Friday, December 30, 2016

What Are the Health Benefits of Sauerkraut Juice? | Live Well - Jillian Michaels

What Are the Health Benefits of Sauerkraut Juice? | Live Well - Jillian Michaels

This is a great article on the benefits of sauerkraut juice. The brand that I like is Frank's Kraut Juice, and it is available at Amazon.com. It also tastes very good. Sauerkraut juice has plenty of good bacteria, and the juice wipes out bad bacteria. It also helps prevent cancer and even the flu.

Sunday, November 13, 2016

Does The Trump Rally Look Sustainable Or Vulnerable? - SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSEARCA:DIA) | Seeking Alpha

Does The Trump Rally Look Sustainable Or Vulnerable? - SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSEARCA:DIA) | Seeking Alpha

Chris Ciovacco has written an excellent article about what to expect with stock market direction under Trump. As usual, the outstanding charts that Chris shows tell it all. The charts are bullish rather than bearish. In addition, sector charts like JJC and IYT are also bullish. Trump is intent on making the economy better, and I believe the market will melt higher with infrastructure stocks outperforming the general market.

Saturday, November 12, 2016

Real Estate Review: Trump Wins, REITs Re-Price, Construction Surges - iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF (NYSEARCA:IYR) | Seeking Alpha

Real Estate Review: Trump Wins, REITs Re-Price, Construction Surges - iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF (NYSEARCA:IYR) | Seeking Alpha

This is an outstanding article about the dramatic rise in construction stocks since Trump has promised to build out our infrastructure. One construction ETF that the author mentioned is PKB, and I am buying it Monday morning. I believe the President will be able to keep his promise about rebuilding America, and construction stocks like PKB and VMC are the way to go except that Vulcan Materials (VMC) has a big overbought gap up that will probably come back to a more reasonable buying level.

Secondly, the author mentioned the fall of long-term bond prices, and this is related to foreigners selling bonds as well as people getting out of bonds to buy growth stocks. So, bonds are not the place to be right now. This also affects some preferred stocks since the preferred stocks may hold bonds.


Friday, November 11, 2016

FANG Is Dead - Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) | Seeking Alpha

FANG Is Dead - Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) | Seeking Alpha

Here is a very important article about why the FANG stocks are dead, especially Amazon which was the leader of the group. The market believes that AMZN may be topped out on revenues because companies cannot go up forever, and we have seen the same thing happen in the decline of Apple. From a technical standpoint, Amazon's top is also confirmed by Elliott Wave theory where wave 5 is the peak of the stock or the market itself.

Nevertheless, the author also believes that Amazon will be a buy at $697 for a trade where you might want to get off at $800. Whether you accept this trade or not, you could probably find other stocks to buy on market pullbacks. For example, the Dow went up while the Nasdaq went down on the Trump victory. Therefore, UDOW (3x Dow ETF) might be a good buy for a trade whenever stocks go down because the Dow seems to like Trump. You will need to sell for a profit at some point though because we are so near the peak in the market that buy and hold is dead.

Making Sense Out Of Trump Victory And Bond Bloodbath - SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSEARCA:DIA) | Seeking Alpha

Making Sense Out Of Trump Victory And Bond Bloodbath - SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSEARCA:DIA) | Seeking Alpha

This is a great article on why government bonds are going down while big company names in the stock market are also sinking. Foreign governments are dumping bonds because they don't like the possibility of trade wars happening with Trump as the President. Usually government bonds are a safe place to hide when stocks are going down, but this is not the case in the new world order.

Secondly, interest rates are going up whether the Federal Reserve raises rates or not. This will result in a downturn for real estate, and the short real estate ETF, SRS, might be the best way to trade this scenario. Moreover, businesses will also be tanking because higher interest rates will make it harder for them to expand their companies or even keep the status quo.

Thirdly, while some say that banks thrive in a higher interest environment, the other side of the coin is that banks can lose on defaults and fewer loans due to the higher interest. This affects the so-called safe preferred stocks that have been paying attractive dividends. They are tied to banks enough that they will go down with the rest of stocks as interest rates rise.

Sunday, October 30, 2016

Amazon: Will Investors Get A Kick From The Company's Latest Spending Cycle? - Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) | Seeking Alpha

Amazon: Will Investors Get A Kick From The Company's Latest Spending Cycle? - Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) | Seeking Alpha



Here is another great article about Amazon.  The author covers many good aspects in the fundamentals for AMZN.  The free cash flow is growing (60% YOY), and revenues increased 29%.  The company earned 52 cents per share.  This does not sound like a broken company.  It is a growing company that should be bought on all big pullbacks.  Also, the company opened 18 distribution centers and grew its warehouse footprint by 30%.   Amazon will be a buy for probably many years.


Amazon Pulls Back, Prime Enters China; Uber's Self-Flying Vehicles - Eye On Tech - Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) | Seeking Alpha

Amazon Pulls Back, Prime Enters China; Uber's Self-Flying Vehicles - Eye On Tech - Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article about why Amazon is a buy after the 5% earnings drop.  I own Amazon myself, and I was certainly disappointed with the pullback, but stuff like this happens sometimes.  Cramer is also saying that AMZN is a buy now.



However, if I had been doing my due diligence, I would have temporarily sold Amazon before earnings, and I could buy it back now at a 5% discount.  The reason I am saying this is that technical charts often tell what is going to happen to a stock before big drops occur.   After the big drop in AMZN following earnings, I finally did some technical analysis which I should have been doing all along.  Amazon violated the 89 day simple moving average line several days before it crashed at earnings time.  I should have known to sell at that point, and I would have avoided the 5% loss.  The smart money or insiders had already been selling Amazon.  The MACD was pointing down at that time also.  So, Amazon's chart was telling us that something bad was about to happen.  I'll try to pay more attention in the future.



