone should hold preferred stocks as part of a balanced portfolio.  Also, nobody knows when the general stock market will recover from its most recent decline.  We might as well be paid while we wait.

 

Avoiding Stock Market Crashes with the Hi-Lo Index of the S&P500 | iMarketSignals

Avoiding Stock Market Crashes with the Hi-Lo Index of the S&P500 | iMarketSignals



Here is an excellent timing plan to help avoid stock market crashes.  We should have known that something bad was about to happen when the S&P 500 showed a topping pattern during the first part of the summer.  The author used a new high/new low mathematical model to determine when to sell during the summer.



Another plan for a sell indicator is to monitor NYSE lows versus the NYSE total market, $NYLOW:$NYTOT.  The sell signal would have happened in July 2015 when the NYLOW 50 day line crossed over the 200 day line.  In this way, you could have completely avoided the August 2015 meltdown.  Making money in the stock market dependably requires monitoring vital indicators like this one.


Better Returns from Exchange Traded Funds with iM’s Market Climate Grader | iMarketSignals

Better Returns from Exchange Traded Funds with iM’s Market Climate Grader | iMarketSignals



This is a link to a great website page which shows a chart of current stock market conditions.  As it can be seen in the chart, we recently experienced a downturn similar to August of 2011, but the market only dropped 10% instead of 20%.  The web page also shows different ETF allocations and their current returns YTD.  It is recommended that you buy certain ETFs at different positions on the market climate chart.  In this way, you will likely beat the S&P 500.  This is one of the best stock allocation plans that I have seen.

The S&P 500 Death Cross - Time To Panic? | Seeking Alpha

The S&P 500 Death Cross - Time To Panic? | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article on death cross analysis.  Based on extensive historical data, you should not be invested in the stock market for two months after a death cross.  After that time, another analysis could be done to see if it is safe again to be in the market.  Since the economy is doing okay, the market may indeed turn around in a few months.



Moreover, if we were really headed for a bear market, we would have several economic indicators pointing to a recession, and that is not the current case.  Interest is still low enough for businesses to borrow even if the Federal Reserve raises interest rates as high as 1 or 2 percent.  In addition, people are not buying extensive amounts of government bonds as they would in a bear market.  Cash is the best place to be right now along with good dividend stocks that are stable during volatility.

     

Friday, September 25, 2015

Cash beats stocks, bonds for first time in 25 years

Cash beats stocks, bonds for first time in 25 years



This is an interesting article about how cash is beating stocks and bonds this year.  Stocks will probably struggle just to get back to the highs of 2015 by the end of the year.  We also seem to be entering a new paradigm where bonds are not an escape route away from falling stocks.  PFF, the preferred stock ETF, seems to be one of the most stable stocks right now, and you get an annual dividend of 5% distributed on a monthly basis.

Sunday, September 20, 2015

Fibonacci Calculator - Investing.com

Fibonacci Calculator - Investing.com



Here is an outstanding Fibonacci calculator to use for typical retracements and for breakouts.  Fibonacci charts and numbers often work because many stock market investors and institutions believe in them.  Thus, they are a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Whether you believe in Fibonacci numbers or not, you need to be aware of what other stock market traders will probably do.



Another excellent page at Investing.com is the Economic Calendar.  You can look at what is happening today, tomorrow, this week, and next week.  For example, if you know the dates of the next Federal Reserve meeting, you could set up a short or long trade ahead of the meeting based on what you think the Fed will do.  You could also monitor stock market reactions to various data coming from different sources.  If you do your homework, you could make money being on the right side of trades at critical moments.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

The Insanely Important Vitamin that Almost Everyone Is Missing Out On

The Insanely Important Vitamin that Almost Everyone Is Missing Out On



Here is an excellent article about the great importance of Vitamin E.  I take 1000% of the RDA of Vitamin E daily and sometimes more.  As the article says, it is believed that Vitamin E helps against heart disease, and I am convinced it helps my circulation.



Something new that I learned from this article is that Vitamin E boosts your immune system.  This makes sense since the vitamin is an antioxidant.  It can also help against some cancers.  However, the article downplayed taking supplements toward the end because the author thought that a lot of people are getting enough Vitamin E from food.  I strongly disagree with the author on this because most of the people I know do not eat a lot of nuts nor do they eat a lot of salads.  So, I will continue to take my Vitamin E supplement called Smart Q10 which also includes of large amount of Coenzyme Q10 which moreover helps heart health along with energy.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Stocks: Where Do We Go From Here? | Seeking Alpha

Stocks: Where Do We Go From Here? | Seeking Alpha



Eric Parnell has written an outstanding article on what lessons we can draw whenever the S&P 500 breaks its 400 day moving average.  This type of correction cannot be taken lightly, and we may have further downside ahead in spite of recent rallies.  I believe the current stock market volatility resembles 2011 to a certain extent, but the Federal Reserve is almost out of bullets to fix the 2015 problem.  If rates are raised too quickly, the housing market will crash along with other businesses.



In addition, commodities are unstable now, especially oil and natural gas.  Moreover, I read a recent article that the smart phone market is starting to decline, and this will affect Apple and all its chip suppliers.  Then, finally, many other stocks are out of gas, too.  This is probably a time to sell the rallies.  If I figure out a reliable trading pattern, I will post it.  In the meantime, my biggest holding will remain PFF, the preferred stock ETF which pays 6% annually in monthly installments.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

IEF Is A Quick Way To Make Your Portfolio Safer - iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:IEF) | Seeking Alpha

IEF Is A Quick Way To Make Your Portfolio Safer - iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:IEF) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a very good article on having a safe portfolio for volatile times.  The author is giving a reasonable 20% allocation to IEF that would allow a person to weather a lot of stock market storms.  PFF with its 10% allocation is also good.  Another great pick is PKW, the PowerShares stock buyback ETF.  Over the past five years, PKW has outperformed the S&P 500, and it is great to own in any portfolio.

Thursday, September 3, 2015

How to Beat This Market’s “Three Cs” of Risk

How to Beat This Market’s “Three Cs” of Risk



This is an outstanding article by Tom Gentile about why the stock market is so volatile now.  China is one reason for market instability because their country is going through their "irrational exuberance" period like we did in 2000 during the dot.com bust.  All stock market tops will eventually decline.



