trailer
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Housing Drop, Confidence Down
Just look at how many years deep into the economy and in particular the housing sector the mortgage crisis at the center of the great recession has disrupted it all and will continue to disrupt it.
And yes there was great criminal activity in there and yes, no one has been adequately or justly charged with the crime. In my opinion the crime is worse than any betrayal of country that a single person could or has committed. This is Benedict Arnold times a million.
Reuters: Home prices drop, consumers turn gloomier
And yes there was great criminal activity in there and yes, no one has been adequately or justly charged with the crime. In my opinion the crime is worse than any betrayal of country that a single person could or has committed. This is Benedict Arnold times a million.
Reuters: Home prices drop, consumers turn gloomier
DOW Closes Higher
The DOW closed at 12,632.91 dropping 20.81 points.
Reuters: Wall Street ends strong January on flat note
Reuters: Wall Street ends strong January on flat note
DOW Lower At Noon
In the noon hour the DOW is at 12,591.17 down 62.55 points.
Reuters: Wall Street flat as data, earnings offset Europe hopes
Reuters: Wall Street flat as data, earnings offset Europe hopes
The Thinnest Of Membranes
I would bet that the actual number of families that are one crisis away from the bread line is greater than 50% of all households.
HuffPo: Working Poor: Almost Half Of U.S. Households Live One Crisis From The Bread Line
HuffPo: Working Poor: Almost Half Of U.S. Households Live One Crisis From The Bread Line
FOX Eats Its Own
Good article - its articulating what we already know. When you hype everyone up on lies, paranoia, and hatred, eventually something gives...
AlterNet: How Fox News Is Destroying The Republican Party
AlterNet: How Fox News Is Destroying The Republican Party
Its relentless, paranoid crusade falls well outside the mainstream of American politics, which is why the Republican primary season, so proudly sponsored by Fox News, is shaping up to be such an embarrassment.
The Market On Tuesday
Good Morning. It is 34 degrees and overcast here in Upstate NY. We also have a fine coating of snow from overnight which is already disappearing. Well I am elated. We just got in from a dog play group with our new dog. It is critical for a dog to socialize with other dogs, it helps to make them good citizens. The new puppy is worn out from running around with her new friends. Its quite a relief to find this.
At 8:35 a.m. futures are moderately higher, the dollar is down against all currencies except the yen, and oil is pricier per barrel. The market is poised to open higher.
Investors are pleased to see that the E.U. has agreed on a bailout fiscal fund established to save whoever. The measure does not help out Greece as Greece faces a March loan deadline. The expectation is that Greece will default and this is not so pleasing.
Otherwise, investors will be looking at data on home prices and consumer confidence.
Are you confident?
CNN: Stocks: Investors welcome Europe's fiscal pact
At 8:35 a.m. futures are moderately higher, the dollar is down against all currencies except the yen, and oil is pricier per barrel. The market is poised to open higher.
Investors are pleased to see that the E.U. has agreed on a bailout fiscal fund established to save whoever. The measure does not help out Greece as Greece faces a March loan deadline. The expectation is that Greece will default and this is not so pleasing.
Otherwise, investors will be looking at data on home prices and consumer confidence.
Are you confident?
CNN: Stocks: Investors welcome Europe's fiscal pact
European Union leaders agreed to implement the European Stability Mechanism, a permanent rescue fund, in July.
...the first summit of the year ended without new solutions for the debt crisis in Greece.
The Case-Shiller 20-city home price index is scheduled to be released at 9 a.m.
...the Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index is also set for release...
Monday, January 30, 2012
Romney-Christie
Good in theory but doesn't Romney need a fundie?
Yahoo: Romney-Christie, Gingrich-Rubio are most likely ticket pairings
Yahoo: Romney-Christie, Gingrich-Rubio are most likely ticket pairings
Tea Thing Of Past
The Tea Party is so 2009...
As Tea Party new found favorite (christened by Palin and Cain no less) Gingrich cannot gain traction in Florida, the Koch Brothers latest horrific political Trojan horse continues to implode.