That is now water under the bridge.  I am holding onto Amazon because I don't want to sell after the drop, and the stock is a long-term buy.  Susquehanna has a $1,250 price target for AMZN.  So, I believe Amazon is a buy on all large drops like the one we just got.


Tuesday, October 18, 2016

When to buy TMF, the 3x long bonds ETF

I have successfully traded TMF, the 3x long bonds ETF, a number of times.  It follows closely what TLT does which is the popular government long bonds ETF without any leverage.  Today, I read an article by Jeff Clark about how TLT is due for a reversal to the upside.  This means that even more money can be made with TMF since it is a triple ETF.

Jeff made some key points about TLT in his article.  He said that TLT rarely goes more than 3.6% below its 50 day average before it reverses, and that is where it is now.  Moreover, its RSI is low, and the MACD is pointing upward.  This trading situation has happened three times this year.  Therefore, we need to make money while the trade is there because it won't last since the Federal Reserve will eventually raise interest rates.


Sunday, October 16, 2016

Pullback or New Bear Market? - YouTube

Pullback or New Bear Market? - YouTube



Here is a great pictorial discussion of bear and bull market signs.  The main indicators are currently on the side of a bull market.  The 2000 and 2008 indicators were clearly going down, and that is not what we have today.  So, we are safe, but picking good stocks is imperative.

Is It Time To Throw In The Bullish Towel? - iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV) | Seeking Alpha

Is It Time To Throw In The Bullish Towel? - iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV) | Seeking Alpha



Chris Ciovacco has written an outstanding article on the state of the stock market.  I agree with him that we are not yet tipping into a bear market.  The market daily and weekly averages are not all going down like they were in 2000 and 2008.  We appear to be in a consolidation phase instead.  Only the strongest stocks are doing well, though.  AMZN is my largest holding, and I own several preferred stock funds as well so that I get paid while I wait.


Saturday, September 24, 2016

Dividend Stock Yields 12.3%, Trades At A Large Discount, Insiders Buying Massively - Medley Capital (NYSE:MCC) | Seeking Alpha

Dividend Stock Yields 12.3%, Trades At A Large Discount, Insiders Buying Massively - Medley Capital (NYSE:MCC) | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article on MCC, a business development company that is paying a 12% dividend along with a lot of insider buying.  Stock returns for the general stock market will probably just be single digits during the next two years with gut wrenching volatile happening also.  So, it is a good idea to hold up to half of your portfolio in quality dividend stocks in order to get paid while the rest of the market turns and burns.  I own many dividend stocks already, and I plan to add MCC to my portfolio soon.

Sunday, September 11, 2016

The Great Debt Unwind Beneath the Surface: US Commercial Bankruptcies Soar | Wolf Street

The Great Debt Unwind Beneath the Surface: US Commercial Bankruptcies Soar | Wolf Street



Here is a very good website for stock market and other important information.  Wolf Richter talked about commercial bankruptcies in a home page article, and this means that more economic trouble could be around the corner.  Wolf also has a website section on the central banks and what is happening around the world economically.  So, this website is one that you should check often for important news about stocks and the economy.



Could This Bull Market End Up Rivaling The Tech Bubble? This Strategist Thinks So - Here's Why - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

Could This Bull Market End Up Rivaling The Tech Bubble? This Strategist Thinks So - Here's Why - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article on why the bull market will continue for a few more years even if we have a lot of volatility with it.  Pension funds are obligated to make money for employees, and stocks are making more than bonds right now.  The 2% Friday sell-off will probably be met with buying whenever people calm down over the threat of rising interest rates.  You also have insurance companies and foundations which are big investors.  These groups need to make 6 to 7.5% each year, and they are having to invest aggressively now. 


Stocks Sink With Bonds, Dollar Rallies as Complacency Broken - Bloomberg

Stocks Sink With Bonds, Dollar Rallies as Complacency Broken - Bloomberg



This is an outstanding article that explains why bonds and stocks both fell together on Friday.  Usually they move opposite of each other.  However, when the Federal Reserve is getting ready to raise interest rates, bonds will fall along with stocks.  This also happens when a recession is about to begin.  If a bear market arrives because of rising interest rates, government bonds will eventually reverse to the upside since people will ultimately seek the safest asset.


Saturday, September 10, 2016

Physical Gold And Silver Demand Beginning To Stymie Government Intervention - SPDR Gold Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:GLD) | Seeking Alpha

Physical Gold And Silver Demand Beginning To Stymie Government Intervention - SPDR Gold Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:GLD) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article explaining why owning gold and silver is becoming important in spite of the Federal Reserve talking about raising interest rates.  People will own precious metals if they have to pay banks to keep their money with negative interest rates.  The author also mentioned that world-wide demand for gold and silver will prevent any precious metal raids, and this will remain the case regardless of what happens in the U.S.  NUGT and USLV are two leveraged stocks I plan to trade over the coming months.  The article suggested buying silver when it falls to its 50 day average.

Saturday, September 3, 2016

The smart investing strategy a janitor used to build an $8 million portfolio

The smart investing strategy a janitor used to build an $8 million portfolio



This is a very good article on the value of long-term investing in quality stocks.  A Vermont janitor who died at 92 years of age had amassed an $8 million fortune through stocks by the time he died.  He owned at least 95 stocks when he passed away, and they were not all winners.  This shows the value of buying and holding for a long period of time, and it shows the great importance of diversification to protect your portfolio.  The fact that he succeeded by being greatly diversified with 95 stocks does away with the theory that you should only own a few stocks.