Low commodity prices are a second reason for volatility.  Copper and oil are used for economic expansions, and we have low demand for these commodities now.  We must adjust to a slowing world economy.  A third reason for market problems is that currencies are being devalued.  So, we need to be looking at the NYSE McClellan Oscillator ($NYMO) to note when it is best to be short or long.  Short the market when $NYMO is positive and go long when $NYMO is -80 or worse.  Then, sell as soon as you have made a profit because it won't last.

  

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Hold Me Tight? Natural Gas Supply/Demand Balance Keeps Prices in a Tight Range | RBN Energy

Hold Me Tight? Natural Gas Supply/Demand Balance Keeps Prices in a Tight Range | RBN Energy



Here is an excellent article on the state of natural gas.  The supply-demand equation has remained balanced, and that is why natural gas futures stocks like UGAZ and UNG have gone nowhere this summer and are currently going down.  We are actually using more natural gas than 2014 due to electrical power plants consuming more natural gas.  The transition from coal to nat-gas is for real.    



The RBN Energy website contains other interesting articles about oil and natural gas also.  Articles are on the website for the Henry Hub, the Rockies Express Pipeline (REX), LNG exports, and natural gas going to Mexico as well as many other articles.   RBN should be one of your favorite bookmarks for the energy sector.



  

Four Stocks Insiders Bought During Last Week’s Market Tumult - TheStreet

Four Stocks Insiders Bought During Last Week’s Market Tumult - TheStreet



This is a great article on stocks that insiders are buying now.  I especially like Sun Edison (SUNE), and I am planning to buy shares this morning.  Solar stocks are bound to rise again because solar is the wave of the future, and they are getting closer to being competitive with oil and natural gas.  I also like SEDJ, and I own it.


Tuesday, September 1, 2015

3 reasons this stock sell-off could keep going

3 reasons this stock sell-off could keep going



This is a very important article on why stocks may keep falling.  Even worse, while we may not enter a recession, it may take two to six months to recover from the current damage according to Ari Wald of Oppenheimer.  Bear markets can also occur without a recession, and the recovery will take even longer if stocks fall by more than 20%. 



So, a person could possibly short the rallies and make money since we will probably fall back yet again.  SQQQ is a leveraged short of the Nasdaq that I might try whenever $NYMO becomes positive again.  I will need to take my profit whenever $NYMO hits -90 down, though, because the oversold conditions will trigger another rally even if it fizzles out.


Saudi Arabia refuses to bow to pressure to cut oil production

Saudi Arabia refuses to bow to pressure to cut oil production



Here is a very good article about why we cannot be overly optimistic about a turn-around in oil prices.  Nobody knows for sure what the Saudis will do.  When some OPEC members talk about $80 per barrel being a fair price for oil, this does not mean Saudi Arabia will accommodate by reducing production.



So, we don't really have a long trade in oil yet, and it might not happen until next year.  As the article mentioned, the Saudis are really hurting themselves as much as others by reduced income from oil.  They would be better off just giving up some of their business at a higher oil price.  In the meantime, whenever oil dips below $40 per barrel, there might be an optimistic bounce from that level to $48, and a nimble trader might get a quick 20% profit if he acts fast.

Stocks are sending a recession warning

Stocks are sending a recession warning



This is an excellent article about why the stock market decline could get a lot worse.  We faced a similar situation in August-September of 2011 although it later turned positive because Congress raised the debt ceiling and the Federal Reserve helped out.  This time may be different if we don't get the help we need.



Another reason that this time may be different is that we are coming off the top of a multi-year bull market whereas we were still rising from the bottom of a bear market back in 2011.  Also, China cannot help us now either.  The commodities boom of past years is over.  Oil and natural gas might rise some, but copper, gold, and steel will probably remain depressed.  Cash is king again, and profits in stocks should be taken quickly before they evaporate.


Monday, August 31, 2015

Oil ETFs Rally into Bull Market on Supply Concerns | ETF Trends

Oil ETFs Rally into Bull Market on Supply Concerns | ETF Trends



Here is an outstanding article which explains the recent rally in oil stocks.  OPEC has finally come to its senses and thinks $80 per barrel is a reasonable oil price.  Therefore, they will be cutting production to raise the price of oil.  Moreover, the U.S. oil production has finally started to decline which will help prices also.  I am buying UWTI, a triple long oil ETF, tomorrow morning.  Oil will probably continue to rise while the rest of the stock market languishes.

Thursday, August 27, 2015

How “Silent Calls” Lead To Identity Theft

How “Silent Calls” Lead To Identity Theft



Here is a great article on how phone calls lead to ID theft.  As the author pointed out, the phone calls often simulate real calls from your bank, and this is how some people get seduced.  My person response is not answering the phone at all if I don't know who the person is.  Also, you can check your bank accounts on-line periodically to look for suspicious activity.


Wednesday, August 26, 2015

The party is over for junk bond investors

The party is over for junk bond investors



This is a good article explaining why junk bonds like the ETF, JNK, are not reliable anymore.  A lot of the dividend money comes from oil and mining companies which are not doing well.  While the dividend rate of JNK is around 6% and distributed on a monthly basis, the price of the stock has been slowly declining.  So, the loss of capital may be about equal to your dividends now.  



A better alternative is PFF, the preferred stock ETF.  It pays around 6% annually in monthly installments also, but the price of PFF is more stable although it has fallen slightly.  I own PFF myself, and I think it is good idea for part of your portfolio to be designated for income money especially in a volatile stock market.


Saturday, August 22, 2015

Cheniere Energy: Time To Buy The Drop - Cheniere Energy, Inc (NYSEMKT:LNG) | Seeking Alpha

Cheniere Energy: Time To Buy The Drop - Cheniere Energy, Inc (NYSEMKT:LNG) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an interesting article on Cheniere Energy.  I own the stock, and I plan to buy more on dips below $60 per share.  Cheniere has done well to line up future contracts for LNG.  The demand for natural gas will not be going away either.  I wish I had bought and held Cheniere when it was selling at single digits.



The mystery of multi-bagger stocks is that they are always overpriced.  You just have to believe in the future story.  As for another multi-bagger, I can remember when Priceline (PCLN) was selling for just $5 per share, and it is now over $1200 per share with a PE of just 27.