Real Clear Politics: Is the Tea Party Losing Its Grip on the GOP?
As Tea Party new found favorite (christened by Palin and Cain no less) Gingrich cannot gain traction in Florida, the Koch Brothers latest horrific political Trojan horse continues to implode.
Real Clear Politics: Is the Tea Party Losing Its Grip on the GOP?
Sundance Winners
Guardian UK: Sundance film festival hands prizes to 'dark and grim' films
Beasts Of The Southern Wild
The Surrogate
The House I Live In
Beasts Of The Southern Wild
The Surrogate
The House I Live In
DOW Lower At Noon
In the noon hour the DOW is at 12,575.13 down 85.33 points.
Reuters: Wall Street led lower as banks extend losses
Reuters: Wall Street led lower as banks extend losses
Reactionary
Read it - very extensive article on the mind of the conservative, fundamentally reacting to all democratic grass roots challenges to the present structures of power, wealth, and dominance.
AlterNet: The Truth About the Conservative Mind: Why Reactionaries from Edmund Burke to Sarah Palin Have Fought Real Liberty
AlterNet: The Truth About the Conservative Mind: Why Reactionaries from Edmund Burke to Sarah Palin Have Fought Real Liberty
When the conservative looks upon a democratic movement from below, this is what he sees: a terrible disturbance in the private life of power.
The Market On Monday
Good morning. It is 27 degrees and cloudy here in Upstate NY. Its Monday and its back to the grind. Out walking the new doggie this morning we came across a very friendly 2 year old beagle mix. The two played very nicely together with lots of tail wagging and doggie camaraderie. Dog owners love that kind of thing.
At 8:25 a.m. futures are moderately down, the dollar is mostly up against major world currencies, and oil is down in price per barrel. The market is poised to open lower.
Its a back to worries about the Eurozone crisis type of day. The big news surrounds the non accomplishment of a deal concerning Greece's upcoming default in March. No deal means investors are concerned.
Interesting data comes out today on personal income. We need to learn more about this data because there's income and then there's income. If personal income goes up does this mean most everyone's income is up or is it just the ultra wealthy being averaged into the mix. One suspects its the latter and one also suspects Wall Street could care less where the numbers come from.
CNN: Stocks: Investors bemoan unfinished Greek deal
At 8:25 a.m. futures are moderately down, the dollar is mostly up against major world currencies, and oil is down in price per barrel. The market is poised to open lower.
Its a back to worries about the Eurozone crisis type of day. The big news surrounds the non accomplishment of a deal concerning Greece's upcoming default in March. No deal means investors are concerned.
Interesting data comes out today on personal income. We need to learn more about this data because there's income and then there's income. If personal income goes up does this mean most everyone's income is up or is it just the ultra wealthy being averaged into the mix. One suspects its the latter and one also suspects Wall Street could care less where the numbers come from.
CNN: Stocks: Investors bemoan unfinished Greek deal
Greek officials finished the weekend without a deal in their ongoing talks with private-sector creditors, and investors will be looking this week for the parties to finally reach an agreement.
...investors are growing worried about Portugal...
(Report on) The personal consumption expenditures index...
(Report on) Personal income...
Sunday, January 29, 2012
'Tiny Furniture'
trailer - nicely done indie film viewed on Netflix.
Young woman just graduates from college and moves back in with mom, mom is a successful NYC visual artist. The young woman is suffering from post graduation back into society trauma.
The main actress Lena Dunham wrote and directed the film, she is a first rate talent.
Young woman just graduates from college and moves back in with mom, mom is a successful NYC visual artist. The young woman is suffering from post graduation back into society trauma.
The main actress Lena Dunham wrote and directed the film, she is a first rate talent.
50% To 37%
Rasmussen has Obama winning over Gingrich 50% to 37%. Rasmussen is decidedly conservative. Others have the gap even wider.