I recall when AMZN was selling for $9 per share and PLCN was selling for $5 per share in the early 2000s.  I made a major mistake by not buying both of them back then.  Amazon is now selling for $772 per share, and Priceline is selling for $1422 per share.  One thing that held me back from owning AMZN was that it always had a high PE, but that means nothing when the company is growing.  I did not buy PLCN because I did not understand the business well enough although I did buy Travelzoo which went nowhere compared to Priceline.



The bottom line is that I should have bought at least pilot investments in both stocks so that I could monitor their progress.  Then, when I saw that they were increasing their revenues virtually every year, that would have been the overwhelming clue that they were fabled multi-bagger stocks that should be held for many years.  I do own AMZN now, and I will probably buy PLCN on a large pullback.  We should always own world class stocks like these as soon as we realize they have the potential for capturing the whole world.




How To Quit Working In 5 Years With $330,000 In Savings | Seeking Alpha

How To Quit Working In 5 Years With $330,000 In Savings | Seeking Alpha



Here is an excellent article about how you can escape the rat race with high savings and by maintaining your investments through high dividend stocks.  PCI and PDI are both paying 12% dividends, and I will probably be adding them to my portfolio soon.  It is unlikely that the S&P 500 will beat 12% annually now that stocks are topped out.  You will also suffer from a lot of volatility by holding index funds under the current stock market conditions.  I am working toward at least 50% of my portfolio to be invested in high paying dividend stocks.



If I Had To Build An Income Portfolio Today - Update 10 | Seeking Alpha

If I Had To Build An Income Portfolio Today - Update 10 | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on holding high-yielding dividend stocks in your portfolio.  If you average 5% dividends on your stocks, your money will double in 15 years without adding any more money to your portfolio.  That might not sound like much, but we are talking about stable income while the overall stock market is volatile, and stocks look like we have reached a peak where advances will be much smaller or not at all.  PFF is my biggest stock holding, and I am making 5% each year from owning it.  I am thinking about adding OHI which was also on the author's list as well as HYG, quality corporate bonds.  Both of these last two stocks are also earning more than 5% each year in dividends.




Saturday, August 27, 2016

Is Dow Theory Telling Us The Stock Rally Is Going To Fail? | Seeking Alpha

Is Dow Theory Telling Us The Stock Rally Is Going To Fail? | Seeking Alpha



Here is an excellent article about investing aspects of the Dow stocks and transportation stocks.  If both are making new highs, we are in a bull market.  If both are making new lows, we are in a bear market.  If the Dow is making new highs while transportation is not, then we are in uncertain times. 



In other words, you are better sitting in preferred dividend stocks like PFF and FFC along with government bonds in BLV.  If you own individual stocks, it should be only the strongest ones like AMZN and FB.  I own all the stocks mentioned here since nobody knows what the stock market will do next.



Sunday, August 21, 2016

Realty Income Too Rich For Your Blood? Here's A Great High-Yielding, Faster Growing Alternative - Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O) | Seeking Alpha

Realty Income Too Rich For Your Blood? Here's A Great High-Yielding, Faster Growing Alternative - Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article telling about business REIT stocks.  The author discusses in detail about Realty Income being the best triple REIT stock except that it is overvalued now, and the dividend is lower than it used to be.  Spirit Realty is paying a dividend of more than 5%, and the author thinks the company has room to grow.  If you don't want to own individual business REIT stocks, you could own REIT funds like VNQ or FTY.  Anyway, stocks like these should be a part of each person's portfolio for proper diversification.

Saturday, August 20, 2016

S&P 500 Weekly Update: The Rally Continues With Fresh Record Highs In A Resilient Uptrend - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

S&P 500 Weekly Update: The Rally Continues With Fresh Record Highs In A Resilient Uptrend - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



This is a very good article about why the stock market will continue to rise.  Earnings are expected to rebound more than 13% in 2017 after declining the last several quarters.  However, since earnings season is over for this quarter, the market will probably gradually backtrack until the next earnings season.  Stock market leaders like AMZN, BABA, FB, and GOOG will be worthwhile for buying on pullbacks.  Just as they advanced during this past earnings season, they will be even higher after the next round of earnings.

Sunday, August 14, 2016

6 Ways To Treat Erectile Dysfunction Without Medication

6 Ways To Treat Erectile Dysfunction Without Medication



Here are some natural ways to improve your libido.  Red ginseng and Citrulline should be available on the internet.  It may take these plus arginine and other things to achieve success, but it will be worth it.

Saturday, August 13, 2016

Calendula: MedlinePlus Supplements

Calendula: MedlinePlus Supplements



Calendula is an excellent herb that can be used for slow wound healing.  It is available as a cream or liquid extract.  It comes from the marigold flower.  It also contains lutein which is very helpful for eyes.  I have already been taking extracts of Calendula orally, and I believe my eyes have been helped.  I am planning to order Calendula cream for skin irritations also.

Sell Everything! - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

Sell Everything! - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about how several large hedge fund leaders are advising investors against owning stocks and bonds.  While I agree in principle with these top investors, money can still be made in preferred stock ETFs, CEFs, and long term bonds.  I concur that future returns will be reduced from what we are accustomed to seeing, but some of the stocks that I own will average 5% or more on average in returns.  I recommend owning PFF, FFC, HTD, and BLV to keep making money while uncertainty continues about the total stock market direction.


Sunday, August 7, 2016

Between A Rock And A Hard Place - ProShares UltraShort 20+ Year Treasury ETF (NYSEARCA:TBT) | Seeking Alpha

Between A Rock And A Hard Place - ProShares UltraShort 20+ Year Treasury ETF (NYSEARCA:TBT) | Seeking Alpha



Lance Roberts has written an excellent article about the current state of the state market.  The bears really got gored this past week by the bull when good employment numbers came out.  This also may become a frequent scenario while the stock market is at a top.