Friday, August 21, 2015

Dow plunges on worries about slowing global growth

Dow plunges on worries about slowing global growth



This is an important article about the Dow falling more than 500 points.  This downturn scenario has not happened since August of 2011 when Congress had its unprecedented impasse over the budget ceiling.  Kinahan of TD Ameritrade said that people are pulling their money out of the market because they can't tell who will be the future winners or losers.  I agree.  My best stock is PFF, the preferred stock ETF.  It pays 6% annually in monthly installments, and it has been a safe haven so far.  Moreover, nobody knows when the selling will stop.


Thursday, August 20, 2015

Dow plunges 358, S&P erases 2015 gains as traders fear oil, Fed

Dow plunges 358, S&P erases 2015 gains as traders fear oil, Fed



Here is a good article which explains why the stock market is down so much.  The market hates uncertainty, and we have plenty of that right now with China going down and with the Federal Reserve still keeping the future clouded on some things.  On the positive side, we are doing well with employment and housing.  If these two were tanking, we would probably be entering a bear market.



The NYSE McClellan Oscillator ($NYMO) is around -46, and this means we will probably have a rebound soon.  Another stock upturn indicator is that the ten-year bond interest is approaching 2%, and this usually means stocks are more attractive.  Whenever the rebound occurs, you probably ought to sell under-performing stocks while you have the chance because we will probably get another downturn soon enough.


Tuesday, August 18, 2015

This Market Shape Is More Telling than a "Death Cross" | Power Profit Trades

This Market Shape Is More Telling than a "Death Cross" | Power Profit Trades



This is a good article by Tom Gentile about how to interpret the current Dow and S&P 500 charts.  The death cross on the Dow has been much talked about as a negative stock market indicator.  However, Tom brought up a chart of a "symmetrical triangle" signal on the S&P 500 which is more positive than the Dow.  The triangle will eventually come to a point and market direction will break hard in one way or the other.  Tom seems to think stocks will rally higher because the ascending support line is longer than the lowering resistance line.

Monday, August 17, 2015

4 reasons stocks will move sideways until the end of 2015

4 reasons stocks will move sideways until the end of 2015



This is a great article about how Goldman Sachs believes we are in a sideways market, and it will remain that way for the next 5 to 12 months with not much improvement even going out to 2017.  The most dependable money will be made in good dividend stocks.   My favorite pick for dividends is PFF which pays around 6% annually in monthly installments.



However, a sideways market does not mean a down market.  Goldman Sachs does not see any economic trouble for the U.S. and the stock expansion could go on for several more years although at a slower pace.  I agree with them since interest rates are still low, and we are not anywhere close to a recession.


Saturday, August 15, 2015

Beware The Death Cross? | Seeking Alpha

Beware The Death Cross? | Seeking Alpha



Eric Parnell has written a very good article on the history of the Death Cross on stock indexes where the 50 day line falls below the 200 day line.  Eric believes that a lot of the decline has already happened by the time the death cross is triggered.  He also mentioned that this scenario is often a short term bottom for a stock market correction.



I think Eric is right that the current death cross is probably just a correction rather than the beginning of a bear market.  The economy is still doing okay and interest remains low.  Until interest on the 10-year bond gets to around 4% or the economy tanks, we should be invested in stocks.  Some of my favorite picks are PFF, AMBA, and REXX.

  

Level 2 Energy Fundamentals - inside perspectives on energy equities

Level 2 Energy Fundamentals - inside perspectives on energy equities



This is an excellent website to bookmark for the straight story on oil and gas.  As the old saying goes "the devil is in the details", and Level2Energy is able to uncover the bad details.  My previous blog provided a link to a great article from Level2Energy which explained why we cannot expect a near boom in the price of natural gas.



The situation in natural gas and oil is currently just a trade, and you must take your profit while you have it.  One stock that is worthwhile to buy and sell is Rex Energy (REXX).  The stock gained 14% alone on Friday going from $2.93 to $3.35, and I previously saw a $2 to $5 pattern earlier this year.  I own REXX, and I plan to buy it every time I see it in the $2 range.  Then, I will sell the stock when it goes over $5 because the volatility in oil and natural gas will probably be around for quite a while.

 

Midstream Energy MLPs and the Lack-of-Commodity-Price-Exposure Myth - Level 2 Energy Fundamentals

Midstream Energy MLPs and the Lack-of-Commodity-Price-Exposure Myth - Level 2 Energy Fundamentals



Here is an outstanding article about why MLPs are not as good as some people say and why the price of natural gas will remain low far longer than you can ever imagine.  As the author mentioned, pipeline oil and gas prices are not directly tied to commodity prices, but the "flow volumes" effect the income of pipeline companies.  So, if oil and gas companies cannot afford to pump from their wells, their transfer volumes will fall and hurt MLPs.



Secondly, the much hyped exporting of natural gas is taking way too long to unfold.  We need to apply "Murphy's Law" here that other things will go wrong.  In addition, the changeover of power plants from coal to natural gas is also taking a long time.  Hence, the demand and price for natural gas may remain low for quite some time.





Wednesday, August 12, 2015

A 10-Bagger Emerges | Seeking Alpha

A 10-Bagger Emerges | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article on 10-baggers that are hard to find during a stock market top.  The author raves about Netflix and how the company has plenty of room to grow in foreign countries.  I own NFLX myself, and I wish I had gotten in sooner.



Secondly, the article talks about the great prospects of Tesla, and the home batteries that are coming may be greater than the electric cars.  I own TSLA and plan to buy more.  Even if these stocks only grow 100% from the current prices, you will have market-beating stock picks.  I think these stocks are good investments along with a diversified portfolio which has dividend stocks like PFF, the preferred stock ETF which pays around 6% with a relatively stable stock price.




Stocks Mixed as 2008-Style Volatility Returns

Stocks Mixed as 2008-Style Volatility Returns



This is a very good article which discusses the fact that we appear to be at a stock market top.  However, the author summarized by implying it could be two years before stocks lose a third or more of the current value.  So, people can still make money for a while, but you need to have a quick exit plan when things turn really bad.  You can also hedge by owning long-term government bond stocks like TLT which is well-known and TMF which is a 3x long ETF for bonds.


Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Your Expert Guide To Beta-Alanine - Bodybuilding.com

Your Expert Guide To Beta-Alanine - Bodybuilding.com



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The link above involves an article about beta-alanine, a muscle builder.  Having strong muscles is important to everyone, and it is even more important for older people who have bodies that are breaking down due to old age.  It will take time for beta-alanine to increase muscles, though, but the muscle gain will last for a while even if you stop supplementing.



Moreover, you actually need to take beta-alanine if you take taurine to offset any negative effects from taurine.  The latter primarily energizes muscles while beta-alanine actually builds muscles.  Many people may not realize that taurine is an ingredient in almost all energy drinks.  This is one reason why energy drinks work, but you must also be certain to rebuild muscles that can be overstrained by taurine alone.


Sunday, August 9, 2015

Is It Time To Buy Energy CEFs? | Seeking Alpha

Is It Time To Buy Energy CEFs? | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article about dividend paying energy CEFs that are worth buying during the energy downturn.  I especially like IRR, TTP, and FIF for the great dividends that are being paid.  We can make money while we wait for the energy sector to recover.  The general market is also in a downturn now that may continue.  Even if the Dow recovers, it will probably be locked in a narrow trading range for the next few months.

Dividend Calendar: List of Upcoming Dividend Dates

Dividend Calendar: List of Upcoming Dividend Dates



Here is an interesting page about dividend dates on the Nasdaq website.  You can see when companies are at their ex-dividend dates and what the expected dividend amount will be.  There is also an input box at the top of the page where you can enter a ticker symbol like TTP to see what that stock's dividend history looks like.  You can also look ahead to future ex-dividend dates of companies.

 

What Happens When the ITC Expires? : Greentech Media

What Happens When the ITC Expires? : Greentech Media



This is a very important article about the effect that the Investment Tax Credit reduction will have on solar installations.  Basically, the solar industry will survive the expected reduction in ITC, especially on the commercial side.  Currently, solar stock prices are in a big slump probably because of exaggerated worries over the income tax credit as well as very low oil prices.



Eventually, the price slump will end for solar stocks because people will see that solar companies are still making money and that solar power is here to stay.  I will be looking at stock price charts to determine when the stocks have bottomed out and when the rally has resumed again.  My favorite stocks are SCTY, SUNE, SEDJ, and TAN.

 

Saturday, August 8, 2015

The Next Energy Sector Collapse — Coming SOON…

The Next Energy Sector Collapse — Coming SOON…



Here is a bearish article on utilities and XLU, the utilities ETF.  There is some truth that solar installations have hurt traditional utilities, but I'm not sure that it is significant.  First, some utilities have embraced solar themselves, and they can pay for the solar installations a lot easier than homeowners.  One example is Sun Edison (SUNE).



A second point is that oil and natural gas are very cheap now.  Utilities can actually make a lot of money under these circumstances, and this situation is not going away anytime soon.  Some solar stocks like TAN, the solar ETF, have actually fallen more than XLU.  This is due to the current glut of oil and natural gas.  Even though solar is getting inexpensive, people are unlikely to invest in solar installations unless oil and natural gas greatly increase in price again.





Shaken, Not Stirred: Is The 'Biotech Bubble' Beginning To Burst? - Intercept Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:ICPT) | Seeking Alpha

Shaken, Not Stirred: Is The 'Biotech Bubble' Beginning To Burst? - Intercept Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:ICPT) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on the pros and cons of owning biotech stocks at a time when the general stock market looks like it is rolling over.  The author believes that biotech stocks will quickly rebound like tech stocks did during a slump in 1998.  He also mentioned some individual biotech stocks worth buying.  Moreover, he brought up the fact that we have few alternatives for making money in the market right now.





Stocks Came Within a Hair of Melting Down on Friday. Here's Why. : Newsletter Archives

Stocks Came Within a Hair of Melting Down on Friday. Here's Why. : Newsletter Archives



Here is an excellent article which talks about the current stock market conditions.  We are living in perilous unpredictable times for sure.  I also recommend the Smallcap Network website for locating worthwhile stocks.  For example, one hot stock that is shown on the Home page is REXX, Rex Energy.



Thursday, August 6, 2015

Plan To Survive: Be Systematic! - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

Plan To Survive: Be Systematic! - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



Harry Long has written another great article on how to beat the market with selected ETFs.  UPRO is a bet that the market will keep going up while TMF protects if it goes down.  I recently bought TMF when it crossed over its 50 day moving average line.  August and September are scary months to be long on stocks, and bad news could pop up at anytime.



Harry brought up the fact that TMF and EUO, the euro short ETF, balance each other out also.  The strength of the dollar causes the euro to fall while long term bonds (TMF) are hurt by the prospect of rising interest rates.  I'm planning to buy EUO in the next few days because I believe the euro short could be very profitable as the Federal Reserve strengthens the dollar by raising interest rates.

 

Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Short seller who called financial crisis sees calamity ahead

Short seller who called financial crisis sees calamity ahead



Here is a very good bearish article on stocks.  Bill Fleckenstein is a highly respected short seller who thinks the stock market is about to fall.  He was right between 2007 and 2009.  However, one big difference at the last market top was that interest rates were much higher than they are today.  I think we still have room to run until the 10-year bond gets to around 4% interest.  At that point, both businesses and individuals will lose borrowing power, and that will lead to a recession which will also bring down stocks.



Fleckenstein is probably right about a significant correction, though.  Moreover, it will also be hard to tell where the bottom is once the decline begins in earnest.  One way to play a pullback is to buy something like TQQQ once $NYMO is -65 or more negative.  There will probably be a tradeable bounce then before the next leg down.  Be sure you sell when $NYMO goes positive, and wait in cash until the next tradeable bottom.  The chart below shows what I am talking about.  Click on the picture to expand it.





  

Sunday, August 2, 2015

Clayton's Health Facts: L-Leucine. - Bodybuilding.com

Clayton's Health Facts: L-Leucine. - Bodybuilding.com



Here is another good article about the health benefits of leucine.  It helps to heal bones, skin, and muscles.  This can be very important for someone with weak bones.  Leucine also reportedly increases HGH which is the human growth hormone.  This in turn helps to repair joints and slows down the aging process.  Moreover, leucine is used to treat a nerve and muscle disease called Lou Gehrig's disease where the person gradually gets to the point of needing help for basic body movements. 