Real Clear Politics: Gingrich vs Obama Polls
Real Clear Politics: Gingrich vs Obama Polls
Morning
It is 26 degrees and clear in Upstate NY. I hope you are having a good weekend. Today is another work day for me but after today my weekends will be free for a while, I think.
While I work I listen to the radio and keep track of the news mostly through the BBC. I was very disappointed to hear Newt Gingrich fear mongering to Florida's older Jewish citizens. He's going on about the threat from Iran as if there is a nuclear bomb ready to explode in Israel, he even called it another Holocaust. He's hoping to capitalize on fear, I find that to be loathsome.
One big throbbing problem with Gingrich is that the man seems to have a complete lack of empathy and sympathy of any noticeable measure. He's about as warm as an iceberg. Even the peerless George Bush II conveyed a measure of warmth even while he was issuing sadistic policy after sadistic policy. Gingrich does not get people. You do not warm up to Gingrich, he's foul medicine spoonful after miserable spoonful.
While I work I listen to the radio and keep track of the news mostly through the BBC. I was very disappointed to hear Newt Gingrich fear mongering to Florida's older Jewish citizens. He's going on about the threat from Iran as if there is a nuclear bomb ready to explode in Israel, he even called it another Holocaust. He's hoping to capitalize on fear, I find that to be loathsome.
One big throbbing problem with Gingrich is that the man seems to have a complete lack of empathy and sympathy of any noticeable measure. He's about as warm as an iceberg. Even the peerless George Bush II conveyed a measure of warmth even while he was issuing sadistic policy after sadistic policy. Gingrich does not get people. You do not warm up to Gingrich, he's foul medicine spoonful after miserable spoonful.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Lying
The article unpacks a few of the right wings shameless talking points.
The right wing's fear mongering over SSI is unconscionable.
AlterNet: Right-Wing Lunacy: The Shameless Lies Conservative Media Tell Their Audience
The right wing's fear mongering over SSI is unconscionable.
AlterNet: Right-Wing Lunacy: The Shameless Lies Conservative Media Tell Their Audience
As if to concede that there is no Social Security crisis in the near future, Klein engages in three intellectually dishonest maneuvers typical of right-wing propagandists. First, he talks about medium-term and long-term problems as though they were present-day emergencies. Second, he blurs the distinction between Social Security’s long-term fiscal challenges, which are minor, and those caused by rising healthcare costs, in order to make Social Security seem worse off than it is in reality. Third, he implies that “the growing debt burden” of the United States is primarily caused by Social Security...
Early Morning
Good morning. It is 32 degrees and cloudy here in Upstate NY. Work is on my agenda for the weekend. I hope your weekend will be more restful and renewing. I suspect I have reached a particular juncture in my life because the temperature and weather is a big deal. Regardless the moderate January temperatures continue along with a few streaks of remaining snow mostly where people pile it up next to the driveway. This is not the wintertime we are used to or expect in this part of the country.
Enjoy your day.
Enjoy your day.
Friday, January 27, 2012
DOW Lower At Noon
In the noon hour the DOW is at 12,638.28 down 96.35 points.
The GDP percent was not a happy number for investors or in relation to the state of the overall economy.
Reuters: Wall Street lower at open after GDP data
The GDP percent was not a happy number for investors or in relation to the state of the overall economy.
Reuters: Wall Street lower at open after GDP data
Digital Music
Digital music etc artists consider sending your material to - Synthtopia - for review.
When Is A Lie A Lie
Whenever a politician speaks, they are lying. Yet people seem to eat it up.
AlterNet: The 10 Most Brazen Lies Offered By the Remaining GOP Presidential Hopefuls
AlterNet: The 10 Most Brazen Lies Offered By the Remaining GOP Presidential Hopefuls
1.Mitt Romney wrote a book called No Apology, and has repeatedly said on the campaign trail that Obama took a world tour at the beginning of his presidency to issue mea culpas to dastardly foreigners everywhere. This lie is so brazen not only because it never happened, but also because Romney uses the talking-point in speech after speech.
