http://www.maxgpublishing.com/index.htmlHot News!enMax GCopyright Max G Publishing2012-08-24T14:50:08-05:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Fri, 24 Aug 2012 14:51:12 -0500Max GSeeking AlphaMedia2012-08-24T14:50:08-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/vgipgCIuhPw/378a3d19d813fcd31f7c36f18e4f332a-124.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/378a3d19d813fcd31f7c36f18e4f332a-124.html#unique-entry-id-124Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) is still experiencing problems. They have had slower subscriber growth and a sharp drop in their second quarter earnings. The streaming video company is also facing threats from companies such as Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Coinstar (NASDAQ: CSTR), which are launching their own streaming video services. Content costs are rising. At the same time pricing moves by internet service providers could lead to lowered bandwidth use.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/378a3d19d813fcd31f7c36f18e4f332a-124.html#unique-entry-id-124Max GSeeking AlphaIndustrial2012-08-16T10:27:12-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/IrdF8YSk08c/3d8289b1b695611ed7dec72542685bd5-123.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/3d8289b1b695611ed7dec72542685bd5-123.html#unique-entry-id-123Teekay Corporation's (TK) second quarter loss narrowed as the tanker-ship company saw revenue rise and voyage expenses decline. The company also recorded a foreign exchange gain. Teekay has posted mixed results in recent quarters as derivatives affect its bottom line and a glut of tanker space pressures sport market rates. Last month Moody's lowered its outlook on Teekay to negative from stable. They are concerned about management's plan to use more equity capital when funding investments or possible asset sales to one of several publicly listed subsidiaries. Teekay reported a loss of $47.3 million, smaller than its loss the year prior of $96.5 million.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/3d8289b1b695611ed7dec72542685bd5-123.html#unique-entry-id-123Max GSeeking AlphaMedia2012-08-16T10:24:29-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/nozcFaorbpo/b19f5a2469c8caf60e25b20f4ccebc9a-122.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b19f5a2469c8caf60e25b20f4ccebc9a-122.html#unique-entry-id-122Lions Gate (NYSE: LGF) recently reported a second quarter net loss of $44.2 million compared with a gain of $10.3 million the year prior. Revenue increased 81% fueled by the release of "The Hunger Games." This revenue was not enough to offset the higher marketing costs to release the movie. Lions Gate released 5 movies in theaters in the second quarter, an increase from just one the year prior. The company has yet to see the benefits from home video sales of these releases, which is set for the third quarter. Lions Gate also cited the expense of integrating Summit Entertainment as a cause of profit loss. Lions Gate acquired Summit Entertainment, which made such films as "Twilight," for $412.5 million in January.

Read More……]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b19f5a2469c8caf60e25b20f4ccebc9a-122.html#unique-entry-id-122Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFood2012-08-16T07:57:07-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/qwt8VRDLEUc/4841e3a4072365d06838d55adca095d8-121.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/4841e3a4072365d06838d55adca095d8-121.html#unique-entry-id-121Dunkin' Brands Group (NASDAQ: DNKN) recently announced that certain stockholders will sell about 21 million shares in a secondary offering, with those investors receiving the proceeds. The chain also stated that it plans to buy back 15 million shares from certain stockholders. That is not the only good news tied to this company. The company's second quarter earnings rose 7.6%. Sales rose much faster than expected leading the company to raise its profit expectations for the year. Since the company went public in July 2011, Dunkin' Brands has been busy opening new doughnut shops and improving its U.S. Baskin Robbins business. The company has also been expanding internationally and paying down its debt. This year Dunkin' will be expanding its business both in the U.S. and abroad, making this a high growth stock.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/4841e3a4072365d06838d55adca095d8-121.html#unique-entry-id-121Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFood2012-08-15T17:07:52-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/QCHS7WU8s88/d02e66e2a64b69330bc682c87cfed0cd-120.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d02e66e2a64b69330bc682c87cfed0cd-120.html#unique-entry-id-120Pepsico (NYSE: PEP) recently announced that it will be pulling its low-calorie “G Series Fit” line of Gatorade products from shelves after they failed to catch on with hardcore fitness buffs and athletes.  The line, which launched in April, included a pre-workout protein bar, protein drink, and low-calorie version of the sports drink.  The company hopes to redesign the products and packaging in 2013, hoping to have the line back on the shelves in 2014.  The line was pricey and did not perform to the company’s expectations.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d02e66e2a64b69330bc682c87cfed0cd-120.html#unique-entry-id-120Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFinancial Services2012-08-14T16:06:48-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/I3qLBmBJvjg/1124f987bfa60f74a74d7ceb45a61d78-119.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/1124f987bfa60f74a74d7ceb45a61d78-119.html#unique-entry-id-119E*TRADE (NASDAQ: ETFC) recently announced that CEO Steven Freiberg is on his way out and chairman Frank Petrilli will be taking over as interim chief executive.  The board has formed a committee to oversee the process of searching for a long-term chief executive.  Raymond James analysts “believe this was a decision based on finding a different skill set at the CEO position.”  The company is searching for a new CEO to focus on strengthening its financial position as it adjusts its business strategy.  As individual consumers pull money out of the stock market, this online brokerage has been struggling.  E*TRADE’s net income dropped 16% in the second quarter year over year as there was lower trading activity.  The company is now trying to focus on managing costs and decreasing risk to strengthen earnings.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/1124f987bfa60f74a74d7ceb45a61d78-119.html#unique-entry-id-119Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-08-14T16:05:45-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/87OnR6Uh-D4/40ef812547b923377d18908eb67c6cf3-118.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/40ef812547b923377d18908eb67c6cf3-118.html#unique-entry-id-118Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) recently reported that its second quarter profit fell 21% as the chip maker logged higher operating costs, masking revenue growth.  The company actually reported revenue at the top end of its guidance for the quarter and earnings beat analysts’ expectations.  For the current quarter, the company expects revenue of $1.15 to $1.25 billion, topping average analyst estimates that predicted $1.09 billion.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/40ef812547b923377d18908eb67c6cf3-118.html#unique-entry-id-118Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFood2012-08-13T05:37:00-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/bSUcJha-W_M/2e26475fe4d1eb0034c9b2bf17b142a5-117.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/2e26475fe4d1eb0034c9b2bf17b142a5-117.html#unique-entry-id-117Recent reports from Dean Foods (NYSE: DF) showed the dairy giant swinging to a profit in the second quarter.  The company also said that it would spin off a fast-growing unit that sells organic dairy products and soy milk.  Dean Foods is planning to launch an IPO for 20% of its White Wave-Alpro unit, which makes popular brands including Horizon organic milk, Silk soy almond milks, and Alpro soy foods and drinks.  Dean Foods will retain the remaining 80% of the unit.  This news gave Dean Foods one of the largest percentage gains that day.  This move is smart as White Wave-Alpro and Dean Foods offer different products aimed at different customers.  The spin off will allow the units to be managed separately following different philosophies.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/2e26475fe4d1eb0034c9b2bf17b142a5-117.html#unique-entry-id-117Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTravel2012-08-13T05:31:18-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/re5XLNeQdm8/962d90871153b60214a819980ba6370f-116.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/962d90871153b60214a819980ba6370f-116.html#unique-entry-id-116Priceline (NASDAQ: PCLN) recently reported a disappointing third quarter profit outlook, expecting earnings per share of between $11.10 and $12.10.  An earlier forecast had the estimate set at $12.82 per share.  The company stated that economic conditions in Europe were the main reason for its forecast.  Stifel Nicolaus analyst George Askew cut his rating on Priceline to a hold from a buy, stating the company “is transitioning from a momentum stock to a growth stock.”  The results for Priceline are certainly not good, but this company is not being singled out.  It seems the larger online travel industry is slowing down, not only losing momentum, but losing a bit of their growth as well.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/962d90871153b60214a819980ba6370f-116.html#unique-entry-id-116Max GSeeking AlphaBrazil2012-08-13T05:30:10-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/cc09bUX43l4/b04dff1d53689b37f049469f291707e2-115.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b04dff1d53689b37f049469f291707e2-115.html#unique-entry-id-115Brazil's Energy Minister Edison Lobao reportedly stated recently that the country needs to raise fuel prices, although a formal decision has yet to be made. In June the state-run fuel company Petrobas (NYSE: PBR) raised prices for diesel and gasoline. In July it raised prices for diesel again. These raises were in an effort to fund its $237 billion investment plan that runs through 2016. Higher costs of imported fuel and the weakness in Brazil's currency led to Petrobas' first quarterly loss in 13 years for the second quarter. Analysts were expecting a profit as opposed to the $667 billion loss. Domestic output fell 2.4% year over year as Petrobas conducted maintenance work and closed some wells. The price increases are expected to bring Petrobas back into profitability.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b04dff1d53689b37f049469f291707e2-115.html#unique-entry-id-115Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkMedia2012-08-10T11:39:25-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/dJ8uExnefH0/7fb136f3e1130ab45d22c78783e11b38-114.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/7fb136f3e1130ab45d22c78783e11b38-114.html#unique-entry-id-114The New York Times (NYSE: NYT) recently announced that they will be selling About.com to Answers.com for $210 million.  The About.com unit took a nearly $200 million write-down in the second quarter while revenue declined 8.7%.  The site has had difficulty coping with changes to Google’s algorithms.  The change affected online traffic, leading to a decline in display and click advertising.  Since the New York Times purchased About.com in 2005, the site has produced profits that helped bolster the company’s financial picture.  At the same time the company’s newspaper business struggled to make the transition to digital.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/7fb136f3e1130ab45d22c78783e11b38-114.html#unique-entry-id-114Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-08-10T09:38:20-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/piNT978tLZQ/b4d6f7c857e12aefaee1223385c48aba-113.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b4d6f7c857e12aefaee1223385c48aba-113.html#unique-entry-id-113Richard Schulze, the founder and former chairman of Best Buy (NYSE: BBY), recently made a purchase offer on the remaining shares of the company that he doesn’t already own.  This deal values the company at up to $8.84 billion.  