Another good point Lance made was about the STUB stocks (staples, telecom, utilities, and bonds) doing well this year.  I am planning to buy XLP, the staples ETF, sometime in the near future.  The stock is near its 50-day support line, and it should be going up again soon.  I also plan to buy IDV, the international dividend select ETF, which is paying more than 5% now in dividends.

High Dividend Stock Yields 9%, Pays Monthly, 4 Dividend Payouts, Below Book Value - Gladstone Investment (NASDAQ:GAIN) | Seeking Alpha

High Dividend Stock Yields 9%, Pays Monthly, 4 Dividend Payouts, Below Book Value - Gladstone Investment (NASDAQ:GAIN) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article article on GAIN, a high dividend paying business development company.  I own the company myself, and I plan to buy more soon.  While it is true that the stock market in general has made new highs, I question how long the bull rally will last.  I have been maintaining around 50% of my portfolio in bonds and dividend stocks because I don't know what the major indexes will do over the long term.  So, it is wise to have a good portion of your portfolio in stocks that will pay you no matter what the rest of the stock market does.

Saturday, August 6, 2016

Psyllium: What Are the Health Benefits?

Psyllium: What Are the Health Benefits?



This is an excellent article on taking psyllium for regular bowel movements and other benefits.  The brand I like is Metamucil because it tastes okay, and I think it is the safest laxative to take.  Phillips milk of magnesia helps some, but there is a problem with taking too much magnesium.  It can cause bone deterioration.  So, Metamucil is by far my best choice for getting enough fiber.



Psyllium also reportedly helps the heart and lowers cholesterol.  Another study showed that just 5 grams of psyllium per day controlled diabetes.  So, I highly recommend taking psyllium on a regular daily basis.

 

Sunday, July 31, 2016

The 2 Most Dangerous Months - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

The 2 Most Dangerous Months - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article about why August and September are the worst months of the year to be in the stock market.  As Lance Roberts noted, we will soon know whether or not the market new highs were just a false head fake.  Lance also backed up his ideas with several great charts.



I agree with Lance 100% on his 35% allocation to bonds.  Since you never know what stocks will do, you will almost always make a little money on bonds.  In fact, my personal portfolio is around 50% allocated to bonds and preferred stocks.  So, I will be making money even if we have a bad downturn.




Oil Price Is Falling - Where To Invest - The United States Oil ETF, LP (NYSEARCA:USO) | Seeking Alpha

Oil Price Is Falling - Where To Invest - The United States Oil ETF, LP (NYSEARCA:USO) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article on the state of the oil industry and alternative energy.  Now is not the time to be bullish on oil since prices will likely stay low or go even lower.  Likewise, there is little incentive for alternative energy while the price of oil is so low.



Saturday, July 30, 2016

US Treasuries: It's The Surpluses, Stupid! - iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:TLT) | Seeking Alpha

US Treasuries: It's The Surpluses, Stupid! - iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:TLT) | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about why long term bonds are still in a bull market.  As the author mentioned, people think bonds are in a bubble just like stocks, but they will not be going down anytime soon.  Foreigners prefer the security of U.S. bonds, and the interest being paid is greater than other bonds from negative interest and lower interest countries.



Secondly, even while the stock market has made new highs, stocks will eventually come down, and bonds will go up when this happens because investors will rush for the most secure place for their money.  I own BLV and TMF as long term bond funds, and I am making money.  So, don't let anyone talk you out of owning bonds.

Sunday, July 24, 2016

#1 Rated Backlink Indexing Service | Index Backlinks to Boost Rankings

#1 Rated Backlink Indexing Service | Index Backlinks to Boost Rankings



Here is an excellent website if you are serious about growing your presence on the internet.  Having your website appear on Google's first search page is a very big deal.  In my own searches on the web, I know that I rarely go past the first page in looking for something.  So, this is your chance to get your website well known.

Thursday, July 14, 2016

Cramer's warning: How the market's hot streak will end

Cramer's warning: How the market's hot streak will end



Jim Cramer has advised people in this article to take some profits just in case the stock market falls from its new highs since the market cannot go up forever.  He also said that the market could consolidate for a while and work off the overbought conditions.  I agree with Jim on his conclusions and advice.  We must be very cautious and ready for anything at a stock market top.



Sunday, July 10, 2016

Twitter's Best Idea In Years - Twitter, Inc. (NYSE:TWTR) | Seeking Alpha

Twitter's Best Idea In Years - Twitter, Inc. (NYSE:TWTR) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on Twitter.  I own shares of the company and I am buying more on Monday.  The breaking news stories and streaming live sports events will help Twitter increase its customer base and revenues.  TWTR and TSLA are two companies that I own that will thrive in a flat stock market.

Saturday, July 9, 2016

5 Reasons To Doubt Friday's Rally - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

5 Reasons To Doubt Friday's Rally - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



Eric Parnell has written a great article about how the good jobs report does not mean everything is well with the stock market.  The rest of the world is not doing that well, and sooner or later it will be reflected in the U.S. stock market.  So, we need to be very selective in stock buying since the party probably will not last, and we need to set stops just in case the market suddenly turns downward.