2.8% Fourth Quarter GDP
They were hoping for 3.2%. This number will have a tremendous influence on Wall Street's direction.
From CNN:
From CNN:
U.S. economy grows at 2.8% annual rate in 4th quarter, strongest since 2nd quarter of 2010, but below forecasts.
The Market On Friday
Good morning and welcome to the weekend. It is 33 degrees, raining, and slushy here in Upstate NY. We just got back from walking the new dog in the slushy streets. Everybody and the dog are soaked, and its nice to walk into a warm dry house. All feet got very soaked, lots of socks and shoes are hanging out drying off.
At 8:25 a.m. futures are slightly higher, the dollar is down against all major world currencies, and oil is up per barrel. The market is poised to open higher except...
In a very short time the government will release the first reading of the fourth quarter GDP. Needless to say, this is a big deal for the investment class and everybody's understanding of how the recovering economy is fairing.
A bad reading will tank the market today, an average reading will be unsettling, and a better than expected reading might cause a momentary release of fear and envy along with keeping the rapidly approaching DOW at 13K in sight.
CNN: Stocks: Investors await reading on U.S. growth
At 8:25 a.m. futures are slightly higher, the dollar is down against all major world currencies, and oil is up per barrel. The market is poised to open higher except...
In a very short time the government will release the first reading of the fourth quarter GDP. Needless to say, this is a big deal for the investment class and everybody's understanding of how the recovering economy is fairing.
A bad reading will tank the market today, an average reading will be unsettling, and a better than expected reading might cause a momentary release of fear and envy along with keeping the rapidly approaching DOW at 13K in sight.
CNN: Stocks: Investors await reading on U.S. growth
...the government's fourth-quarter GDP reading before the market open...
Anxiety continues to loom over Greece's ongoing negotiations with private-sector creditors in an attempt to reduce its debt burden.
Ford, aided by a one-time gain, posted 2011 profit of $20.2 billion -- its biggest since 1998.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
DOW Closes Lower
The DOW closed at 12,734.63 dropping 22.33 points.
Reuters: January rally interrupted as buyers pull back
Reuters: January rally interrupted as buyers pull back
Record Low New Home Sales
On the other hand, is it desirable that there is an ever increasing supply of new homes year after year? How much growth in this area of housing is not just desirable but realistic.
The notion that growth has to be maintained year after year and that anything less is somehow implied to be a failing or a failure is suspect.
CNN: New-home sales hit a record low
The notion that growth has to be maintained year after year and that anything less is somehow implied to be a failing or a failure is suspect.
CNN: New-home sales hit a record low
DOW Flat At Noon
In the noon hour the DOW is at 12,768.84 up 11.88 points.
Reuters: Bernanke news conference on Fed policy
Reuters: Bernanke news conference on Fed policy
Invisibility Cloak
I thought most Americans already were invisible?
Live Science: Invisibility Tube Conceals 3-D Objects
Live Science: Invisibility Tube Conceals 3-D Objects
Loving The Hate
Its not that Gingrich is a philandering hypocritical blowhard, its that he's a hard hating seething man and he hates the right (black, liberal, gay, women, immigrant, and Muslims) people.
Got it...
AlterNet: Why Evangelicals Don't Care When Rich White Conservatives Defile Marriage
Got it...
AlterNet: Why Evangelicals Don't Care When Rich White Conservatives Defile Marriage
They love Gingrich because he’s a flaming ball of rage they can wield against everyone they hate.
The Market On Thursday
Good morning. It is 27 degrees and overcast in a bright way here in Upstate NY. I was out walking with the new bowser for the last hour and a half. We had a great time! So listen to this, we got maybe 1/8 of an inch of snow this morning, a dusting. Damned if the town isn't out there salting down the roads, and when they salt the roads around here, they throw it out there by the sack. So most of the walk we had to try to avoid the salt as it hurts a dog's delicate paw parts.