The offer is worth $24 to $26 per share, representing a premium at the time of announcement of 36% to 47%.  Schulze already has a 20% ownership stake in the company and the offer appears to stem from his deep experience with the company and therefore interest in its long-term success.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b4d6f7c857e12aefaee1223385c48aba-113.html#unique-entry-id-113Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-08-10T07:38:04-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/zlj49tRsL78/e974de8973a5086786ac2cea1a3118e0-112.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/e974de8973a5086786ac2cea1a3118e0-112.html#unique-entry-id-112Nam Tai Electronics (NYSE: NTE) recently happily announced its second quarter results for 2012.  Net sales increased 62.8% year over year to $205.2 million.  Net income increased 213% year over year to $9.4 million.  These good results are attributed to a few main factors.  The company’s profits improved likely due to a discontinuation of certain production orders that have had low sales and poor performance for the past few years.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/e974de8973a5086786ac2cea1a3118e0-112.html#unique-entry-id-112Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-08-10T07:37:09-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/Aq86CH-Lv2A/94bbbc272b11088b2acb60aff200b82c-111.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/94bbbc272b11088b2acb60aff200b82c-111.html#unique-entry-id-111Home Depot (NYSE: HD) announced recently that they will be paying $12.50 per share to acquire US Home Systems (NASDAQ: USHS), a supplier of kitchen and bath products, representing a 38% premium for shareholders at the time.  This will allow Home Depot to boost its home service business.  The deal is expected to close by the end of the year.  US Home Systems manufactures, designs, sells, and installs custom kitchen and bathroom cabinets and organizational storage systems for closets and garages.  The company markets, sells, and installs its products and services through Home Depot.  Bringing US Home Systems under Home Depot’s roof assists in expanding its home service offerings even further.  The deal was unanimously approved by the US Home Systems board of directors.  The companies already had a long-standing business relationship, with the company already serving Home Depot in 66 markets in the U.S. plus two in Canada.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/94bbbc272b11088b2acb60aff200b82c-111.html#unique-entry-id-111Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-08-10T07:35:59-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/S-3mLDIx17A/87a34848cdee01567a9e8f8c975d70a9-110.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/87a34848cdee01567a9e8f8c975d70a9-110.html#unique-entry-id-110Coach (NYSE: COH) increased 5% recently after being raised to a buy rating by a Canaccord Genuity analyst.  The analyst stated that the recent drop in the upscale handbag and accessories maker’s shares makes it an attractive investment.  Analyst Laura Champine noted that the company’s shares have fallen about 10% so far this year, while shares of similar luxury retailers have risen.  Coach has a 28% share in the U.S. handbag market, 17% in Japan, and 6% in China.  The company’s shares are currently trading at about 25% of other luxury retailers, where they have historically traded at about 15% below.  According to Champine: “We do not believe this discount is justified, given that Coach boasts industry-leading margins and returns.”  Coach does have a good track record.  The company has beaten Wall Street estimates in 85% of all quarters for the past five years.  However, in the most recent quarter, sales missed analysts’ projections in addition to the company’s own projections.  The company is facing rising competition from companies such as Michael Kors (NYSE: KORS) that are finding their way into the handbag category Coach previously dominated.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/87a34848cdee01567a9e8f8c975d70a9-110.html#unique-entry-id-110Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-08-10T07:34:51-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/yOjyIOW9rQQ/4360a1d0263a88a31496c806a511a870-109.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/4360a1d0263a88a31496c806a511a870-109.html#unique-entry-id-109Youku (NYSE: YOKU), a popular Chinese online television company, has been working to clean up its reputation and offer licensed content in an attempt to draw advertising dollars from foreign and domestic companies.  The company has faced struggles with piracy lawsuits, government censorship, and the state-owned media’s web expansion.  In the most recent quarter Youku posted a significant loss due to an increase in operating expenses, but the extra costs incurred to clean up their reputation might have been worth it.  Revenue increased 96%, which was in line with the company’s growth estimate of 90% to 100%.  For the third quarter, Youku is predicting revenue growth of 70% to 80%.  In an effort to continue that growth, Youku agreed to acquire competitor Tudou Holdings (NASDAQ: TUDO) to create the largest Chinese online-video company by advertising revenue.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/4360a1d0263a88a31496c806a511a870-109.html#unique-entry-id-109Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkDefense2012-07-31T17:39:20-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/IxAw62zM5NY/8976f3f0ac6022b2319cbf4de37b1187-108.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/8976f3f0ac6022b2319cbf4de37b1187-108.html#unique-entry-id-108Raytheon (NYSE: RTN) recently reported that their second quarter earnings rose 7.5%.  The company slated this increase as a result of lower costs and a widened profit margin.  As a result of the increase, Raytheon raised its earnings outlook for the year.  Per-share earnings of $5.70 to $5.85 are now expected, up from $5.55 to $5.70.  As Pentagon spending remains a topic for debate, Raytheon and its peers have been expanding into new markets and territories.  Raytheon is considered one of the most resilient U.S. Defense contractors, due in large part to its diversification and limited reliance on big-budget projects.  Raytheon is currently bidding on a project to provide Turkey with a missile defense system.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/8976f3f0ac6022b2319cbf4de37b1187-108.html#unique-entry-id-108Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTelecommunications2012-07-31T17:37:57-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/wHakSDZ7dEg/77d337b77b927e41ab2476d5182e4f98-107.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/77d337b77b927e41ab2476d5182e4f98-107.html#unique-entry-id-107Telefonica (NYSE: TEF) recently canceled its dividend and share-buyback policy for the year.  According to the company, there is no sign of significant sales growth in 2012.  The company plans to resume dividends in 2013, but at a reduced rate.  This might be cause for concern for some investors.  However, analysts at Goldman Sachs praised the company for this move, saying, “Our analysts believe that prioritizing liquidity and de-leveraging is the right step for Telefonica to take in the current environment, and may help the company avoid the loss of its investment grade credit rating even if the sovereign credit outlook deteriorates.”  In the long run, this move will prove positive for investors and for the valuation of the company as a whole.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/77d337b77b927e41ab2476d5182e4f98-107.html#unique-entry-id-107Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-07-26T15:29:02-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/qv_piegkvmE/d53908d7389cdd6b7ace0661da42d2e3-106.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d53908d7389cdd6b7ace0661da42d2e3-106.html#unique-entry-id-106Recently VMware (NYSE: VMW) agreed to purchase Nicira for $1.26 billion in cash and equity.  Nicira is considered the pioneer in software-defined networking and will be adding to VMware’s lineup of server virtualization software.  Similar to the way VMware’s virtualization partitions operating systems to perform the tasks of multiple computers, Nicira subdivides a network to operate like a dozen networks.  VMware expects Nicira’s software will help it improve the efficiency of computers in a data center.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d53908d7389cdd6b7ace0661da42d2e3-106.html#unique-entry-id-106Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-07-26T15:27:01-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/_BhWpsij778/fff3d6be547f99ebf2a8b1a0fe4eb53b-105.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/fff3d6be547f99ebf2a8b1a0fe4eb53b-105.html#unique-entry-id-105Under Armour (NYSE: UA) recently reported a second quarter profit increase of 6.8%.  This increase was the result of sales growth across all segments, led by footwear, which experienced a 44% surge.  Accessories and apparel also experienced double-digit gains, which led to sales and earnings exceeding Wall Street’s expectations, although higher marketing expenses did have an effect on bottom-line growth.  The company is continuing to build on its 2011 success when net sales climbed 40% to $1.44 billion.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/fff3d6be547f99ebf2a8b1a0fe4eb53b-105.html#unique-entry-id-105Max GSeeking AlphaEnergy2012-07-26T09:30:54-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/j8TejdnA4Ow/d4aafb373b527f2e5decce1744dab45d-104.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d4aafb373b527f2e5decce1744dab45d-104.html#unique-entry-id-104NRG Energy, Inc. (NRG) recently announced a $1.7 billion stock purchase of GenOn Energy, Inc. (GEN), making NRG the largest U.S. Independent electricity generator. In the deal, GenOn shareholders will receive 0.1216 share of NRG common stock for every one of their GenOn shares. This represents a 21% premium over GenOn's previous closing price. The combined companies will operate under the NRG name and bring together an enterprise value of $18 billion. The deal is scheduled to close by the first quarter of 2013.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d4aafb373b527f2e5decce1744dab45d-104.html#unique-entry-id-104Max GSeeking AlphaFood2012-07-23T13:53:25-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/NkP3k3WNy1A/73eedf7a9d308637e27ece4c3ff6be9e-103.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/73eedf7a9d308637e27ece4c3ff6be9e-103.html#unique-entry-id-103The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) recently announced its 5-year growth plan with some very optimistic expectations. The company is targeting $10 billion in net sales by the end of 2017. As part of a new strategy the company will be focusing on five core brands: Hershey's, Reese's, Hershey's Kisses, Jolly Rancher, and Ice Breakers. CEO John Bilbrey said in a statement, "Our marketplace and financial results over the last few years validate our consumer-driven approach to core brand investment in both U.S. And key international markets." The Hershey Company is a leading manufacturer of quality chocolate and non-chocolate confectionery and chocolate-related grocery products. The company is also a leader in the gum and mint category. Hershey operates worldwide with revenue of more than $5 billion.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/73eedf7a9d308637e27ece4c3ff6be9e-103.html#unique-entry-id-103Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkMinerals2012-07-23T11:58:59-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/BOb_QEz2Tmw/5e473856c3f8f5035e631f09ffa70e79-102.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5e473856c3f8f5035e631f09ffa70e79-102.html#unique-entry-id-102The growing popularity of devices that use Lithium batteries is turning into a boom for miners.  Prices for lithium have tripled since 2000 as more products, such as the iPad and Toyota’s Prius, are using the technology.  Lithium’s use in technology has been growing about 20% a year since 2000, and today accounts for 30% of global lithium demand.  Approximately 95% of the lithium market is controlled by four companies: Talison Lithium, Rockwood Holdings (NYSE: ROC), Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE: SQM), and FMC (NYSE: FMC).