When The Bond And Stock Markets Disagree - PowerShares 1-30 Laddered Treasury Portfolio ETF (NYSEARCA:PLW) | Seeking Alpha

When The Bond And Stock Markets Disagree - PowerShares 1-30 Laddered Treasury Portfolio ETF (NYSEARCA:PLW) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article of what to think about when stocks and bonds disagree.  Many believe the stock market is at a top, and they are buying bonds for safety.  I lean in this direction, but as long as interest rates are low the stock market can go higher.  When the ten-year bond interest gets near 4%, we will be at the doorstep of a bear market because businesses will have to pay too much to borrow money for operations.  We are not even close to that situation yet.



The author presented some excellent charts about the yield curve flattening which leads to a bear market, though.  He compared the 10-year yield to the 2-year bond yield and proved that recessions occur when the yield curve is near 0.  Another point which was made by the author is that foreign investors and loading up on long-term U.S. treasury bonds because it is money safety and many foreign countries offer lower yields on bonds.  So, the bottom line is that we need to be defensive on stocks and keep a constant eye out for danger signs.

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Peacocks, a Unique Watchdog

Peacocks are not only beautiful, but they are very interesting birds.  When my neighbor started raising peacocks a few years ago, I was apprehensive at first.  I saw a video one time of a peacock attacking a photographer.  So, I knew I needed to be careful around them.

A large peacock can weight around 40 pounds, and it will be bigger than a turkey.  It happened that the neighbor's biggest peacock, Buster, became friends with me after I started feeding it bread every day.  When he walks through the carport, I can hear him coming.  That's how big he is.

Buster is an excellent watchdog also.  Peacocks can actually fly to a certain extent.  They can fly more than 10 feet upward in a single flight.  Therefore, if you have a garage or carport, they will be on top of it.  Once they get on your garage, they can fly to nearby tree limbs to perch.  They can also fly directly to low hanging limbs of trees around your house.

At night, Buster will squawk at anything that moves.  He usually perches at night in a tree within 10 feet of the carport.  When I get up in the morning to get ready for work, he will squawk and let me know he is aware that I am up.  So, peacocks can be wonderful companions as well as beautiful birds.

Monday, May 30, 2016

Beta-Alanine - Scientific Review on Usage, Dosage, Side Effects | Examine.com

Beta-Alanine - Scientific Review on Usage, Dosage, Side Effects | Examine.com



This is an outstanding article about the benefits of beta-alanine.  I have been taking small doses for quite some time, but I plan to double my doses after reading this article.  Body-builders are the people who use it primarily, but I am convinced that ordinary people can benefit also.



First, beta-alanine builds muscle, and everyone needs to be in some kind of reasonable shape physically.  Secondly, beta-alanine is a fountain of youth supplement because it delays the effects of aging on muscles and probably other body parts as well.  In fact, the article mentions that it reduces the rate of telomere shortening, and this is directly related to the length of a person's life.  Thirdly, it strengthens back muscles, and this is very significant for anyone who has ever had back problems.



On the downside, however, beta-alanine and taurine are antagonistic to each other.  If you happen to take too much beta-alanine, it could cause a depletion of taurine which affects muscle energy.  If taurine levels get too low, you could have muscle cramps.  If your taurine level is too high, though, you could get jitters and heart problems the same as too much caffeine.  Moderation in everything is the key.





  

Sunday, May 29, 2016

How do I know if I'm dehydrated? 9 symptoms to look out for - TODAY.com

How do I know if I'm dehydrated? 9 symptoms to look out for - TODAY.com



Here is a very good article about how to avoid dehydration.  Eight glasses of water or 64 ounces of water has often been quoted as what we need.  As the author mentioned, if you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.  If you are having muscle cramps, you are also dehydrated and may be low on salt as well.  Two liters of water per day might be another easy way to assure you are getting enough.  I usually fill up two empty liter water bottles per day with tap water until the bottles get old.  If I see the water is gone at the end of the day, I know I have gotten enough.  I also drink carbonated mineral water as well as coffee, sodas, fruit juices, and milk.

 

10 Turmeric Benefits: Superior to Medications? - Dr. Axe

10 Turmeric Benefits: Superior to Medications? - Dr. Axe



This is an excellent article about the benefits of turmeric.  This spice increases blood circulation, and it has anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin without the side effects.  Turmeric can also reduce the size and kill cancer cells related to the bowels, stomach, and skin.  It works great against breast cancer, too.  I just took a turmeric capsule myself because I believe in the benefits.


Pistachio Nutrition Lowers Bad Cholesterol + Boosts Eye Health - Dr. Axe

Pistachio Nutrition Lowers Bad Cholesterol + Boosts Eye Health - Dr. Axe



Here is a great article about the benefits of pistachios.  They lower LDL cholesterol for good heart health, and they provide unique nutrients for the eyes that other nuts do not have.  Pistachios also improved sexual function in a study because the nuts have arginine which increase nitric oxide which in turn opens blood vessels more. 



49 kernels are considered to be a serving.  This amount contains almost 6 grams of protein and around 13 grams of good unsaturated fat.  A serving also provides 20% of the daily requirement of copper and thiamine (B1).  I ate some pistachios when I saw this article because I knew they were good for me, and I have always liked the taste of pistachios.


5 Proven, Remarkable Stinging Nettle Benefits - Dr. Axe

5 Proven, Remarkable Stinging Nettle Benefits - Dr. Axe



This is an outstanding article on the benefits of stinging nettle.  It can help prevent or stop prostate cancer.  Nettle also is useful against arthritis pain and hay fever.  Moreover, stinging nettle can help with eczema skin problems.  I just ordered an alcohol extract of the herb today, and I plan to report back on my results in a few weeks.