At 8:30 a.m. futures are moderately higher, the dollar is down against major world currencies, and oil is pricier per barrel. Right now the market is poised to open higher.
I see the first time unemployment numbers for the last week is 377,000. This is higher than last week but the number is still below the critical 400,000 threshold so this is good news.
Otherwise investors will be hit with all types of data today and in particular on durable goods, new home sales, and a slew of fourth quarter corporate earnings reports.
Greece still looms in the background and foreground. Investors were also very pleased to hear that the Fed will be holding interest rates at near zero levels through 2014.
CNN: Stocks: Bracing for a busy day
At 8:30 a.m. futures are moderately higher, the dollar is down against major world currencies, and oil is pricier per barrel. Right now the market is poised to open higher.
I see the first time unemployment numbers for the last week is 377,000. This is higher than last week but the number is still below the critical 400,000 threshold so this is good news.
Otherwise investors will be hit with all types of data today and in particular on durable goods, new home sales, and a slew of fourth quarter corporate earnings reports.
Greece still looms in the background and foreground. Investors were also very pleased to hear that the Fed will be holding interest rates at near zero levels through 2014.
CNN: Stocks: Bracing for a busy day
Also due Thursday morning are reports on durable goods orders and new home sales.
Oil for March delivery added $1.39 to $100.79 a barrel.
'There Will Never Be Another You'
Biréli Lagrène with Angelo Debarre and Stochelo Rosenberg
Three of the very best gypsy style guitarists of all time.
Three of the very best gypsy style guitarists of all time.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Philandering Gingrich Is Only 'Normal'
Truth be told here - I despite Gingrich, have for decades now. Now that he claims that he is only normal because he is a philandering blameless poor soul, will he apologize to the country for putting us through years of bull over the philandering Bill Clinton? After all Bill Clinton must at least be equally as normal...
Raw Story: Gingrich claims marital infidelity makes him ‘more normal’
Raw Story: Gingrich claims marital infidelity makes him ‘more normal’
DOW Closes Higher
The DOW closed at 12,758.85 gaining 83.10 points.
The Federal Reserve issued a 'ground breaking' forecast for the American economy - more jobs than previously expected in 2012, less growth than previously expected in 2012, and interest rates remaining at near 0% through 2014.
CNN: Fed forecasting breaks new ground
The Federal Reserve issued a 'ground breaking' forecast for the American economy - more jobs than previously expected in 2012, less growth than previously expected in 2012, and interest rates remaining at near 0% through 2014.
CNN: Fed forecasting breaks new ground
Maddow And Matthews On Daniels' Response Etc
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Unpacking Newts
Gingrich will say anything. Let's face it. And the language is designed to raise the ire of the poorly informed authoritarian sheeple.
AlterNet: How Newt Gingrich Shamelessly Feeds the Fears and Egos of White Conservatives -- and Why That May Win Him the GOP Nomination
AlterNet: How Newt Gingrich Shamelessly Feeds the Fears and Egos of White Conservatives -- and Why That May Win Him the GOP Nomination
More American families went on food-stamps during George W. Bush's term in office than under any other president in history – almost a half-million more than under Barack Obama. Facts don't matter much in a GOP primary contest...
Gingrich's retelling of the facts -
“Well, first of all, Juan, the fact is that more people have been put on food stamps by Barack Obama than any president in American history. I know, among the politically correct, you’re not supposed to use facts that are uncomfortable... and if that makes liberals unhappy...I’m going to continue to find ways to help poor people learn how to get a job, learn how to get a better job, and learn, some day, to own the job.”
The Market On Wednesday
Good morning. It is 33 degrees and overcast here in Upstate NY. The milder January temperatures continue. I did not listen to President Obama's attempt to rally the country and his political ambitions last night. It is on my immediate list of things to check out. Hey one thing positive you can say about Obama is this - at least he's not Newt Gingrich.