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5e473856c3f8f5035e631f09ffa70e79-102.html#unique-entry-id-102Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkConstruction2012-07-23T08:32:32-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/36NgVflck28/cbe7dcfb0c1a6e029e8f81967b3bb940-101.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/cbe7dcfb0c1a6e029e8f81967b3bb940-101.html#unique-entry-id-101The housing market in general has seen signs of improvement recently.  The National Association of Home Builders reported recently that its confidence index experienced the biggest monthly jump in July in almost a decade.  Builders are expecting to sell more homes and the Commerce Department also reported that home building in June rose to the highest level in almost four years.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/cbe7dcfb0c1a6e029e8f81967b3bb940-101.html#unique-entry-id-101Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-07-18T14:43:33-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/-e16QemV02s/5e453188016f885b288125bf96d281c2-100.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5e453188016f885b288125bf96d281c2-100.html#unique-entry-id-100J.C. Penney (NYSE: JCP) recently made a bold move when it hired former Apple retail chief Ron Johnson last November.  Then, this April, the company also snagged Benjamin Fay, former Apple Senior Director of Retail Real Estate and Development.  The company is trying to re-brand itself and is already making plans to face lift several of its stores throughout the U.S.  J.C. Penney currently operates 1,100 stores.  According to its website, the company is “re-imagining every aspect of its business in order to reclaim its birthright and become America’s favorite store.  The company is transforming the way it does business and remaking the customer experience.”  However, the company may be facing resistance from within its own walls.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5e453188016f885b288125bf96d281c2-100.html#unique-entry-id-100Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkDefense2012-07-18T14:01:18-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/m8GyIUNRWng/aab37e1bd0d5ebebfda3dfdf362fe7d5-99.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/aab37e1bd0d5ebebfda3dfdf362fe7d5-99.html#unique-entry-id-99Recently there has been concern and talk of the defense sector drying up due to the coming November elections.  True to form, defense spending is seen to slow as it gets closer to election time.  Understandably, the sector is nervous about the policies of the new administration.  Government spending and policies are a major part of this sector.  However, even with tensions running high, Honeywell (NYSE: HON) recently lifted its outlook for the year.  The company added 5 cents to its 2012 earnings outlook, putting together a new estimate of $4.40 to $4.55 per share.  The company cited continued investment in new products, technologies, and initiatives as reasons for the change.  In addition to this lifted outlook, Honeywell also posted an 11% higher second quarter profit in its earnings report.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/aab37e1bd0d5ebebfda3dfdf362fe7d5-99.html#unique-entry-id-99Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFood2012-07-18T13:59:51-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/Jx_uyozdzXA/d31d590698281f32746609fd221fa0d2-98.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d31d590698281f32746609fd221fa0d2-98.html#unique-entry-id-98Food may be a necessity.  However, brand names are not.  As budgets become tighter, families start looking for ways to cut costs.  They trade in their brand names for generics as the main focus becomes pricing, which becomes a problem for those companies that rely on their branding for market position.  This is clearly evident when it comes to cereal companies.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/d31d590698281f32746609fd221fa0d2-98.html#unique-entry-id-98Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-07-18T10:33:32-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/E-ZWjDhAd0o/f06f927548d523717d8248867a62b577-97.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/f06f927548d523717d8248867a62b577-97.html#unique-entry-id-97Though the numbers show that American consumers are spending less on furniture than they have previously, that does not go to say that all furniture companies are losing ground.  Similar to general retail and automotive, the high-end and luxury brands are still proving to be desired products.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/f06f927548d523717d8248867a62b577-97.html#unique-entry-id-97Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-07-18T09:56:18-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/jcE_jmlsQ1w/f994565f02418ffa15c4bdb8efca4a49-96.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/f994565f02418ffa15c4bdb8efca4a49-96.html#unique-entry-id-96Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU) has agreed to buy troubled Japanese rival Elpida Memory Inc. through an agreement that will see the chipmaker spend about $2.5 billion to buy the company’s equity and pay some of its creditors.  Micron became Elpida’s financial sponsor in May after the company filed for bankruptcy protection.  Micron will acquire the company’s equity for $750 million and pay a total of $1.75 billion in future annual installment payments.  All pre-petition debt obligations of Elpida will be discharged under the corporate reorganization proceedings.  The agreement also calls for Micron to provide certain financing support for Elpida capital spending and to maintain the company’s operations and employees.  Micron Technology has also agreed to acquire Taiwan-based Powerchip Technology Corporation’s 24% interest of Rexchip Electronics Corporation for around $334 million, meaning that Micron will now control approximately 89% of Rexchip’s outstanding shares.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/f994565f02418ffa15c4bdb8efca4a49-96.html#unique-entry-id-96Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkEnergy2012-07-18T08:58:25-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/WTukuqPyxrA/65f010d9c73ed4955b67ae3d4578fe86-95.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/65f010d9c73ed4955b67ae3d4578fe86-95.html#unique-entry-id-95Linn Energy, LLC (NASDAQ: LINE) recently announced the acquisition of Wyoming’s Jonah Field from BP PLC (NYSE: BP) for $1.025 billion.  The acquisition will add approximately 145 million cubic feet equivalent per day of liquids-rich natural gas production.  The deal will also add immediately to Linn’s distributable cash flow per unit.  Plus, it offers significant drilling inventory.  According to Linn Energy CEO Mark Ellis, “The long-life, low-decline characteristics of the Jonah Field make this asset an excellent fit for us.”  Some of the significant characteristics expected from this acquisition are proved reserves, maintenance capital, and potential for production optimization and cost savings.  The deal is expected to close by July 31.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/65f010d9c73ed4955b67ae3d4578fe86-95.html#unique-entry-id-95Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkEnergy2012-07-18T08:42:11-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/o4LNyExAHmY/mfbnagcali.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnagcali.html#unique-entry-id-94The 290 megawatt Agua Caliente solar project, currently under construction in Yuma, AZ, is now more than two-thirds of the way complete.  It is delivering more than 200 megawatts to the electric grid.  Agua Caliente is the world’s largest operating photovoltaic power plant.  It uses industry-leading solar plant controls and forecasting capabilities to integrate its output with the power grid.  The project is expected to reach completion in 2014.  It is being financed via a loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnagcali.html#unique-entry-id-94Max GSeeking AlphaRussiaPoland2012-07-18T08:32:23-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/h4XPdoJQI94/saruspol.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/saruspol.html#unique-entry-id-93Russia is the world's largest country in terms of territory. Its consumer market consists of over 140 million people. It has vast resources, a highly educated workforce, and technologically advanced research and production capabilities. Still, Russia's economic potential remains largely untapped. Many investors shy of Russia amid growing concerns that the political system in the country is breeding dissent among the population.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/saruspol.html#unique-entry-id-93Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-07-10T16:02:46-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/8JX2eRHawwM/mfbntgt.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbntgt.html#unique-entry-id-92Target (NYSE: TGT) and Neiman Marcus have joined forces to unveil a collection featuring more than 50 limited-edition gifts from 24 designers on December 1 this year, just ahead of the Christmas season.  The products will sell at prices from $7.99 to $499.99, with most costing less than $60.  Neiman Marcus held talks with Target for several years before it approached the company again in December about a potential partnership.  Target has introduced its own designer collections that have helped it increase store and online traffic.  Neiman Marcus has now introduced Target to its designers.  Target will oversee the sourcing and manufacturing for the collection.  The collaboration allows both companies to broaden their customer base and add to its selection of holiday gift items under $100.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbntgt.html#unique-entry-id-92Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkEducation2012-07-09T13:31:36-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/JcRKvBOuG_E/mfbnbpi.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnbpi.html#unique-entry-id-91Higher education has been facing increased scrutiny and regulation from the Obama administration. For-profit institutions such as Bridgepoint Education (NYSE: BPI), Apollo Group’s (NASDAQ: APOL) University of Phoenix, and DeVry (NYSE: DV) have felt the pressure mounting recently. The increased monitoring is aimed at ensuring that students are being properly educated. However, the exposure has also opened up these institutions for criticism of their recruiting process as well as tuition prices and financial aid policies.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnbpi.html#unique-entry-id-91Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-07-09T10:52:45-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/v6UZVdkj_Ac/mfbnyoku.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnyoku.html#unique-entry-id-90JP Morgan recently started coverage on Chinese internet television company Youku (NYSE: YOKU). The firm currently views Youku as overweight and set a price target at $30. Morgan is bullish on a general shift in Chinese ad spending from TV to online video. Upcoming ad rate hikes, inventory expansions, a favorable content amortization schedule, and the achieving of quarterly profitability in 2013 are all viewed as positive catalysts.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnyoku.html#unique-entry-id-90Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTransportation2012-07-09T10:42:00-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/Tngrw8BGgR4/mfbnba.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnba.html#unique-entry-id-89The Farnborough International Air Show is an iconic global aviation event. The event is held every two years and lasts for two weeks. The first week consists of the event’s trade exhibition and then moves on to a public air show. The true value of this event is realized within the week’s trade exhibition. In 2010, $47 billion worth of orders were announced during the event. The 2012 event got off to a promising start. On the first day Boeing (NYSE: BA) announced an order for 75 planes worth $7.2 billion from Air Lease Corp. (NYSE: AL).  The order is for the new, fuel-efficient 737 MAX, 60 of the MAX 8 version and 15 of the MAX 9 version.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnba.html#unique-entry-id-89Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFood2012-07-09T10:30:42-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/IvHs7Iai86k/mfbnpep.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnpep.html#unique-entry-id-88PepsiCo (NYSE: PEP) is home to hundreds of brands across the globe. These brands include Pepsi-Cola, Frito Lay, Gatorade, Tropicana, and Quaker. The company is separated into four major divisions: PepsiCo Americas Beverages, PepsiCo Americas Foods, PepsiCo Europe, and PepsiCo Asia, Middle East, and Africa. Currently, beverages make up the majority of PepsiCo’s revenue and brand recognition. With revenues of $60 billion, PepsiCo owns some of the world’s most popular brands available worldwide through a variety of go-to market systems. Recently, the company has been working toward diversifying even further, aiming to grow its global nutrition portfolio to $30 billion in revenue by 2020.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbnpep.html#unique-entry-id-88Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkEnergy2012-07-03T13:19:43-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/EFUHJSoejyU/mfbn_pbrbal.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_pbrbal.html#unique-entry-id-87Petrobas (NYSE: PBR) recently announced that it will pay a total of $820.5 million to acquire a 50% stake in Pasadena Refining Systems Inc, assuming full control of the company. Petrobas acquired its first 50% stake in Pasadena in 2006 for $360 million. It will be purchasing the remaining stake from Belgium Transcor Astra.  According to the company, “Petrobas executed an agreement to end all existing lawsuits between the companies in the Petrobas System and the Belgian group Transcor Astra, controller of Astra Oil Trading. The lawsuits stemmed from the partnership period between Astra and Petrobas America Inc., a subsidiary of Petrobas, in the Pasadena Refining System, Inc., owner of the Pasadena Refinery in Texas and the Trading Company.”