Leucine Supplement Side Effects | LIVESTRONG.COM

Leucine Supplement Side Effects | LIVESTRONG.COM



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  Leucine is a muscle-building nutrient that can help body builders as well as old people who are not getting enough protein.  This article talks about the good and bad aspects of leucine.  It appears to be safe as long as you don't overdo supplements.  As a person gets older, the body breaks down and cannot easily repair itself compared to young people.  This is why leucine can be helpful for some people.

Is It Time To Sell Skyworks Solutions? - Skyworks Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:SWKS) | Seeking Alpha

Is It Time To Sell Skyworks Solutions? - Skyworks Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:SWKS) | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article about Skyworks along with very good comments after the article.  I own SWKS myself, and I plan to buy more.  The author pointed out that Skyworks advanced 350% since January 2014 while Apple did not come anywhere near that kind of advance although it is certainly up.  In other words, Apple support stocks can gain a lot more than Apple itself.



I also like the fact that SWKS is involved in a lot more than just iPhones.  For example, Skyworks is involved in the automotive field, and cars will become increasingly connected to the world.  Admittedly, the stock is volatile, though.  Currently, the stock is below the 89 day moving average line.  I plan to buy more when the downtrend is reversed.

Saturday, August 1, 2015

After A Stunning Quarter, Starbucks Is Still A Buy - Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) | Seeking Alpha

After A Stunning Quarter, Starbucks Is Still A Buy - Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about Starbucks.  I own the stock myself and I plan to buy more in the future.  SBUX has grown more than 16,000% since the 1990's.  It is in rare multi-bagger territory along with Apple with a gain of over 19,000% since the 90s.



Starbucks has plenty of room to grow in China, and their acquisition of Teavana will also help in eastern countries where tea is popular.  Certainly, the company has a high PE, but that has always been true of growing companies.  Amazon has a much higher PE, but it is still growing like wildfire also.

Fed Stands Pat, Stocks And Income In The FTG Retiree Portfolio Soar To Record Heights | Seeking Alpha

Fed Stands Pat, Stocks And Income In The FTG Retiree Portfolio Soar To Record Heights | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article on making money with a stable dividend stock portfolio.  The author is using a $400,000 portfolio to gain over $20,000 in capital appreciation along with over $20,000 in dividend income.  This is a great American dream although a bear market would force changes in the portfolio so that money would not be lost.  I own Realty Income and plan to buy more.  I also want to own W. P. Carey.  The current portfolio is a very good plan to supplement Social Security as well as to advance at any time in a person's life.


Monday, July 27, 2015

Dr. Ed's Blog

Dr. Ed's Blog



This is an excellent article about when the next recession will start.  Dr. Ed Yardeni is worth heeding, and you could bookmark his blog to stay in touch with Ed for more information.  He believes the next recession might start around March of 2019.  This means that we should ride the stock market until we are near the next bust.



Certainly there will be volatility along the way.  You could buy and hold stocks that are in long-term trends such as healthcare (XLV) or biotech (XBI).  I own both of these stocks.  You could also buy TQQQ, the 3x Nasdaq, on pullbacks because it has a long-term uptrend also.  We need to make money while we can because there is only so much time to accumulate wealth in a person's lifetime.





Saturday, July 25, 2015

Manager Of Hot New Biotech ETFs Explains The Strategy - Investors.com

Manager Of Hot New Biotech ETFs Explains The Strategy - Investors.com



This is an outstanding article on BBP, a new biotech ETF that has a double-digit gain since December 2014 along with beating IBB, a stalwart longstanding biotech ETF fund.  BBP only invests in drug companies with actual products available, and it has equal weighting no matter what size the companies are.  The strategy is working so far.



BBP owns well known companies like Gilead (GILD) as well as lesser known biotechs like Anacor (ANAC), which has outperformed many drug companies this year.  I am buying BBP Monday morning while the stock market has pulled back because BBP will be a great ETF to hold long term.  People will always need drugs, and BBP is doing great at picking worthwhile biotech companies.



     

Worried You Have Eczema? - Dr. Weil's Weekend Tip

Worried You Have Eczema? - Dr. Weil's Weekend Tip



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The above link talks about eczema and possible solutions.  Evening primrose oil was one of the possible solutions, and it is usually available on the internet or at health food stores.  Another point that was not mentioned in the article is that you need to have plenty of air flow so that the skin can heal.  For example, if your problem is on your legs, you should wear shorts as much as possible rather than long pants.

Friday, July 24, 2015

Dow Jones Suffers Worst Slump Since December

Dow Jones Suffers Worst Slump Since December



Here is a great article describing the stock market's latest slump.  The expected stock rally after the Greek solution was very short-lived.  Profits must be taken quickly in today's market, and the future is filled with clouds.  $NYMO, the New York Stock Exchange McClellan Oscillator, is near a low, though, and we might be due for a stock market bounce next week.  Selling into strength is the best strategy.



    

Thursday, July 23, 2015

How to Relieve Your Joints

How to Relieve Your Joints



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The link above is for a joint healing product that may very well work for most people.  I have used some of the same ingredients for years to help my own joints like glucosamine and boswellia.  I will most likely try this new product myself in the near future because it could be worthwhile to use these ingredients in one capsule form rather than having to take separate individual supplement capsules.

  

Sunday, July 19, 2015

10 Scary Charts: July 16, 2015 Update | Seeking Alpha

10 Scary Charts: July 16, 2015 Update | Seeking Alpha



This is a very interesting article with Federal Reserve charts depicting good and bad aspects of the economy.  Housing starts are actually rising which is good.  State and local tax receipts are dipping into negative territory which is bad, and bank credit is getting close to market top conditions which precede a recession.  The Chicago Fed National Activity Index is neutral in expectations, though.  So, we are not in danger yet, but we need to keep monitoring the economy because stocks will surely fall when the economy goes down.

Gladstone Investment Corporation

Gladstone Investment Corporation



This is a link to Gladstone Investment Corporation (GAIN) which recently made a new high.  GAIN is a business development company that is currently doing well.  They pay an annual 9% dividend in monthly installments, and a 9% annual gain may indeed beat the S&P 500 without having to fret over a lot of volatility.  I plan to buy GAIN on Monday morning for the dividend as well as capital gain prospects.