At 8:05 a.m. futures are a little below flat, the dollar is up against major world currencies, and oil is down in price per barrel. Right now the markets are set to open slightly lower.
As far as I can tell at least five pieces of salient information will be influencing investors and the trend of the market today.
First there is the fallout from Obama's speech and how it will be viewed by Wall Street.
Next, there is the critical issue of Greece and how it may or may not be able to pay its National nut in March.
Then we have data coming out from the most recent Fed meeting regarding interest rates and an unusual prediction for our future.
This is followed by the ongoing fourth quarter reports from major corporations, and did you see that Apple is going gang busters.
Finally there is some data on the crucial housing market.
So like all of us on Main Steeet, it will be a full day on Wall Street.
CNN: Stocks set for quiet open
At 8:05 a.m. futures are a little below flat, the dollar is up against major world currencies, and oil is down in price per barrel. Right now the markets are set to open slightly lower.
As far as I can tell at least five pieces of salient information will be influencing investors and the trend of the market today.
First there is the fallout from Obama's speech and how it will be viewed by Wall Street.
Next, there is the critical issue of Greece and how it may or may not be able to pay its National nut in March.
Then we have data coming out from the most recent Fed meeting regarding interest rates and an unusual prediction for our future.
This is followed by the ongoing fourth quarter reports from major corporations, and did you see that Apple is going gang busters.
Finally there is some data on the crucial housing market.
So like all of us on Main Steeet, it will be a full day on Wall Street.
CNN: Stocks set for quiet open
Greece is in desperate need of an agreement to receive additional bailout funds from the European Union and International Monetary Fund.
The Fed is set to release forward-looking forecasts for the federal funds rate for the first time ever.
...pending home sales for the month of December...
Bernie Take Down
Bernie Sanders takes apart the GOP candidates.
PoliticusUSA.com: Bernie Sanders Takes Down Every Single GOP Presidential Candidate
PoliticusUSA.com: Bernie Sanders Takes Down Every Single GOP Presidential Candidate
One of the problems that I see in the Republican primaries is that these guys are so out of touch with the reality that the American people are going through that it is really quite amazing.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Fundamentalism
It always strikes me as very unfortunate when people become violent in the name of god.
She was putting up posters for Israel's National lottery.
CBS News: Israeli police: Extremist Jews attack woman
Your Middle East: Ultra-Orthodoxs attack woman in Israeli town
She was putting up posters for Israel's National lottery.
CBS News: Israeli police: Extremist Jews attack woman
Your Middle East: Ultra-Orthodoxs attack woman in Israeli town
DOW Closes Lower
The DOW closed at 12,675.75 dropping 33.07 points.
CNN: Stocks stumble on Greek debt fears, earnings
CNN: Stocks stumble on Greek debt fears, earnings
Taxing Romney
Romney is said to have made $22 million in 2010 and that money came from dividends and capital gains. At a modest rate of return of 7%, this might mean he was holding onto $308 million in investments only. The guy is very rich.
The rich have it real good in this country. Is it fair? - oh hell no.
CNN: Romney made $42.7 million in 2 years
The rich have it real good in this country. Is it fair? - oh hell no.
CNN: Romney made $42.7 million in 2 years
The reason Romney's rate is so low -- despite having one of the highest incomes in the country -- is because his income was derived almost entirely from capital gains and dividends from his extensive portfolio of investments. And that form of investment income is typically taxed at just 15%, well below the 35% top tax rate for high earners.
The Market On Tuesday
Good morning. It is 43 degrees and clearing here in Upstate NY. The snow that only a few days ago covered lawns is now gone, maybe 5% remains but only for a short time. The unusually mild January temperatures are returning. A lot of people are wondering if the sub freezing temperatures have already come and gone. Let's not jinx it now okay...
At 8:05 a.m. futures are modestly down, the dollar is up against all major world currencies, and oil is down in price. Right now the markets are poised to open lower.
The market summation articles are pointing to major concerns with how Greece will travel through its economic implosion. There's a lot at stake here simply because Greece is on the leading edge of other Eurozone countries in similar precarious situations.