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_pbrbal.html#unique-entry-id-87Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFinancial Services2012-07-03T13:17:47-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/UZW7v4f11-c/mfbn_axpv.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_axpv.html#unique-entry-id-86A digital wallet, or e-wallet, allows users to make e-commerce transactions quickly and securely. The digital wallet has evolved into a service that provides mobile, online users with a convenient way to store and use online shopping information as well as a way to make and receive payments. With the ever-increasing popularity of smartphones, digital wallets have evolved even further as readily available applications to mobile phone subscribers.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_axpv.html#unique-entry-id-86Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-07-02T14:58:41-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/VjphtyZ-8ys/mfbn_dellit.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_dellit.html#unique-entry-id-85Dell (NASDAQ: DELL) is widely known for its PCs. However, Dell provides a diverse range of products and services for its customers. Dell provides computing hardware and software for consumers, small and large businesses, and the government. Dell prides itself on the built-to-order facet of its computers. However, the manufacturer has had a hard time competing with brands such as Hewlett-Packard (NYSE: HPQ). In addition to personal computers and accessories, HP is also very well known for its enterprise solutions. HP operates in over 170 countries around the world and is the world’s largest IT company.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_dellit.html#unique-entry-id-85Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkArgentina2012-06-23T10:32:46-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/miUP-YH492s/mfbn_ypfarg.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_ypfarg.html#unique-entry-id-84Argentina is well known for both its mining potential and its intervening government. However, Argentina’s government has been working hard to loosen its grip and move away from strict and often crippling regulations. This has opened up the Argentinean market and a number of companies that provide good value for the long-term buyer. Below are three such companies, each operating in a different sector, that share in Argentina’s potential for growth.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_ypfarg.html#unique-entry-id-84Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkChina2012-06-23T10:30:47-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/48itJjndAxQ/mfbn_npd.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_npd.html#unique-entry-id-83There has been a lot of talk lately about the slowing of China’s economy.  Most of this talk comes from China’s lessened manufacturing output.  However, China has more to offer than just manufacturing.  The following five companies all target different sectors of the Chinese market and they all hold zero debt, making them a great investment value.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_npd.html#unique-entry-id-83Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-06-22T10:44:02-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/IqXmBjZv0a4/mfbn_open.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_open.html#unique-entry-id-82It was recently announced that OpenTable (NASDAQ: OPEN) would by integrated with Siri in Apple’s iOS 6.  This integration has the potential to be a strong catalyst for the company. The integration of the two should drive downloads of OpenTable’s mobile application; combined with recent Google+ integration, this could potentially create high competitive barriers for its peers, despite innovative functionality and more aggressive price points from smaller competitors.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_open.html#unique-entry-id-82Max GSeeking AlphaSpain2012-06-21T08:07:16-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/F9V16dHakP0/5fe1bff97e37f6e921fe334133c3cbab-81.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5fe1bff97e37f6e921fe334133c3cbab-81.html#unique-entry-id-81Europe is facing a lot of doom and gloom in the press lately, especially with regards to Spain and Greece. This mentality is pushing stock prices of some fundamentally good companies down, making the current fiasco a buyer's market. Spain especially has a lot of value to offer investors at a steep discount. For all of the country's mounting economic problems, there are still companies within this country that are far from crisis status. They have a good solid foundation, global business models, and are far from nearing the end of their reign.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5fe1bff97e37f6e921fe334133c3cbab-81.html#unique-entry-id-81Max GSeeking AlphaFinancial Services2012-06-20T14:44:36-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/N87l6KsaVos/sa_fxcm.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_fxcm.html#unique-entry-id-80Forex refers to the market in which currencies are traded. The forex market is the largest, most liquid market in the world with an average traded value that exceeds $1.9 trillion per day and includes all of the currencies in the world. The market is open 24 hours a day and currencies are traded worldwide. When forex trading first started popping up, the markets were very risky. It was new and so the rules and regulations were a bit confusing and a bit slim. The high volatility of the currency markets was, and for the most part still is, a factor that most investors have trouble stomaching. The internet is flooded with trading systems promising to make you rich. Everyone claims to be an expert. However, as more and more reputable sources are touting the successes of forex trading, the market is slowly growing.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_fxcm.html#unique-entry-id-80Max GSeeking AlphaTravel2012-06-20T10:26:21-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/FWKvoBLyMuk/sa_away.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_away.html#unique-entry-id-79According to David Huether, senior vice president of economics and research at the U.S. Travel Association, "The U.S. travel industry continues to be one of the prime drivers of our nation's economic recovery, adding 7,000 new American jobs in April, bringing total direct employment to 7,581,000. Travel job growth was driven by the restaurants, lodging and airline sectors, offsetting declines in amusements, gambling and recreation." Huether provided this analysis in response to employment numbers from April 2012. In addition to job growth the travel industry is also seeing a higher number of travelers this year, responding to lower gas prices and higher job stability. The U.S. Travel Association forecasts a national 3% gain in travel this summer season, May through October.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_away.html#unique-entry-id-79Max GSeeking AlphaSpain2012-06-19T14:05:48-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/6eZGGzJ2o-g/sa_spain.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_spain.html#unique-entry-id-78Europe is facing a lot of doom and gloom in the press lately, especially with regard to Spain and Greece. This mentality is pushing stock prices of some fundamentally good companies down, making the current fiasco a buyer's market. Spain especially has a lot of value to offer investors at a steep discount. For all of the country's mounting economic problems, there are still companies within this country that are far from crisis status. They have a good solid foundation, global business models, and are far from nearing the end of their reign. If one is looking for a low-risk investment alternative, there are many ETFs that provide exposure to these Spanish companies.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_spain.html#unique-entry-id-78Max GGatherRetail2012-06-18T17:56:46-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/FOZarzpD7zY/gat_kors.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/gat_kors.html#unique-entry-id-77Michael Kors (NYSE: KORS) is one of the more widely known luxury brands. The company's namesake has garnered attention for both himself and his brand through judging reality tv show Project Runway. Kors' products include clothing, jewelry, and accessories for both men and women. The line also produces shoes and handbags in addition to fragrances. All of their products are equally known and liked. And, being headquartered in Hong Kong, the company has a large Asian fan base. Kors' earnings results, obtained from Daily Finance, were announced earlier this month, beating estimates and expectations. Their profit tripled creating a lot of buzz around the company. The company is more than just buzz, however. It is a good solid company.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/gat_kors.html#unique-entry-id-77Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkChina2012-06-18T16:49:52-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/IL95MPmBl8Y/mfbn_afk.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_afk.html#unique-entry-id-76Investing in Africa is normally thought of as an extreme alternative investment, something reserved for the Chinese.  However, more and more African nations are starting to warm to the idea of capitalism and are growing dissatisfied with China’s dominant presence.  This leaves an opening for the alternative investor not afraid to assume some risk for the potential growth and profits that exist there.  South Africa was the last country to be added to the BRICS and it still carries value as a growth investment.  But there are other countries such as Mozambique and Nigeria that are emerging as potential investments.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_afk.html#unique-entry-id-76Max GSeeking AlphaChina2012-06-18T14:29:45-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/khCYTMSTX4k/sa_wynn.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_wynn.html#unique-entry-id-75Steve Wynn, chairman of Wynn Resorts' (NASDAQ: WYNN) Wynn Macau, told reporters earlier this month of plans to spend $4 billion on a second casino in Macau. A brave plan to announce at a time when Macau's casinos are beginning to feel the China slowdown. In 2008-2009 when China experienced an economic crisis the government responded with a $585 billion stimulus. A portion of that money made its way to the casinos in Macau. The same type of economic stimulus package is not in the cards this time around, though. And Macau's casinos are beginning to feel it. The recent growth rates are minimal compared with the growth rates the casinos have experienced in the past.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_wynn.html#unique-entry-id-75Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFinancial Services2012-06-18T13:00:56-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/QjAJzRquuGI/668fcb0bcbe9e46549e2439a8ef0a0c7-74.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/668fcb0bcbe9e46549e2439a8ef0a0c7-74.html#unique-entry-id-74Stifled by regulation in China, foreign banks are missing out on an epic lending boom.  Five years after China said it fully met World Trade Organization obligations to open its economy to global financial firms, Citigroup (NYSE: C) and HSBC (NYSE: HBC) are among banks still largely shut out of China, the world’s biggest banking market.  Foreign financial companies hold less than 2% of assets in China.  This represents the lowest market share among the major emerging markets.  Meanwhile state-owned firms such as the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China have been transformed from insolvent into profitable firms with the assistance of large government bailouts.  The Chinese market is simply dominated by Chinese lenders.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/668fcb0bcbe9e46549e2439a8ef0a0c7-74.html#unique-entry-id-74Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTransportation2012-06-15T12:27:48-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/gBShY92xTUE/mfbn_luv.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_luv.html#unique-entry-id-73One of the largest costs for airline operators is fuel.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) was able to offset this large cost for years by hedging contracts for their fuel.  This is partly what allowed them to maintain their status as the low-cost operator and forced competitors to lower their prices below operating costs just to compete.  Back before Southwest’s fuel contracts expired, I worked for their competitor American Airlines at a regional airport.  American Airlines lost money on every flight that they sent to the hub because they were forced to price competitively with Southwest.  When Southwest was nearing the end of their fuel contracts they began to make cuts elsewhere, refusing to give up their competitive advantage.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_luv.html#unique-entry-id-73Max GSeeking AlphaFinancial Services2012-06-15T07:29:54-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/XznWfH8ILWs/sa_ever.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_ever.html#unique-entry-id-72EverBank Financial Corporation (NYSE: EVER) has been on my radar for quite some time. The product that originally drew me to this bank was their CDs. Most banks offer CDs, but with the recent recession the rates have continually slid downhill. What makes EverBank so special is that they offer foreign currency CDs. Depending on the currency this allows them to offer much better rates than most U.S.-denominated CDs. For example, their Brazilian real CD currently provides an APY of 4%, while the Indian rupee and South African rand each come in at 3.5%. One would be hard-pressed to find a better rate than those in U.S. Currency CDs. This is what sets EverBank apart from the rest.

Read More……
]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_ever.html#unique-entry-id-72Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkAutomotive2012-06-14T19:29:29-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/8VSxlmYF0bo/mfbn_tsla.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_tsla.html#unique-entry-id-71In 2011 approximately 18,000 electric vehicles were sold in the U.S.  This number is up from just under 500 in 2010.  With fuel costs continually rising and declining, then rising some more, more consumers are seeing the long-term value in electric cars.  And though sales of these vehicles are picking up the numbers are still a far cry from what policy makers in heavily regulated states such as California are requiring.  Honda (NYSE: HMC) sold fewer of its FCX Clarity sedans than it anticipated, leaving it far from reaching the targeted number.  And this is from a company whose lineup ranks among the most fuel-efficient in the U.S.
Read More……]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_tsla.html#unique-entry-id-71Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkOil2012-06-13T16:23:04-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/j-HbwYes_Gk/mfbn_royt.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_royt.html#unique-entry-id-70There have been several great IPOs already in 2012.  Although, some of the more recent ones have had to live under Facebook’s shadow.  As a result, they have gotten lost in the headlines, research, and analysis.  Which is a shame, because there are some great ones out there.  However, for the investor willing to see past Facebook, the situation has created some potetnial buying opportunities.  IPOs such as Pacific Coast Oil Trust (NYSE: ROYT) and Midstates Petroleum Company, Inc. (NYSE: MPO) have simply become lost in the shuffle.  For investors in the know, they provide great value.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_royt.html#unique-entry-id-70Max GSeeking AlphaHong KongSingapore2012-06-13T14:30:10-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/4j16_QL9wOE/mfbn_ewhs.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_ewhs.html#unique-entry-id-69Asia holds one of the greatest growth opportunities in terms of emerging markets. The area is ripe with resources and is one of the few places in the world where underdeveloped countries neighbor developed countries. The time to invest in this region just keeps getting better. China is continually facing pressure from the U.S. Along with other trading partners and developed nations as it pertains to its currency. The Chinese currency has long been a gripe of most investors. It is not pegged to anything and floats rather freely on the moods of China's fiscal policy makers. Instead of giving in and pegging its yuan to a more suitable fixed currency, China is looking to partner with other countries to lessen the currency divide. The two places that China is looking to for help in the globalization its currency are Hong Kong and Singapore.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_ewhs.html#unique-entry-id-69Max GSeeking AlphaETFsEmerging Markets2012-06-13T10:18:08-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/vsAVlcNmn-Y/mfbn_dvye.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_dvye.html#unique-entry-id-68Emerging markets are a favored investment arena. One of the draws is that the players are always changing. ETFs are abundant in this area as the barriers to investing in emerging markets for individual investors are difficult to overcome. This is why ETFs in emerging markets are increasingly popular and growing. Each year there are more and more ETFs providing exposure to emerging markets. Here are four ETFs that are not even one year old.