Why Now Is The Time To Buy Social Media Companies - Edward Vranic, CFA | Seeking Alpha

Why Now Is The Time To Buy Social Media Companies - Edward Vranic, CFA | Seeking Alpha



Here is an excellent article about internet media company stocks.  FB has done well this year while TWTR still shows promise.  The author discusses both of these companies as well as smaller companies like KEEKF.  You could also invest in PNQI, an internet ETF which has gained 16% in 2015 while the general stock market has not done much of anything.

Saturday, July 18, 2015

ashwagandha: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings - WebMD

ashwagandha: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings - WebMD



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  This is a WebMD link to the great benefits of Ashwagandha.  I take the herb myself, and I highly recommend it.  You can easily put a dropper full of Ashwagandha extract in a glass of tomato juice, and you will hardly notice it.



Ashwagandha is the closest herb to the fountain of youth that I have ever discovered.  It is great for sex, lowers blood pressure, helps anxiety and arthritis, improves breathing and sleeping, and improves skin problems.  As I mentioned above, it is easy to take with tomato juice or any vegetable juice because it naturally blends in since it has a somewhat salty taste.



Fenugreek is also an herb that reportedly helps restore youth, and the liquid extract mixes well with fruit juices since Fenugreek has a somewhat sweet taste.  So, the best way to take herbs is by the liquid extracts and by mixing them with the type of juice that is most closely related to the herb taste.  This makes using herbs a pleasure rather than a pain, and you get fantastic benefits.


Natural Gas - The End Of The Secular Bear Market Is Near | Seeking Alpha

Natural Gas - The End Of The Secular Bear Market Is Near | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article on the future prospects of natural gas.  The author mentioned that Cheniere Energy (LNG) alone will be buying 6% of the U.S. natural gas production for export around the world.  It is highly profitable to sell cheap U.S. natural gas to Europe, Asia, and South America.  UGAZ is a 3x natural gas ETF that I own.  It is highly volatile, but you can make money through buying UGAZ whenever it dips below $2 per share.  Then, sell UGAZ between $2.50 and $3 for a double digit profit.

Is water a rising tide for investors?

Is water a rising tide for investors?



This is a very good article about investing in worthwhile water companies.  It is doubtful that the general market will go much higher because a lot of companies are already overvalued.  We also have a Congressional budget battle coming up in September which will probably bring down most stocks.  Water companies should be able to withstand a downturn, though.  

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Why This Biotech ETF Keeps Surging | ETF Trends

Why This Biotech ETF Keeps Surging | ETF Trends



Here is a new biotech ETF stock that is worth buying, BBP.  They seem to be doing well at picking winners.  I plan to buy BBP soon even though I already own BIB and XBI.  I believe good biotech stocks will outperform the general market easily.

Saturday, July 11, 2015

Adding XIV, Inverse Volatility ETF, Enhances The Performance Of A Stocks And Bonds Portfolio - VelocityShares Daily Inverse VIX Short-Term ETN (NASDAQ:XIV) | Seeking Alpha

Adding XIV, Inverse Volatility ETF, Enhances The Performance Of A Stocks And Bonds Portfolio - VelocityShares Daily Inverse VIX Short-Term ETN (NASDAQ:XIV) | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article about a combination of stock and bond ETFs which performs well in bull markets and corrections.  The original portfolio contained MDY, QQQ, SHY, and TLT.  XIV was added to increase profits in bull markets.  This is a great "set it and forget it" portfolio with the exception of an all out bear market.  In the bear case, XIV would have to be sold until the market bottomed out, but the original four ETFs would okay for a bear market.  The bond funds would balance out losses in stocks.  These super five stocks will currently do well until the next bear occurs, and you need to make money while time goes on because your time will run out someday.




Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Cramer: Are we headed for worldwide recession? - Yahoo Finance

Cramer: Are we headed for worldwide recession? - Yahoo Finance



This is an outstanding article and video by Jim Cramer about how the stock market could be in trouble.  Now is not the time to build large long positions because the market could fall further at any time due to Greece, China, and possible Federal Reserve hawkish decisions.  You are better off sitting in cash until the storm passes.  If you have chances to make a profit on a stock, you should cash out as soon as you are ahead.


Saturday, July 4, 2015

3 Sectors To Watch In The Second Half Of 2015 | Seeking Alpha

3 Sectors To Watch In The Second Half Of 2015 | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about where to put your money in the rest of 2015 and probably beyond.  The healthcare sector XLV has lead the stock market this year with a gain of almost 10%.  This group will continue to outperform because of retiring baby boomers and advances in medicine.  I own XLV, BIB, and XBI.  These are great stocks to buy on large pullbacks.



Another exciting stock that the author mentioned was MTUM, the iShares stock momentum ETF.  It has gained around 25% in the past 12 months.  It would take a very good stock picker to beat 25%, and many people lose money trying to pick the right stocks especially at a stock market top.  I plan to buy MTUM myself in the near future.

Analyze Any Stock In 12 Minutes Or Less | Seeking Alpha

Analyze Any Stock In 12 Minutes Or Less | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article by a successful investor who talks about six important tests which are keys to picking the right stocks.  The first test involves insider ownership by well known trusted people.  The second test is whether or not you think the company will be around 10 years from now.  Apple, Google, and Facebook are examples of easily passing these first two tests.



I have owned a mining company for over 10 years, but the stock has gone nowhere except for a brief time in 2010 when a fellow miner paid off the company's debts.  This company passes the first test because the CEO of the company is a trustworthy geologist who has been with the company the whole time.  However, the company has failed the second test because the mining industry is a tough business.  Commodities are a boom and bust scenario, and you can't count on anything 10 years in the future.



The third test is whether or not the stock has an upward trend.  Is it making new highs?  Is the 50-day line above the 200-day line?  This is called a golden cross.  Apple and Starbucks pass this test.



The fourth test is the elevator test.  Is the company known well enough to talk about it on an elevator ride?  I know two people who were able to retire early from my company because they invested mostly in well-known companies that were oversold.  One person made over $600,000 and the other person reportedly made over a million dollars.