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Isolated systolic hypertension: A health concern? - Mayo Clinic

Isolated systolic hypertension: A health concern? - Mayo Clinic



This is an excellent article explaining why the lower blood pressure number can be good and the higher blood pressure number can be bad.  It could be caused by artery stiffness or heart valve problems.  So, it needs to be monitored by the person and his doctor.  Another possibility is the effect of an energy drink right before the test or a stressful situation.  One other good point in the article is that people over 60 can have a high systolic number of 149 and still be okay.  In other words, they would not need treatment.  You don't want to lower your blood pressure so much that the diastolic lower number becomes a problem.  You could have a heart attack with a diastolic number less than 70.

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Investors throw in the towel on stocks

Investors throw in the towel on stocks



Here is an excellent article about how many investors have fled from owning stocks.  I can't much blame anyone after the two devastating bear markets since the year 2000.  However, holding bonds and preferred stocks will work in a shaky stock market or a topped out market.  I hold BLV and TMF for bonds, and I own preferred stock funds like PFF and FFC.  We need to be gaining something for our money each year even if it is only 4 or 5% because a mere 5% gain on $50,000 will become $103,946 in just 15 years.

  

Friday, May 6, 2016

5%+ Dividend Yield Portfolio - 10% Returns For March/April 2016 | Seeking Alpha

5%+ Dividend Yield Portfolio - 10% Returns For March/April 2016 | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on many high-paying dividend stocks that are mostly safe in a stock market that is going nowhere.  A few high-gain non-dividend stocks are also included in the article.  I plan to do a lot more specific research about the author's recommendations because he is doing great in the 2016 market.


Sunday, May 1, 2016

My Top 5 Long Stocks | Seeking Alpha

My Top 5 Long Stocks | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article about 5 good stocks.  I especially like TransCanada, and I plan to buy TRP as soon as possible.  Other excellent picks are AQUNF and CWCO.  I will probably buy these latter stocks after I have bought TRP.  I believe these companies will be worthwhile to own in a stock market that has mostly topped out in many other stocks.

This Tiny Silver Miner Can Explode - Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd (NYSEMKT:ASM) | Seeking Alpha

This Tiny Silver Miner Can Explode - Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd (NYSEMKT:ASM) | Seeking Alpha



This is an excellent article about a promising, cost effective silver and gold miner.  As you probably know, cellphone makers use silver and gold in their phones, and this low cost miner has a contract with Samsung for the next two years.  Moreover, the bottom is probably in for gold and silver prices.  I will most likely buy shares of ASM in the near future.

Friday, April 29, 2016

This CEF Provides Exposure To The Best High-Tech Names With 7.7% Yield - Nuveen Nasdaq 100 Dynamic Overwrite Fund (NASDAQ:QQQX) | Seeking Alpha

This CEF Provides Exposure To The Best High-Tech Names With 7.7% Yield - Nuveen Nasdaq 100 Dynamic Overwrite Fund (NASDAQ:QQQX) | Seeking Alpha



This is a very good article about a closed end fund which includes the growth of the Nasdaq along with a great dividend due to covered call writing.  The stock has beaten the S&P 500 in the past 5 and 10 year periods in total return.  The 7% quarterly dividend that is supported through call options can be a good return in a flat and volatile stock market.  I try to maintain around 50% of my portfolio in dividend paying stocks and bonds, and I will consider adding QQQX to my portfolio in the future.

TransCanada - A Long-Term Growth Opportunity - TransCanada Corporation (NYSE:TRP) | Seeking Alpha

TransCanada - A Long-Term Growth Opportunity - TransCanada Corporation (NYSE:TRP) | Seeking Alpha



Here is an excellent article on TransCanada.  The company is growing its infrastructure as well as its stock price.  It is a very significant pipeline company for oil and natural gas, and the long-term prospects are great.  TRP has a good 4% quarterly dividend in addition to a capital gain or more than 50% from the 52-week low.  Because of the company's vast natural gas pipeline structure in the U.S., TRP will certainly gain as we burn less coal and switch to more natural gas.  I am planning to buy TransCanada very soon.



The Biggest Uranium ETF Is Up By 25%, While Uranium Price Collapses. How Is It Possible? - Global X Uranium ETF (NYSEARCA:URA) | Seeking Alpha

The Biggest Uranium ETF Is Up By 25%, While Uranium Price Collapses. How Is It Possible? - Global X Uranium ETF (NYSEARCA:URA) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article on the state of the uranium industry.  Everyone is aware that we will be using more uranium in the future, but we currently have a glut of uranium supply just like the situation with oil.  The article talks about falling uranium prices while a pickup in demand is supposed to be just around the corner.  The uranium ETF, URA, has risen 11% in the past month, and Nexgen Energy is up 59%.  I bought NXGEF today because I think it can go higher.  So, uranium stocks might be profitable in the long term if you are willing to ride out some volatility.

Broadwind Energy's (BWEN) CEO Stephanie Kushner on Q1 2016 Results - Earnings Call Transcript | Seeking Alpha

Broadwind Energy's (BWEN) CEO Stephanie Kushner on Q1 2016 Results - Earnings Call Transcript | Seeking Alpha



Here is a great article on the quarterly results of Broadwind.  I bought shares in the company today as soon as I saw the quarterly report.  BWEN is unmistakably growing along with wind energy.  Now is the time to get on board especially with the rest of the stock market being lackluster.

Saturday, April 23, 2016

Debt-To-Equity Oil Bankruptcies And Hedge Fund Investing Suggest Oil Price Floor, Industry Rebound | Seeking Alpha

Debt-To-Equity Oil Bankruptcies And Hedge Fund Investing Suggest Oil Price Floor, Industry Rebound | Seeking Alpha



This is a very good article about how the bottom has probably happened for the price of oil.  Production of U.S. oil will continue to decline through 2017, and this will gradually diminish the oil surplus.  Investors are already getting long on oil because of the light at the end of the tunnel.  If you wait until the oil surplus disappears, you will miss out on the oil price rise.