Read More……]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_dvye.html#unique-entry-id-68Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkEmerging Markets2012-06-11T13:44:50-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/bfaeOxVeBZc/mfbn_vale.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_vale.html#unique-entry-id-67The prospect of continued interest rate reductions in Latin America’s largest economy has buoyed Brazilian stocks recently.  Brazil’s inflation rate is now at its lowest level since September 2010.  Brazil’s Finance Minister Guido Mantega said the current level of inflation provides “a degree of liberty to have more flexible monetary policy,” presumably to include lowering interest rates and expanding credit.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_vale.html#unique-entry-id-67Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-06-05T17:00:54-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/5MdbSDBn0os/mfbn_sne.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_sne.html#unique-entry-id-66Can Sony’s (NYSE: SNE) Playstation3 keep up with Microsoft’s (NASDAQ: MSFT) XBox or Nintendo’s (NASDAQOTH: NTDOY.PK) Wii?  Sony’s share price has recently hit record lows in Japan and is faring no better in U.S. Trading with its price bringing down the 52-week low.  Sony has posted four consecutive annual losses.  Investors are more than concerned about their weak earnings.  One of the major places that they are losing out on profits is with their video game console.
Read More……]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_sne.html#unique-entry-id-66Max GSeeking AlphaJapan2012-05-31T16:04:56-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/QdRk5oyoyRM/sa_ewj.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_ewj.html#unique-entry-id-65Tokyo, Japan, will be competing against Istanbul, Turkey, and Madrid, Spain, to host the 2020 Olympic Games. The winner will be selected by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on September, 20, 2013. These three short-listed candidates have 15 months to lobby for votes and impress the committee. This is Tokyo's second bid to host the Olympic Games and they are already a favorite. Tokyo has put aside 400 billion yen to ensure funding and would build 20 new venues to accommodate the event. Doha, Qatar, and Baku, Azerbaijan, were recently dropped from the list of applicants. The IOC determined that Baku's infrastructure and experience were not sufficiently developed at this point in the process.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_ewj.html#unique-entry-id-65Max GSeeking AlphaBrazil2012-05-31T16:03:36-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/NDjeaHiFPmI/sa_bvsp.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_bvsp.html#unique-entry-id-64Brazilian stocks took a tumble this past Thursday and equities pushed toward their third consecutive loss. The Ibovespa Index (BVSP) fell 1.8%, bringing it to a loss of 14% this month. It is not at its lowest level since October. In addition, Vale S.A. (NYSE: VALE), Petrobas (NYSE: PBR), and Banco Santander Brasil S.A. (NYSE: BSBR) experienced declines. Vale fell by 1.1%, Petrobas fell by 2.2%, and Banco Santander fell by 7%. This was Banco Santander's first loss in five sessions. In addition to stocks declining, the Real pared losses against the U.S. dollar.

Read More……]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_bvsp.html#unique-entry-id-64Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFinancial Services2012-05-30T14:08:07-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/BAckQKfxCY4/mfbn_intc.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_intc.html#unique-entry-id-63Online securities firm SecureKey Technologies announced Friday that it has received an investment of $30 million into the company.  This investment came from a group led by Intel's (NASDAQ: INTC) investment unit.  The group included Mastercard (NYSE: MA), Visa, (NYSE: V), and Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS).  SecureKey Technologies is a privately-owned company.  It addresses online security issues for banks, governments, and businesses around the world.  Their technology is unique in that it uses cryptographic authentication to leverage existing investments in smartcard and NFC technologies, making SecureKey's technology an easily integratable solution.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_intc.html#unique-entry-id-63Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-05-30T09:35:05-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/EfWn9MZjoG8/mfbn_nile.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_nile.html#unique-entry-id-62Global economic crisis might keep Wall Street bankers and Europe's elite from spending money on high dollar jewelry for not, but in the long-term the sparkly jewels will call their names again.  Shares of both Tiffany & Co. (NYSE: TIF) and Signet Jewelers Limited (NYSE: SIG), which owns Kay Jewelers and Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, declined just last week.  Both jewelers provided disappointing profit forecasts for the coming months.  Tiffany & Co. also noted a weaker first quarter profit, noting a loss of sales at its New York location.  There are several factors that are currently weighing heavily on the jewelers causing these disappointing forecasts.  Europe's debt crisis is one of them.  Both companies do significant business in Europe.  They also do significant business in China, which is showing signs of a slowing economy.  The U.S. is not faring much better for their business.  Wary shoppers, waning consumer appetites, and decreased spending by financial sector employees continues to eat away at jewelers' profits.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_nile.html#unique-entry-id-62Max GSeeking AlphaRetail2012-05-28T05:22:00-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/DdEHcPVz2Ek/sa_ges.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_ges.html#unique-entry-id-61On Tuesday Guess (NYSE: GES) slumped to nearly a three-year low. The designer/retailer was valued at almost 3.5 times earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. That is the lowest of any apparel retailer in the U.S. and less than half of the median. This is Guess' first consecutive drop in profit in eight years. The global economic slump has done little to help in this area. Also, stiff competition is eroding the profit margins. Guess has sank 41% in the past year as the eurozone crisis undercut consumer demand and lower-priced brands pushed its operating margins to a six year low. This does not bode well for the company.

Read More…...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_ges.html#unique-entry-id-61Max GSeeking AlphaRetail2012-05-28T05:20:37-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/NaAyNPM0_ZI/sa_big.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_big.html#unique-entry-id-60Big Lots (BIG) posted some disturbing numbers for Q1 2012 when it reported earlier this week. The closeout retailer posted a net income decline of 22% on 5.5% higher sales. Earnings per share and adjusted earnings from continuing operations were both down. For Q2 2012, Big Lots expects to earn a mere 37 cents to 42 cents per share from continuing operations. Same-store sales are expected to range from slightly positive to slightly negative. This is a bit disconcerting, given that consumer spending is up and other retailers fared much better in the first quarter of this year.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_big.html#unique-entry-id-60Max GSeeking AlphaFinancial Services2012-05-28T05:18:53-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/Ac4G75oTbM0/sa_met.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_met.html#unique-entry-id-59MetLife (NYSE: MET) is planning, among other things, to increase sales in emerging markets. The New York-based insurer is looking to increase sales in emerging markets to approximately 20%. It has stated that the opportunity to earn higher returns is greater in emerging markets. It expects this plan to leverage its global footprint and capitalize on trends and opportunities in key markets. This is a great plan for MetLife. It wishes to continue this growth pattern until 2015, increasing sales in emerging markets 20% each year. That is a sensible plan. Not too fast, but not slow enough to miss out on the opportunities either.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_met.html#unique-entry-id-59Max GSeeking AlphaHospitality2012-05-25T08:11:50-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/iYJW9qwkkf8/mfbn_bx.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bx.html#unique-entry-id-58French hotel company Accor announced Tuesday that it has plans to sell its low-cost chain Motel 6 to Blackstone Group (BX) for $1.9 billion. This sale is an effort for Accor to cut debt and shift their efforts away from the U.S. toward high-growth emerging markets. They plan to use a portion of the proceeds from the sale to cut the company's debt by approximately EUR330 million. Other proceeds will be used to expand into growing markets such as the Asia-Pacific region and Latin America. Accor is also seeking to shift to a franchise model similar to that of competitor InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). They expect this move to result in fewer revenue swings by partnering with the owners of the hotels as opposed to owning them directly.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bx.html#unique-entry-id-58Max GSeeking AlphaRetail2012-05-25T08:10:32-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/AlksF4VF7po/mfbn_bby.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bby.html#unique-entry-id-57Best Buy (BBY) posted its Q1 2012 financial figures Tuesday morning. Its Q1 2012 profit fell to $158 million from $212 million in the same quarter the year prior. However, revenue saw a slight increase to $11.61 billion from $11.37 billion in the same quarter the prior year. This could be a double-edged sword for the company. Profit slipped, but revenue topped estimates. One could interpret this to mean several things.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bby.html#unique-entry-id-57Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-05-25T08:08:09-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/cHBKA4-bpJU/mfbn_bud.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bud.html#unique-entry-id-56I remember when I first stumbled across The Vice Fund (VICEX).  My first reaction was that there must be some very cynical people in this world.  My second reaction was that they are probably right.  Several socially responsible investing funds began popping up in response to this fund.  They were all outperformed by bad habits.  Giving up any bad habit such as drinking or smoking takes quite an emotional toll on a person.  When they have no job, their home is getting foreclosed on, and their car repossessed, the success rate for quitting smoking at the same time is pretty much zero.  The stress of quitting on top of financial worries does not mesh well.  Any good psychiatrist would agree with that.  So The Vice Fund, though cynical, had a point.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bud.html#unique-entry-id-56Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-05-24T14:50:38-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/869qmVzQluw/mfbn_kkd.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_kkd.html#unique-entry-id-55Krispy Kreme's (NYSE: KKD) Q1 2012 earnings beat out Wall Street expectations, proving that despite how much weight loss or obesity epidemic media is thrown at us, the U.S. still has a sweet tooth.  In addition to surpassing analysts' earnings per share Krispy Kreme also reported a revenue increase of 3.7% from Q1 2011.  The company reported higher consumer traffic and price increases as some of the major contributors to these better-than-expected numbers.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_kkd.html#unique-entry-id-55Max GSeeking AlphaMinerals2012-05-24T13:59:47-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/rOZizCo0nL0/sa_au.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_au.html#unique-entry-id-54AngloGold Ashanti (AU) has gained some attention lately as one of John Paulson's top picks. He notes that gold stocks have badly trailed metal prices and AngloGold Ashanti is at its lowest valuation in 10 years. Paulson is a big name in American hedge funds and has a multitude of followers in the investing world. His picks are widely watched and accepted.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_au.html#unique-entry-id-54Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFinancial Services2012-05-24T13:58:34-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/xD_Ja0Gyz_U/sa_bcs.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_bcs.html#unique-entry-id-53Well, it appears that a couple of long-time buds will be going their separate ways. Barclays PLC (BCS) announced Monday that it will be selling its entire stake in BlackRock, Inc (BLK). The market value of Barclays investment in BlackRock, based on the closing price on May 18 of $171.91, was $6.1 billion. Barclays current holdings represent a 19.6% ownership interest in BlackRock. Barclays, Morgan Stanley, and Bank of America will jointly oversee the sale of shares. This is a mammoth deal between two large financial institutions. Pricing terms for this transaction were expected to be determined on May 23.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_bcs.html#unique-entry-id-53Max GSeeking AlphaRecreation2012-05-24T13:56:52-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/q4CrA0Fsu2k/sa_amc.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_amc.html#unique-entry-id-52The movie theater business has been around for more than 100 years and continues to increase in popularity and technological innovation. Today's theaters offer a variety of options catering to different tastes. Most theaters today also have additional revenue sources, such as concessions, arcade style video games, or a full dining experience while you enjoy the movie of your choice.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_amc.html#unique-entry-id-52Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-05-24T13:54:43-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/c8AiuSsqwYs/mfbn_fb.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_fb.html#unique-entry-id-51Facebook's (NASDAQ: FB) IPO has not quite been the success story its loyal followers must have imagined.  This social media empire has fallen nearly 10% since its inception, remaining below its initial IPO price.  This was a much anticipated IPO, and it has fizzled out before it even gained any traction.  Demand was so weak, in fact, that the IPO's underwriters had to step in and support the shares.  More than 35 million shares of this global network have been traded.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_fb.html#unique-entry-id-51Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRecreation2012-05-24T13:51:50-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/nwDkctFYklE/mfbn_swhc.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_swhc.html#unique-entry-id-50Smith & Wesson (NASDAQ: SWHC) announced on Monday that its preliminary fourth quarter sales of $129 million exceeded its own estimate of $113-$118 million.  Also, Smith & Wesson's firearm backlog order increased to $439 million from $252 million.  Smith & Wesson has also reported steady sales growth in the prior three quarters.  The company stated that these figures were due to continued strength across its product line, namely its M&P brand weapons and the new concealable Shield 9mm.  Shares of the gun maker's stock spiked 6% Monday after these figures were released.  Prior to these new figures shares had fallen a sharp 28% this month.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_swhc.html#unique-entry-id-50Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTelecommunications2012-05-23T12:06:58-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/C-yFW9zm1gA/mfbn_twc.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_twc.html#unique-entry-id-49Several major U.S. cable companies have agreed to work together to enable each other's high-speed internet customers to access metro wireless hotspots outside of their home markets.  Some of the larger companies involved include Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA), Time Warner Cable (NYSE: TWC), and Cablevision (NYSE: CVC).  They created a new network name "CableWiFi" to allow subscribers to access more than 50,000 WiFi hotspots.  This is the largest WiFi sharing effort among companies to date and should all fall into place over the next few months.