 

Friday, July 3, 2015

Biotin Side Effects | MD-Health.com

Biotin Side Effects | MD-Health.com



Here is a very good article on the benefits and possible dangers of biotin supplements.  A typical supplement would only be about 2.5 milligrams of biotin.  This much can be beneficial for helping food digestion which in turn helps the body to repair itself.  This is especially important for older people since their digestive systems do not work as well as young people's metabolisms.  The 2.5 mg is also unlikely to cause any bad effects.  You would most likely have to take hundreds of milligrams to be in danger.

  

Monday, June 29, 2015

Cramer: Danger alert-don't buy on the market dip - Yahoo Finance

Cramer: Danger alert-don't buy on the market dip - Yahoo Finance



Jim Cramer has joined the bears over Greece and other problems in the world.  I agree with Jim 100% that you should not buy this dip.  The $NYMO indicator is only at -55 after a -350 down day on the Dow.  $NYMO will need to be probably be -80 or lower before it might be safe to buy the dip.  Then, even if you do buy stocks, it should only be a trade.  The Dow will probably be capped at around 18,000 for months to come.  That is where you should sell if you decide to buy any dips.

  

Grexit Panic Delivers Stocks’ Worst Beating Since 2013

Grexit Panic Delivers Stocks’ Worst Beating Since 2013



This is a very good article about how the bears triumphed on Greek Monday when the Dow fell -350 points.  Holding TVIX would have made you a 34% gain in one day.  Long term bonds are now in favor again in spite of a supposed bond bubble.  The Dow also closed below its 200 day average.  So, we should be buying bear protection stocks because the Greek situation is nowhere near over.  People have been downplaying this scenario for a long time, but the panic has begun as the day of reckoning really approaches.



  

Saturday, June 27, 2015

PureFunds

PureFunds



This is the website link for HACK, the cyber security ETF.  As I have mentioned before, I own the stock and I plan to buy more.  Computer security is an unstoppable future trend which will lead to higher investment gains than the general stock market.  HACK also owns the best names in the sector, and they post their top ten holdings on the home page.  For example, Palo Alto Networks, AVG, Vasco, Splunk, Infoblox, and Proofpoint are currently in the top ten.  This is a great way to invest in cyber security while not being overweighted too much in any one stock.


Cybersecurity stocks sell off following Fortinet downgrade - PureFunds ISE Cyber Security ETF (NYSEARCA:HACK) | Seeking Alpha

Cybersecurity stocks sell off following Fortinet downgrade - PureFunds ISE Cyber Security ETF (NYSEARCA:HACK) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article about why cyber security stocks sold off last week.  I still own HACK, the computer security ETF, because this is a long term trend.  I also plan to buy more on the pullback.  However, I did sell FEYE because it had too much volatility, and I agree with this report that it was overvalued.  If you think you have to sell security stocks, you should do it selectively or own HACK which will give you instant diversification in the sector.

HACK Surges With Rise In Cyber Crime - PureFunds ISE Cyber Security ETF (NYSEARCA:HACK) | Seeking Alpha

HACK Surges With Rise In Cyber Crime - PureFunds ISE Cyber Security ETF (NYSEARCA:HACK) | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article about HACK, the cyber security ETF.  It has advanced 24% this year while the general stock market has not done much of anything.  I own HACK, and I plan to buy more.  Owning this ETF is also less stressful than owning individual security stocks because popular FEYE and CYBR are highly volatile.  You get wonderful diversification and safety in 31 cyber security stocks by owning HACK.

  

Saturday, June 20, 2015

Is Biotech Finally In A Bubble? | Seeking Alpha

Is Biotech Finally In A Bubble? | Seeking Alpha



DoctoRx has written an outstanding article on the biotech sector.  I agree 100% with the doctor that biotech stocks are worth a good portion of your portfolio.  I own XBI, the small cap biotech ETF, and BIB, the 2x leveraged ETF for large cap biotech stocks.  These two stocks have far outperformed the S&P 500 in the past year.



The author also talked about leading large cap and small cap stocks that are held in the respective ETFs.  He gave us reasons to expect that biotech stocks will continue to outperform the market.  I plan to buy more XBI and BIB when the stocks pull back.  The 89-day moving average was a great place to buy these stocks when they pulled back a lot at the end of April of this year.  You will be hard pressed to find better stock picks.





Wednesday, June 17, 2015

NXP Semi: Extremely Cheap Based On Realistic Targets - NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ:NXPI) | Seeking Alpha

NXP Semi: Extremely Cheap Based On Realistic Targets - NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ:NXPI) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a very good article on NXPI.  The author believes the stock can reach $200 by 2018, and I agree.  This is also one of the few 100% gainers that will be possible in a topped out general stock market.  I own the stock and will probably buy more in the future.  In addition, NXPI has great value as a near-field chip making company because near-field devices are the wave of the future while card scanners will be declining.

 

Billionaire Ron Baron: THIS is keeping lid on stocks - Yahoo Finance

Billionaire Ron Baron: THIS is keeping lid on stocks - Yahoo Finance



This is a great article featuring Ron Baron where he reveals why there is a market cap on stocks.  Stocks are not going much higher because everybody is pricing in rising interest rates.  There is an old saying that when interest is low, stocks will grow, and when interest is high, stocks will die.  So, only the best stocks might get double digit returns while the S&P 500 will probably be stuck with single digit returns from now until the next bear market.



Another point Ron mentioned is that the Dow at 18,000 pretty much equals the GDP at 18 trillion dollars.  This means that stocks are not overpriced although gains will be slim.  He also said that the Federal Reserve will not raise rates fast because high rates will make it hard for the country to pay interest on debts.  Thus, we need to buy only "new highs" like AMBA which has more room to run or buy mispriced stocks like natural gas, UGAZ.  These two stocks are my biggest holdings.




Monday, June 15, 2015

10% Correction Coming to the S&P? Could Be 20% - TheStreet

10% Correction Coming to the S&P? Could Be 20% - TheStreet



Here is a great article about what kind of corrections we can expect at a stock market top that still has fuel from Federal Reserve help along with other central bankers in the world joining in.  As long as the economy is okay according to Fed statistics, any significant pullback should be bought.  I agree with the author that 3% to 9% corrections are what we can expect.  If the market declines more than this, we could be tipped into a bear market by margin selling and stampedes by everyone trying to exit at the same time.