Saturday, April 16, 2016

4 Fixed Income CEFs To Protect Against 'Rising Interest Rates' (Yield Up To 9.3%) | Seeking Alpha

4 Fixed Income CEFs To Protect Against 'Rising Interest Rates' (Yield Up To 9.3%) | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about fixed income CEFs offering yields between 7% and over 9%.  The author focuses on short-duration holding CEFs with high yields.  All of the CEFs mentioned pay their dividends monthly.  So, you get constant gratification that you are making money each month.  It is also unlikely that the general stock market will beat these yields since stocks are at a market top.  You will also have gut-wrenching volatility with stocks because everybody knows that stocks should go down, and yet powerful forces continue to keep the market afloat because they do not want to kill the golden goose yet!

The Last Innings Of An Aging Bull Market | Seeking Alpha

The Last Innings Of An Aging Bull Market | Seeking Alpha



Here is an outstanding article about the state of the stock market.  As the author stated, the bull market has gone on for so long that hedge funds have been demolished since nobody can predict where stocks are going next.  The 2015-2016 chart of the Dow shows a clear market top downtrend like 2000-2001 and 2008-2009, and yet the market refuses to go down.  It is rallying toward new highs instead.



Sunday, April 3, 2016

Fibonacci Calculations

Home - Fibonacci Stocks



A lot of information exists at Fibonacci-Stocks.com, but I want to talk about Fibonacci calculations today.  Trends occur frequently in the stock market where the S&P 500 or another index might go in an upward direction without any significant drawback for a long period of time.  When a peak occurs which is followed by large correction, you can then analyze the pattern that just occurred.



For example, the S&P 500 fell to 666 in 2009 at the close of the last bear market.  From a low of 666, the S&P 500 went to a value of 1219 in 2010 almost uninterrupted.  A downtrend occurred from 1219 which ended the previous uptrend.  So, 100% of the uptrend happened between 666 and 1219.  The stock market in 2010 continued the downtrend until it reached 1010, and this happened to be a 38.2% retracement of the previous uptrend.  Since the market reversed to another uptrend at 1010, the retracement cycle was completed at that point.  The lesson that we can learn from this is that a 38% retracement is a buying opportunity if we are not in a bear market.  Interest was also low in 2010, and stocks will grow when interest is low.





Saturday, April 2, 2016

How Far Will Stocks Fall? - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha

How Far Will Stocks Fall? - SPDR S&P 500 Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY) | Seeking Alpha



This is an outstanding article by Eric Parnell which explains the ups and downs of the stock market.  Fibonacci pattern retracements occur often, and Eric has done a great job of explaining these movements.  Whether you believe in Fibonacci numbers or not, Wall Street has enough investors who do abide by the numbers to make it a predictable sequence that should be observed.



Since we do not know when the market will fall, we need to apply these principals to tradeable bottoms rather than tops.  In other words, if we see stocks falling hard, we should note the last significant peak and figure out where a 38.2% retracement from the peak would leave us.  Then, we could buy quality stocks or ETFs at this probable bottom.  If we are in a recession or bear market, the bottom will be somewhere near 50% or 61.8% from the top.

Sunday, March 27, 2016

Goldman Calls Lithium The New Gasoline - Get In Before It's Too Late Or Stay Out? | Seeking Alpha

Goldman Calls Lithium The New Gasoline - Get In Before It's Too Late Or Stay Out? | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article about bright prospects of lithium in an otherwise dull stock market.  AES is particularly attractive because they have gained over 20% recently due to their storage power business.  They also have a dividend of almost 4%.  Multiple companies are also entering the electric car market.  This will increase the demand for lithium.  GALXF is a lithium producer worth being on your watch list.  It has gained more than 100% in the past year.



HMGLF is another good lithium producer.  I own this stock myself.  They have a contract for supplying lithium to Tesla for five years.  They are located near Tesla's gigantic battery factory that is being built in Nevada.  It has gained over 100% in the past year just like Galaxy above.



Saturday, March 26, 2016

Remarkable Skin Regenerator- Forgotten Tamanu Oil Has been Revived : Underground Health Reporter

Remarkable Skin Regenerator- Forgotten Tamanu Oil Has been Revived : Underground Health Reporter



Here is an excellent article on the skin healing benefits of Tamanu oil.  It promotes the formation of new tissue and speeds up healing.  It is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.  Tamanu oil has even been used for leprosy and gangrene.  One case of gangrene was completely healed.  You want to buy Tamanu oil that is cold-pressed and green in color.  I recommend the Pur 365 brand that you can buy at Amazon.com.  The oil is also not irritating, and it can be used for many skin problems.



Tuesday, February 9, 2016

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

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



This is a great article on the benefits of cordyceps.  It helps with circulation to various areas and it improves liver function.  It may also fight against cancer.  The main problem would be finding a high quality extract.  Then, you would have to experiment to find an effective dose.  When I find out these answers, I will write about cordyceps again. 


Saturday, February 6, 2016

Top 10 Analyst Rated Biotech Stocks - Slide 1 of 10

Top 10 Analyst Rated Biotech Stocks - Slide 1 of 10



Here is an excellent article on biotech stocks that might be worthwhile.  Since the general stock market is going nowhere, it might be a good time to make small investments in some of these companies like ANAC which have an outstanding product.  Holding government bonds or bond funds like BLV is also a great idea in troubled times.