Read More….]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_twc.html#unique-entry-id-49Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-05-23T12:04:08-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/w2ue09Al9Jk/mfbn_hd.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_hd.html#unique-entry-id-48The first day of summer is only about a month away.  The kids will be out of school, the sun will be shining, trips will be taken, and some will be faced with a long list of home improvement tasks that has been carefully and thoughtfully compiled through the winter.  Landscaping, carpentry, and overall upkeep will make some of us look forward to fall.  Home improvement is a pretty hefty industry in the U.S. Lowe's (NYSE: LOW) and Home Depot (NYSE: HD) are two of the largest home improvement stores in the nation.  They are gearing up for a big season.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_hd.html#unique-entry-id-48Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-05-23T09:56:11-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/0JvBjC-PO1U/mfbn_yhoo.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_yhoo.html#unique-entry-id-47Yahoo! (NASDAQ: YHOO) used to do so well with advertising.  Their television commercials and billboards were just about shoved down our throats, reminding us that this search engine exists.  Recently, however, they seem to have been lost in the shuffle.  Their commercials are not so prevalent (not that anyone really watches commercials anyway, thanks to DVRs and TiVO).  Their billboards are very scarce as well.  One of the most successful forms of advertising that currently exists is product placement.  In that arena, Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) seems to prevail.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_yhoo.html#unique-entry-id-47Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkHospitality2012-05-22T14:56:10-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/PLMCin6MXbk/mfbn_ihg.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_ihg.html#unique-entry-id-46The lodging industry is bouncing back and seeking more workers.  Hotels and motels are getting busier as Americans feel a little more secure economically and are taking vacations.  The Federal Reserve has confirmed this shift in travel in its most recent survey of current economic conditions. Additionally, business travel has rebounded enough to restore hotel occupancy levels to 63.6%, close to the historic average. This is good news for the hospitality industry.  It will weight especially well on some of America's favorite hotel chains.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_ihg.html#unique-entry-id-46Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-05-22T14:06:59-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/bvzIUlual3k/mfbn_si.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_si.html#unique-entry-id-45Siemens (NYSE: SI) just got in its first wind-turbine order from Chile.  The order encompasses delivery, installation, and commissioning of 50 wind turbines.  Each turbine will have a capacity of 2.3 megawatts, giving the order a total capacity of 115 megawatts.  The order includes a five-year service and maintenance contract.  The order is for the El-Aryan wind project, which is slated to become the largest wind farm in Chile and will provide power for up to 200,000 households.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_si.html#unique-entry-id-45Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkFinancial Services2012-05-22T13:42:49-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/x9j_CofLZXQ/mfbn_bcs.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bcs.html#unique-entry-id-44Several bank shares were on the rise in London, driving positive sentiments heading into the U.S. market opening on Tuesday.  Lloyds Banking Group (NYSE: LYG), Barclays (NYSE: BCS), and The Royal Bank of Scotland (NYSE: RBS) were all participants in these gains.  Shares of both Lloyds and Barclays increased by 1%.  Shares of RBS increased by 2.2%.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bcs.html#unique-entry-id-44Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTransportation2012-05-22T13:39:26-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/YY3EpK6fxqs/mfbn_erj.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_erj.html#unique-entry-id-43Embraer (NYSE: ERJ) is the world's top manufacturer of midsize aircraft.  Production of regional jets has been strained lately by high fuel costs and slow global recovery, but eventual uptick could lead to a rally point for the company and its shares.  ADR's of Embraer have increased 29% already this year.  Embraer is the world's third largest commercial aircraft maker, trailing behind Boeing (NYSE: BA) and EADS' Airbus.  But the fact that it is trailing simply means that it has more room to expand and grow. Embraer appears to be seizing the opportunities that lay ahead.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_erj.html#unique-entry-id-43Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkEmerging Markets2012-05-22T07:15:21-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/TGa7sUZItss/mfbn_kft.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_kft.html#unique-entry-id-42Have you ever heard had a craving for green tea, banana and dulce de leche, or mango and orange Oreo cookies?  Well, Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) can satisfy that craving.  If you are in China you can find the green tea oreos.  Banana and dulce de leche can be found in Argentina.  Whatever the local taste buds, Kraft has developed an Oreo to suit.  Emerging markets will account for about half of Oreo sales this year.  Over the past five years emerging markets including Asia and Latin America have been the major drivers of the brand's growth.  Thanks to Kraft's overseas push, overall Oreo sales grew nearly 25 percent in 2011.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_kft.html#unique-entry-id-42Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTelecommunications2012-05-14T06:44:18-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/EJ3Y8P3E2nk/mfbn_chl.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_chl.html#unique-entry-id-41International telecommunications is a massive growth industry.  The use of mobile phones and data services is expanding even ahead of other basic utilities such as electricity.  Yet still countries exist wherein owning a mobile phone is not the norm.  There are a few international telecommunications providers that are striving to grow their business and reach a wider audience.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_chl.html#unique-entry-id-41Max GSeeking AlphaJapan2012-05-09T07:18:56-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/6BlbpBdwssU/sa_sne.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_sne.html#unique-entry-id-40Japan's market took a nose dive following last year's earthquake and nuclear disaster. But Japanese stocks may already be poised for a comeback. Consumer spending is already improving and corporate earnings are expected to rise 69% this year. Currently, Japan's equities are the most expensive among the world's 60 biggest markets. The Nikkei 225 is up 35% since March 2009. Policy makers in Japan have committed to spend 20 trillion yen to rebuild and spur economic growth. Also, the Bank of Japan pledged in April to continue adding monetary stimulus.

Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_sne.html#unique-entry-id-40Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkETFs2012-05-07T15:54:06-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/ZUrhfwHdm-E/mfbn_eemv.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_eemv.html#unique-entry-id-39One of the newest things on the market is low-volatility ETFs.  They are nice for squeamish investors looking to get in on emerging markets or in Europe's current economic crisis.  Emerging markets have long been thought to be exclusive to the investor with a strong appetite for risk.  With the current economic crisis in Europe, the same could be said for them as well.  The volatility in the global markets can make one wary of opening themselves up to too much risk.  This can lead to some highly limited, low diversification portfolios.  Low-volatility ETFs provide a solution to that problem.  There are already several out there that are performing fairly well.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_eemv.html#unique-entry-id-39Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-05-05T09:37:07-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/0GbbFqgYwmI/mfbn_pvh.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_pvh.html#unique-entry-id-38PVH Corp. (NYSE: PVH) licenses, merchandises, distributes, and sells apparel lines such as Calvin Klein, Izod, Van Heusen, Chaps, Kenneth Cole, and Tommy Hilfiger.  PVH is the largest shirt company in the world and sells its products through 17,000 retail venues, including department stores and 1,000 stores of its own.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_pvh.html#unique-entry-id-38Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkSpain2012-05-04T10:54:14-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/9icKPmWlkDQ/mfbn_bbva.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bbva.html#unique-entry-id-37Despite its current economic position the Spanish market offers potential in long-term value.  Its standing in the international community has taken some blows recently, but Spain is adhering to strict austerity measures in an effort to reign in its budget deficit.  Spain's austerity measures are aimed at corporations as opposed to consumers, which is encouraging to many economists.
Read More….]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bbva.html#unique-entry-id-37Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkSaudi Arabia2012-05-04T07:56:45-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/kaS4j5EUSGU/mfbn_msci.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_msci.html#unique-entry-id-36Saudi Arabia is known for being the largest, most liquid, and least accessible market in the Arab world.  Monday Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority (CMA) signed an agreement that would allow index compiler MSCI Inc (NYSE: MSCI) to use stock market data to create and issue indexes on the kingdom's equity markets.  This agreement will go a long way toward Saudi Arabia attaining MSCI Frontier or Emerging Market status.  It will also open the kingdom up to global trade.  Currently there is a widespread dominance of local investors.  The MSCI Saudi Arabia Domestic Indices, and related regional indices, will be available come June 2012.  The reintroduced Saudi Arabia Domestic Indices will include large cap, mid cap, and small cap indices aimed at institutional investors who aren't constrained by foreign ownership requirements.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_msci.html#unique-entry-id-36Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTransportation2012-05-04T07:36:00-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/dfY_P6ZuHRY/mfbn_save.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_save.html#unique-entry-id-35Airlines have long been consider a dismal investment opportunity by most investors.  High regulations increase already high costs of operation, which in turn reduces any profit there might have been.  Profit is scarce in this industry.  This makes industry-wide competition pretty fierce.  This competition is more often a disservice to the airlines, as it shrinks profits even further.  I worked for a regional airline once.  Due to competition we did not make a single dime on flights into our hub.  We actually lost money on every flight.  But we had to keep ourselves in the competition, hoping that the connecting flights they took from the hub would make up for the initial loss.  Maybe some airlines are beginning to figure out how to make a profit.