CreateSpace Community: Resources: Twist

CreateSpace Community: Resources: Twist



As I occasionally do, I will write about subjects other than the stock market.  A good story plot is not easy to make.  First, you need to have a story line that no one has ever heard before.  In this way, people are pleasantly surprised at the story's climax.  Secondly, the plot must be interesting enough to hold the reader's attention until the end.  Thirdly, you must plant information throughout the story so that the conclusion is logical and yet still surprising.

  

Saturday, June 13, 2015

Cheat Sheets for Writing Body Language - Writers Write

Cheat Sheets for Writing Body Language - Writers Write



Here are some excellent tips if you ever plan to write a great American novel.  As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  Writing is one of my favorite interests along with owning stocks.  I have not yet figured out a good plot for a novel, but the body language tips by Amanda Patterson are really great.  An author must make a character look alive, and one way to do this is by body language.  Amanda's well-organized descriptive tables will help you to write more quickly since you won't have to reinvent the wheel on some things.

Applying A Dual Momentum Model To The IVY 10 Portfolio | Seeking Alpha

Applying A Dual Momentum Model To The IVY 10 Portfolio | Seeking Alpha



Lowell Herr has written an outstanding article about handily beating a traditional stocks-bonds portfolio with the Ivy 10 Portfolio from a book by Mebane Faber and Eric Richardson.  Lowell does a good job in explaining how the system works.  You buy the top two momentum stocks after a review every 33 days.  Then, you sell any stocks that are underperforming SHY, which is a short term bond ETF.  You don't want to lose any money although occasionally you will have slight losses.



Lowell's dual momentum ETF plan had an average compound gain of 14.7% over a 9 year period which included the 2008-2009 bear market.  Is your current portfolio beating this 15% compound return momentum plan?  I plan to allocate up to 20% of my portfolio to this plan over time.  It will be done gradually, though, because I already have some strategies that are working for my current portfolio.  As we get closer to the stock market top before the next bear market, Lowell's plan could easily beat the market during this time frame along with providing downside protection since stocks that underperform SHY will be sold.

 

Bulls Hiding Behind Bears | Seeking Alpha

Bulls Hiding Behind Bears | Seeking Alpha



Eric Parnell has written a very good article about how to make the best of bear markets.  It is like he said, the next bear market could come tomorrow or three years from now.  We need to have a plan to cover different scenarios.



First, when the bear does arrive, there will be many signs and ample time to get most of your money to safety.  Not all sectors will immediately decline.  Staples, XLP, will be one of the last sectors to fall.  Several short ETFs can also make you a lot of money on the trip down:  SH, DXD, SQQQ, FAZ, SDOW, and TZA.



Secondly, Eric mentioned that there will be double-digit tradeable rallies a number of times while going to the bottom.  $NYMO, the NYSE McClellan Oscillator, can show you when to buy oversold conditions, such as -60 or lower on the chart.  Just be certain that you buy quality stocks or indexes for the rallies, and sell once you are 10% up to assure you make a profit.





Monday, June 8, 2015

The #1 Stock In The World - VelocityShares Daily Inverse VIX Short-Term ETN (NASDAQ:XIV) | Seeking Alpha

The #1 Stock In The World - VelocityShares Daily Inverse VIX Short-Term ETN (NASDAQ:XIV) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an excellent article about why XIV, the low volatility index, should be your number one stock.  I agree with Chris DeMuth 100%.  As long as the economy shows no immediate signs of a recession, people will buy stocks over bonds even if stocks are expensive.



XIV has gained 35% over the last three months in spite of stock market uncertainty and many down days.  XIV should have been your best buy in the fall of 2011 when the market fell around 20% due to the Congressional partisan budget battles.  Another big buying point would have been at the first part of February in 2015 when the 10-year bond interest fell to 1.67% while the economy was just going through the winter blues.  Basically, we need to buy XIV whenever the 10-year bond interest is 2% or less.  Then, sell XIV when interest hits 3% if you just want to trade the stock.



  

Friday, June 5, 2015

Can Yacon Syrup Really Help You Lose Weight? An Objective Look

Can Yacon Syrup Really Help You Lose Weight? An Objective Look



As I occasionally do, I will talk about subjects other than the stock market.  The link above is for a website which talks about yacon, a South American tuber that supposedly promotes weight loss and other benefits.  The results probably depend on how much yacon you eat.  However, several impressive results occurred in addition to weight loss such as lower blood sugar, decreased LDL cholesterol, and improved bowel movements.  I am starting to use yacon capsules myself, and I have not seen any bad effects.  Time will tell if the good benefits occur while I continue to take the capsules on a daily basis.


Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Cramer Remix: An amazing stock not done rallying

Cramer Remix: An amazing stock not done rallying



Here is a very good article about Jim Cramer's views on various parts of the stock market.  He believes in playing it safe as well as going for home run stocks.  For example, Jim has always recommended that your first $10,000 investment should be in a broad market fund like the S&P 500.  I also like Vanguard's total market fund VTI.  In this way, a good portion of your money will be protected through automatic diversity rather than being devastated by a bad single stock pick.



Secondly, I believe a person should have ten percent invested in a broad bond fund.  Naturally, it will be disappointing sometimes when the general market handily beats the bond fund, but you will sleep better at night knowing that your bond fund is not subjected to the same volatility and huge bear market drops that occur with stocks.  I like Vanguard's BND fund for maximum stability, and I like PFN and DHY for higher yields while being invested in bonds.



Thirdly, I agree 100% with Cramer that the hottest stock in the market right now is Ambarella (AMBA).  I own the stock, and I plan to buy more.  They make the chips which go in GoPro cameras as well as chips for competitor companies.  Now, the camera industry is involved with drones as well as traditional uses.  The sky is the limit for AMBA, and a person should have up to forty percent of his or her portfolio in hot individual stocks.  This is also what makes the stock market so interesting if you are able to pick the right stocks. 



Fourth, utility stocks were also discussed in the article.  These are often picked for a higher dividend than low-paying bonds, but you can lose money on your principal amount if you are in utility stocks at the wrong time.  The article suggests that you should buy utility stocks after the Federal Reserve has started raising interest rates.