Monday, January 25, 2016

Health Benefits of Boron | Organic Facts

Health Benefits of Boron | Organic Facts



Here is a great article on the benefits of boron.  This mineral is definitely useful for maintaining strong bones.  It increases calcium levels in bones and cartilage.  Moreover, boron reportedly helps against heart disease.  It reduces fat and cholesterol.  In addition, it decreases fungal infections.  Synerflex is the capsule form of boron that I prefer, and it includes other ingredients that help repair joints.


Saturday, January 23, 2016

Do The Bulls Have Any Reason For Hope? | Seeking Alpha

Do The Bulls Have Any Reason For Hope? | Seeking Alpha



Chris Ciovacco has written an outstanding article along with charts to explain the dangers of the stock market in 2016.  There is also hope if the market turns around as it did in 2011 and 1995.  We just don't have enough facts yet to determine the true direction of stocks.  The current situation is bearish because the S&P 500 is below its 50 day and 200 day moving averages.  Until the price of SPY gets above its 50 day line, and the 50 day line slope turns upward, we might be better off sitting on the sidelines.

Friday, January 22, 2016

The One Key Indicator That Will Determine Market Direction | Seeking Alpha

The One Key Indicator That Will Determine Market Direction | Seeking Alpha



Bret Jensen has written an excellent article that suggests the stock market may have turned around.  He used the high-yield corporate bond fund (HYG) as an indicator of market direction.  I agree with Bret on this.  The NYSE McClellan Oscillator ($NYMO) has also come off the bottom.  He also listed two stocks that would be worth buying if the HYG bounce holds up.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Testing the NYSE TICK Index - Analysis Concepts - Labs - Education - TradeStation

Testing the NYSE TICK Index - Analysis Concepts - Labs - Education - TradeStation



This is an outstanding article explaining the $TICK indicator for trading.  It is the sum of upticks and downticks on the NYSE.  TradeStation has determined that it can be profitable to go long when $TICK is oversold at -800 or -1000.  I plan to use $TICK along with other indicators to decide whether or not we are at short term bottom areas of the stock market.

Top 9 Silver ETFs

Top 9 Silver ETFs



This website has a table for 9 popular silver ETFs.  I know commodities are not popular right now, but oil might be near the bottom, and Chase Bank has reportedly been buying silver.  I already own a triple oil long ETF, UWTI, and I plan to buy more this week.  I also intend to buy USLV, the 3x long silver ETF.  These stocks will be long term holdings, though, because neither of these commodities will make super gains right away.  It may take two years to make a substantial profit, but the upside for stocks in general may be a lot less.

Here's Where Crude Oil Supply Will Unexpectedly Be Cut - The United States Oil ETF, LP (NYSEARCA:USO) | Seeking Alpha

Here's Where Crude Oil Supply Will Unexpectedly Be Cut - The United States Oil ETF, LP (NYSEARCA:USO) | Seeking Alpha



Here is a very good article on how the current oversupply of oil could eventually be resolved.  Nobody really wants to take a production cut.  However, some companies will have to stop production at some point to preserve their existence.  We will find the bottom price for oil when enough producers have reduced their supply of oil so that demand is actually more than supply.



Dow futures fall more than 300 points as oil, Asia selloff rattle investors

Dow futures fall more than 300 points as oil, Asia selloff rattle investors



This is an outstanding article about why we may be truly falling into a bear market.  As Rebecca O'Keeffe said, every upturn is met by deeper falls.  I was trying to be optimistic about Google and Facebook, but the rest of the stock market is going to pull these good stocks down.  I have entered tight stops to exit GOOG and FB today if the market falls hard like the futures indicate.



In addition to oil and futures bad news, $NYMO (NYSE McClellan Oscillator) is still in a double bottom around -81, and it will most likely stay there today or go lower.  This is highly unusual because $NYMO usually has V shape recoveries from oversold conditions.  The fact that the McClellan Oscillator is stuck in a greatly negative pattern means there will probably be no strong recovery.  We are about to take the next step down in a new bear market.



I am short the Dow, and I plan to add to my TMF position (3x long term treasuries) today because I believe we have fallen over the brink.  The stock market top is in, and only downside remains.  Even if we eventually get a positive reversal, I do not believe we will see the Dow at 18,000 again anytime soon.


Saturday, January 16, 2016

Why oil could plunge to $20 a barrel, but probably not $10 - MarketWatch

Why oil could plunge to $20 a barrel, but probably not $10 - MarketWatch



Here is an outstanding article about how low the price of oil can actually go.  The short answer is that oil could briefly go below $20 a barrel, but it could never last long at $10 per barrel because Saudi Arabia cannot supply the whole world with oil.  The author presented an excellent chart which showed the short-term break even costs for various countries.  We are getting close to where some countries may have to shut off their supply.  This in turn will increase the price of oil.



If you are a nimble trader, you could possibly make money playing the volatile movements of oil with UWTI and DWTI, the 3x up/down oil price ETFs.  The buying and selling should be done at the extreme edges of price movement because the stock market could easily over-react to oil prices for months to come since we have so much supply and a huge amount of speculation going on.



Wednesday, January 6, 2016

How To Spot A 2016 Recession While On The Horizon, And Prepare For It | Seeking Alpha

How To Spot A 2016 Recession While On The Horizon, And Prepare For It | Seeking Alpha



This is a great article on which economic indicators are really important and to what degree they are important.  For example, the non-manufacturing ISM report affects 68% of the GDP, and it is currently positive.  Secondly, the GPDNow report of the Atlanta Fed is also positive although it shows a slowing economy.  So, basically we should cautiously be invested in stocks.  Most of my money is invested in dividend stocks.  My second biggest investment area involves internet stocks like GOOG, PNQI, and FDN because the internet sector contains the strongest stocks.