Read More……]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_save.html#unique-entry-id-35Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-05-03T17:50:33-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/56ebvYeCN38/mfbn_bks.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bks.html#unique-entry-id-34Barnes & Noble (NYSE: BKS) is evolving to compete with its digital counterparts.  It developed the nook, its digital e-reader, to compete with the likes of the iPad and Amazon's Kindle.  Now B&N is entering a partnership with software giant Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT).  The companies will form a subsidiary, 84% of which is to be held by B&N.  One of their first plans for the subsidiary will be a nook application for the Windows 8 operating system.  Also, both companies stated that any patent litigation between them had been settled.  This new partnership is a great value for Barnes and Noble shareholders.  Especially, since the share price has pretty much doubled since the news of this partnership.  It seems like there are more good things to come for Barnes and Noble.
Read More…...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_bks.html#unique-entry-id-34Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTech2012-04-30T13:26:47-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/yr7MK1tTz4U/mfbn_wdc.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_wdc.html#unique-entry-id-33Cloud computing has become a revolution, or revelation to some, in the way we think about purchasing technology.  No longer do you need the larger hard drives.  What is smaller than a flash drive?  Air.  Flash drives are truly going the way of the floppy disk. 
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_wdc.html#unique-entry-id-33Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkREIT2012-04-30T08:54:38-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/xPWxVmMhPgw/mfbn_spg.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_spg.html#unique-entry-id-32Simon Property Group (NYSE: SPG) is the largest real estate company in the world.  You know those shopping malls where your teenage kids hang out and where your wife spends all of your money?  Chances are, SPG owns it.  They own or have interest in 337 retail real estate properties in North America and Asia.  They also have a 29% stake in 270 shopping centers across Europe through publicly traded French REIT Klepierre.  Klepierre recently posted a 3.1% rise in rental income for Q1 2012.  Their shopping centers in Northern Europe offset the 4.4% rental income loss in Spain.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_spg.html#unique-entry-id-32Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkRetail2012-04-27T18:42:47-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/PsMCJTsMA5g/mfbn_nke.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_nke.html#unique-entry-id-31Nike (NYSE: NKE) is one of the world's largest manufacturers of athletic apparel.  They are also one of the most popular.  However, Nike is so much more than a manufacturer.  They are engaged in design, development, and marketing.  What is great about this company is that it evolves.  They will always be old school with the Air Jordan's and hi-top sneakers,  but they have realized that the morning runner or the late-night gym-goer are just as important as the team athletes.  That is the new school, catering to the individual athlete.  But they have been able to do so without losing their old customer base. Their newly acquired contract with the NFL doesn't seem to hurt things, either.
Read More…...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_nke.html#unique-entry-id-31Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkTrusts2012-04-27T18:41:04-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/72LZaceoheY/mfbn_gni.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_gni.html#unique-entry-id-30Being debt free is something that the long-term thinking, financially savvy among us strive for.  So why not look for that in an investment? Also, most people do not look to investing as a source of income.  But that is still no reason to discount a high dividend yield.  Dividend reinvestment is a great thing, especially if you are looking to build a long-term portfolio that you can grow old on.  Listed here are a few trusts that share these qualities and would make a nice, calm addition to a retirement portfolio.
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_gni.html#unique-entry-id-30Max GMotley Fool Blog NetworkDefense2012-04-27T18:39:14-05:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/qCzYjMxC7wM/mfbn_noc.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_noc.html#unique-entry-id-29Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) raised their profit forecast for 2012.  Are they really that confident?  The newfound confidence came after a better than expected first quarter.  In their defense, their first quarter income did increase by a whopping 2%, mostly aided by sales in Electronics.  Net income from continuing operations totaled $506 million, compared with $496 million the year prior.  Also, sales declined 8%.  Does that truly add up to a case for raising their outlook for the entire year?
Read More…..]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/mfbn_noc.html#unique-entry-id-29Max GSeeking AlphaSlovenia2012-01-19T09:25:27-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/jVJGihu27q0/bc584bc3c41f05fc0154ac6c070d42bc-26.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/bc584bc3c41f05fc0154ac6c070d42bc-26.html#unique-entry-id-26On January 12, 2012, Standard and Poor’s downgraded the credit rating of nine eurozone nations. Slovenia was one of them. S&P downgraded the Eastern European nation to A+. Slovenia adopted the euro in 2007. The nation’s public debt has increased from 38.8% of GDP in 2010 to an expected 50.1% of GDP in 2012. At the same time, the public deficit as it pertains to GDP has remained constant.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/bc584bc3c41f05fc0154ac6c070d42bc-26.html#unique-entry-id-26Max GSeeking AlphaTurkey2012-01-19T09:23:35-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/CjWu6CR1P8Y/799a8acbb6de0b2ef724d26f326abbf7-25.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/799a8acbb6de0b2ef724d26f326abbf7-25.html#unique-entry-id-25Europe might be feeling a bit slighted by Turkey in reference to their proposed Nabucco pipeline that will transport natural gas from Asia into Europe. The benefits and viability of Nabucco for the countries involved have been difficult to pinpoint. Turkey has shown support for the pipeline in the past. Recently, however, Turkey’s energy minister, Taner Yildiz, signed an agreement with Azerbaijan to construct an estimated $5 billion Trans-Anatolian natural gas pipeline.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/799a8acbb6de0b2ef724d26f326abbf7-25.html#unique-entry-id-25Max GGuru FocusRussia2012-01-19T09:21:18-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/gz6NDWCmxRo/91c2b77a9e4e6c59db6bc9797769b2b7-24.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/91c2b77a9e4e6c59db6bc9797769b2b7-24.html#unique-entry-id-24The largest mall in St. Petersburg, Russia, is the newly opened Galeria. The mall opened in November 2010 and houses 290 stores in 1 million square feet. The mall includes a large selection of Western brands including Adidas (ADDYY), Bebe (BEBE), and the Gap (GPS). The five-story mall cost over $380 million to build according to some sources and a reported $500 million by other Russian sources. The Galeria includes a multi-screen movie theater that includes IMAX, a 27-lane bowling alley, and enough parking for 1,200 vehicles. The top floor boasts a massive arcade.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/91c2b77a9e4e6c59db6bc9797769b2b7-24.html#unique-entry-id-24Max GGuru FocusMiddle East2012-01-09T13:19:13-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/dvVSsi1qOmc/01c5ada40149c4cfbc5ef03d36280548-23.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/01c5ada40149c4cfbc5ef03d36280548-23.html#unique-entry-id-23Standard & Poor’s has launched the S&P AFE 40 index. This index is designed to measure the performance of 40 leading companies from the Gulf region. The S&P AFE 40 is comprised of the 40 largest stocks listed on AFE member exchanges. These stocks are subject to certain restrictions such as the limitation of ten stocks per country. The index uses a capped market capitalization weighted index scheme. The S&P Index partnered with the Arab Federation of Exchanges (AFE) to create the index. It includes companies from Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and the United Arab Emirates.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/01c5ada40149c4cfbc5ef03d36280548-23.html#unique-entry-id-23Max GGuru FocusSaudi Arabia2012-01-09T13:17:24-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/aTsPfj5iNhw/7e678dae35bc892231c297cb42430df0-22.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/7e678dae35bc892231c297cb42430df0-22.html#unique-entry-id-22Saudi Arabia could be hit or miss for emerging market investors. The country’s main strengths can easily be converted into weaknesses. Gaining direct exposure to the potential is a challenge for individual investors. Most investment opportunities come in the form of foreign direct investment. There is currently no ETF available with direct exposure to Saudi Arabia. There are the standard Middle Eastern ETFs such as the WisdomTree Middle East Dividend (GULF) and the Market Vectors Gulf States Index (MES), but even these provide very little exposure to the kingdom. A pegged ETF would go a long way toward providing leverage and exposure to the region for individual investors.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/7e678dae35bc892231c297cb42430df0-22.html#unique-entry-id-22Max GSeeking AlphaEmerging Markets2012-01-09T13:13:14-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/k64FPm1Fhsc/edcb83708d085d4f30e23c02c07869b2-21.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/edcb83708d085d4f30e23c02c07869b2-21.html#unique-entry-id-21Global manufacturing optimism turned into gains for emerging market economies this past week. From this perspective it would seem that the global economy is weathering the eurozone crisis without too much wear and tear. Expectations are so low for the markets coming into 2012 that any good or not-so-bad news is having an immediate positive impact.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/edcb83708d085d4f30e23c02c07869b2-21.html#unique-entry-id-21Max GSeeking AlphaChinaJapan2012-01-09T11:07:29-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/_V3puQWGER4/a48c898f70dae7f89e7f4ad77d2e6fb7-20.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/a48c898f70dae7f89e7f4ad77d2e6fb7-20.html#unique-entry-id-20China and Japan reached an agreement on what is being referred to as a currency pact in December. As part of the agreement Japan will hold Chinese bonds as part of its foreign exchange reserves. Tokyo will purchase about $500 million worth of Chinese government bonds this year. Japan will likely add yuan slowly to its forex reserve, building its yuan holdings to around $10 billion over the next five years. The small size of the Chinese bond market will limit the pace of accumulation. Currently the US dollar makes up 80% - 90% of Japan’s forex holdings. By adding yuan-denominated bonds to its reserve holdings Japan will join the ranks of Nigeria, Malaysia, Thailand, and Chile.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/a48c898f70dae7f89e7f4ad77d2e6fb7-20.html#unique-entry-id-20Max GSeeking AlphaTurkey2012-01-04T21:57:55-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/kVP3KMi7pNE/99c12534e486bf0fdcf8163fa311a933-17.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/99c12534e486bf0fdcf8163fa311a933-17.html#unique-entry-id-17Turkey hit export growth records for 2011. The country now has one of the highest growth rates in the world. Exports increased a record 18.2 percent reaching $134.6 billion. Still, the government expects output to be half next year as the eurozone crisis continues to take hold. Turkey is currently the world’s 17th largest economy. Still, with record trade and an ever-growing economy, Turkey’s lira is poised for investment. There is no ETF directly tied to Turkey’s currency. However, the WisdomTree Dreyfus Emerging Currency ETF (CEW) does provide exposure to the lira. The iShares MSCI Turkey Invest Market Index ETF (TUR) provides direct exposure to Turkey mainly through financial services holdings.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/99c12534e486bf0fdcf8163fa311a933-17.html#unique-entry-id-17Max GSeeking AlphaBrazil2012-01-04T21:55:37-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/g4KtHvtYfwI/50ee326f58dc06106e5d493acb0a8cfb-16.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/50ee326f58dc06106e5d493acb0a8cfb-16.html#unique-entry-id-16Brazil has been spending a lot of money on infrastructure in recent years. It has also been busy cleaning up the slums in Rio de Janeiro. Police and military personnel have been moving in to take control while the cartels have been slipping away in the middle of the night. They are also working diligently to bring electricity and sewer systems into these neighborhoods, elevating the living situation for the hundreds of thousands that call the favelas home. Brazil is also rich in land, resources, and labor. It has a great advantage in trade as well.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/50ee326f58dc06106e5d493acb0a8cfb-16.html#unique-entry-id-16Max GSeeking AlphaArgentina2012-01-04T21:54:15-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/O0fgp7blq5U/077391afa963fdbc73f614a166e38141-15.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/077391afa963fdbc73f614a166e38141-15.html#unique-entry-id-15Argentina’s Rosario Stock Exchange and Rosario Futures Exchange (ROFEX) are planning a merger that would boost competition with the Buenos Aires Stock Exchange in equity derivatives products. The combined exchanges would have the power to produce indices of its own. ROFEX has been looking for ways to increase its international visibility and plans to introduce a multi-asset class trading platform in the first quarter of 2012.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/077391afa963fdbc73f614a166e38141-15.html#unique-entry-id-15Max GSeeking AlphaQatar2012-01-04T21:51:07-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/2R6Ee1TgVps/f720affc04b6693635f3090390def5f0-14.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/f720affc04b6693635f3090390def5f0-14.html#unique-entry-id-14According to the International Monetary Fund, Qatar’s economic growth will slow next year as well as face an increased risk of lower oil and gas pricing. All this comes as a result of weaker global demand. Still, most agree the outlook is positive for this Middle Eastern nation rich in resources and land. Qatar is the world’s top liquified natural gas exporting economy, and as such, expanded at double-digit rates in 2011. Qatar also has plans to spend quite a bit on infrastructure in preparation for the 2022 World Cup. Still, the country cannot overlook external risks that reach as far as the euro zone crisis -- specifically, lower oil and gas prices and increased geopolitical tensions.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/f720affc04b6693635f3090390def5f0-14.html#unique-entry-id-14Max GSeeking AlphaTurkey2012-01-04T21:49:32-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/40XtQ7yaNao/ff71e0089bca8d734957bfb4dfb4f909-13.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/ff71e0089bca8d734957bfb4dfb4f909-13.html#unique-entry-id-13Since 1998, the Istanbul Stock Exchange has spent $1 billion building 400 schools across Turkey. Now the Turkish administration is moving to assert greater regulatory control over the exchange. The government passed a decree last month aiming to consolidate the Istanbul Stock Exchange with TurkDex, the country’s derivatives exchange.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/ff71e0089bca8d734957bfb4dfb4f909-13.html#unique-entry-id-13Max GSeeking AlphaCroatiaSerbiaEastern Europe2012-01-04T21:47:51-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/xfpz2yyrlDk/9c77ef6b84c04372bd49be9bb4543c85-12.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/9c77ef6b84c04372bd49be9bb4543c85-12.html#unique-entry-id-12Croatia is going through the motions to become the 28th member of the European Union. Many see this as a step in the right direction for Croatia’s political and economic future. However, with the euro zone crisis looming, it might be some time before the nation sees a payoff. The EU cannot solve a country’s problems. Just the process of applying for EU membership has brought about important changes for Croatia, but there is more work to be done. EU membership would not only provide economic benefits, but also stability for Croatia. Croatia will officially join the European Union in July 2013. EU membership could equal greater foreign investment and export growth. That might not be soon enough. The Balkan state was hit hard by the global financial crisis and analysts expect it to slip back into recession in 2012. Croatia’s unemployment rate is currently one of the highest in Europe at around 17.4%.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/9c77ef6b84c04372bd49be9bb4543c85-12.html#unique-entry-id-12Max GSeeking AlphaThailand2012-01-03T14:29:42-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/kHmtcTsteMs/7c57f2bcef5d40b648d4bf7e09b33101-9.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/7c57f2bcef5d40b648d4bf7e09b33101-9.html#unique-entry-id-9Thailand is currently experiencing the socioeconomic problem of a missing middle class. There is a great divide between the country’s highest earning and lowest earning groups. The country’s highest earning group is benefiting from increased connectivity through technology. Some members of the middle class have just emerged from poverty and are earning the majority of their income through labor. The lowest bracket in this group is feeling the most pressure about their future. In Thailand, the richest 20% make almost 60% of the income. The poorest 20% made only 4% of the income. This disparity has Thailand ranked last place amongst its neighbors. The disparity between the rich and the poor is similar to what was seen in Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Slowly, Russia’s middle class is gaining in members. Economic policy reform has been painstakingly slow in Russia, but progress has been made. Analysts feel that policy reform in Thailand should focus largely on limiting monopolies and deterring corruption.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/7c57f2bcef5d40b648d4bf7e09b33101-9.html#unique-entry-id-9Max GSeeking AlphaIndia2011-12-23T08:58:40-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/c-nrGMSKgoU/b4e9a9cda124504525418028cf0508a9-8.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b4e9a9cda124504525418028cf0508a9-8.html#unique-entry-id-8The devaluation of the rupee has been all over the international news this past week. It is of great concern to the global economy. The decline in the Rupee is a major source of distress for India. The only BRIC country in 2010 to see a decline in foreign direct investment, India is facing desperate times. The rupee is the worst performing currency in Asia, having fallen more than 17% this year against the dollar. The decline is creating financial stress for Indian companies that have traded in dollars. The rupee is increasingly vulnerable.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/b4e9a9cda124504525418028cf0508a9-8.html#unique-entry-id-8Max GSeeking AlphaArgentina2011-12-20T08:56:53-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/rF1Kx6pJtR4/a56a61210981acf8bcd6c657d045a0ff-7.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/a56a61210981acf8bcd6c657d045a0ff-7.html#unique-entry-id-7Argentina energy company YPF’s (YPF) potential 1 billion barrel discovery could lead Argentina in to a shale oil and gas boom similar to the one that transformed the U.S. energy industry. The reserves adjacent to a Patagonian field were over six times larger than originally anticipated. The former state monopoly hopes to have more production details on a third well by the beginning of the year. YPF owns interest in proven reserves that hold more than 5.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent and produces more than a million barrels of hydrocarbon oil equivalent per day. The company has processing plants in Argentina and Spain. It is the largest private energy company in Latin America. YPF pays a steady dividend to its shareholders and the share price remains relatively stable.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/a56a61210981acf8bcd6c657d045a0ff-7.html#unique-entry-id-7Max GGuru FocusKazakhstan2011-12-20T08:54:14-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/w7YS3brbwx0/16ec5e76bf204cd77a3147a545f5d7da-6.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/16ec5e76bf204cd77a3147a545f5d7da-6.html#unique-entry-id-6Kazakhstan has spent the past few weeks celebrating 20 years of independence. There is much to celebrate. For the past decade, Kazakhstan has performed better than any of the ‘Stans with growth of 8% per year. This growth is twice as much as Turkmenistan and six times more than Uzbekistan. Both Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are more densely populated and maintain larger cities than Kazakhstan. The country’s large growth is not what was expected from the last of the soviet era countries to seek independence. Kazakhstan held out as long as they could, resisting the influence of the west. Now that they are an independent nation they have set their minds to exploiting the land’s vast resources.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/16ec5e76bf204cd77a3147a545f5d7da-6.html#unique-entry-id-6Max GGuru FocusChina2011-12-19T08:52:55-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/AVrX2peQqLM/68b80cea6a4a97c23f8436888da3bfca-5.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/68b80cea6a4a97c23f8436888da3bfca-5.html#unique-entry-id-5China’s floating currency has long been a source of concern among Westernized nations. The yuan’s floatation is not currently pegged to the to the U.S. dollar, which seems to be the international standard. The sale of the first dim sum bond by China Development Bank Corp in July 2007 was a sign to the world of China’s interest in internationalizing the yuan. Through 2010 only Hong Kong and China banks were allowed to issue bonds in yuan. Now banks throughout the world are able to issue them. That recent policy change is a more solid indicator of China’s intentions with relation to its currency.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/68b80cea6a4a97c23f8436888da3bfca-5.html#unique-entry-id-5Max GSeeking AlphaAustralia2011-11-23T08:50:58-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/BjzENmVXKGw/1838bf8f2c3828bb21fac8cd051766d0-4.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/1838bf8f2c3828bb21fac8cd051766d0-4.html#unique-entry-id-4Though Australia’s Prime Minister keeps saying that she doesn’t see cause for any concern, the rest of the world certainly sees it looming. Australian mining has been the example of success in recent years, but all signs now point to that slowing. The major problem with the mining community down under is that distribution is singular. China remains their main customer. China is facing problems of its own at the moment. Its population control policy has been effective and as the workforce population declines it is facing strategic shifts in its manufacturing industry. With the population slowing and China moving to compensate, its demand for minerals from Australia will also slow. This will greatly slow down Australia’s mining industry, which happens to be its most profitable industry at the moment. Australia needs to start a major marketing campaign for this industry. Yet with its own Prime Minister not seeing the concern it might be too little, too late.

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/1838bf8f2c3828bb21fac8cd051766d0-4.html#unique-entry-id-4Max GSeeking AlphaEastern Europe2011-11-21T08:49:06-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/yg_3FoaDxVI/5e1ceb8cbd152209963ad7032f4d8992-3.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5e1ceb8cbd152209963ad7032f4d8992-3.html#unique-entry-id-3The eyes of the world's financial markets and economies are fixed on Europe. Some predict that a failure by Germany to bail out Greece will result in the collapse of the eurozone. Others predict it will happen anyway. Right now the world is not in favor of betting on European markets staying in tact. But how is this affecting Eastern Europe? And what effect will this have on Europe's Eastern counterparts in the long run?

Read More...]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/5e1ceb8cbd152209963ad7032f4d8992-3.html#unique-entry-id-3Max GSeeking AlphaChina2011-11-17T08:45:36-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/iJYUiaI2kek/bdd99e3493f6a3a2e293f16b13139177-2.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/bdd99e3493f6a3a2e293f16b13139177-2.html#unique-entry-id-2Once upon a time, China was the low-cost manufacturing giant. Times have changed as China's population control policies have been effective, draining their once dense workforce. There aren’t as many people to fill jobs, or those willing to be paid a low wage for unskilled labor.

Read More….]]>http://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/bdd99e3493f6a3a2e293f16b13139177-2.html#unique-entry-id-2Max GSeeking AlphaBrazil2011-11-15T11:18:32-06:00http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/maxgpublishing/HmOO/~3/XyPX_TJCZw0/sa_infrastructure.htmlhttp://www.maxgpublishing.com/blog/files/sa_infrastructure.html#unique-entry-id-1The announcement to bring the 2016 Olympics to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has brought about big changes in the area’s slums, or favelas. The police have been working with special forces commandos to regain control of these heavy trafficking areas. The commandos move in to clear it out and the police come in and set up base. They are also bringing in health care and electricity to these areas. The residents are happy to see these changes and the traffickers are on the run. Positive things are happening in Brazil. Just this past week they took over one of Rio’s largest slums and also arrested one of the most wanted drug traffickers in the process. Perhaps the most surprising part of this story was a policeman turning down a 6 figure bribe. Now that is progress. Everything appears to be on the way up for Brazil. They are making all of the changes necessary to be taken seriously by the outside world. With electricity being brought into the slums that were once untouched, this would be a wonderful time to invest in Brazil’s infrastructure.

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