Beyond that, the fourth quarter reports continue to come through and as far as I can tell they are adequate. So one must presume that the Greece crisis really is a big deal as it is overshadowing other data.
CNN: Stocks: Eyes on Greek debt and earnings
At 8:05 a.m. futures are modestly down, the dollar is up against all major world currencies, and oil is down in price. Right now the markets are poised to open lower.
The market summation articles are pointing to major concerns with how Greece will travel through its economic implosion. There's a lot at stake here simply because Greece is on the leading edge of other Eurozone countries in similar precarious situations.
Beyond that, the fourth quarter reports continue to come through and as far as I can tell they are adequate. So one must presume that the Greece crisis really is a big deal as it is overshadowing other data.
CNN: Stocks: Eyes on Greek debt and earnings
"The primary impact of the Greek debt crisis is an overwhelmingly negative impact to and deflation of confidence in world markets..."
The International Monetary Fund will release its World Economic Outlook later Tuesday.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Frum On Gingrich
Conservative Frum does not hold back against the former Speaker of the House.
Frum backs Romney as all establishment Republicans do.
We so much enjoy political in fighting...
CNN: Why GOP leaders don't trust Gingrich
Frum backs Romney as all establishment Republicans do.
We so much enjoy political in fighting...
CNN: Why GOP leaders don't trust Gingrich
...two great themes that have characterized Gingrich's career to this day: enthusiasm for grandiose ideas -- wrapped in rancor, division and name-calling.
Over a political career of nearly 40 years, Gingrich has convinced almost everybody who has ever worked closely with him that he cannot and should not be trusted with executive power.
It's striking that almost none of Gingrich's former colleagues in the House has endorsed him for president.
DOW Closes Lower
The DOW closed at 12,708.82 dropping 11.66 points.
Reuters: Wall Street ends flat, eyes key earnings
Reuters: Wall Street ends flat, eyes key earnings
Paying Attention To The Environment - Two Perspectives
The article points to a suggestion that there is a biological basis for conservative and liberal views.
Live Science: Conservatives & Liberals Don't See Eye-to-Eye, Literally
Live Science: Conservatives & Liberals Don't See Eye-to-Eye, Literally
TAEA
Interesting perspective with a dose of reality on a recent American Economic Association's meeting...
AlterNet: The Economic Idiocy of Economists
AlterNet: The Economic Idiocy of Economists
...since this is an election year, we can forget about having any fact-based discussion of these (economic) issues in 2012.
In fact, even Japan is not going to end up like Greece, and Japan has a gross public debt of about 220% of its GDP, more than twice the size of ours and vastly larger – again, relative to its economy – than that of Greece.
The Market On Monday
Good morning. It is 31 degrees and cloudy here in Upstate NY. Allegedly we are looking at temperatures in the 30s and 40s through the week. That is back to the unusually milder temperatures we never experience around these parts in January. The roads are all perfectly clear from the weekend's snow and bitter cold, the lawns are covered in snow. It looks like winter out there.
At 8:20 a.m. futures are modestly higher, the dollar is mostly down against major world currencies, and oil is up in price per barrel. Right now the markets are set to open higher.
Investors will get their first look at the fourth quarter GDP on Friday. That data will be very telling but given the improved economic outlook one might make a guess that the numbers will be slightly better than expected.
Otherwise we are back to the concerns about the Eurozone debt crisis and in particular Greece. Greece is out of order. The concern is that the country will not be able to repay some major debt on March 20. So the time around the first day of spring is loaded with world economy implications.
Notice that Bush administration and especially VP Cheney favorite Halliburton is going great guns. Personally I would never invest a penny in that company.
CNN: Stocks: Greece's debt talks in focus
At 8:20 a.m. futures are modestly higher, the dollar is mostly down against major world currencies, and oil is up in price per barrel. Right now the markets are set to open higher.
Investors will get their first look at the fourth quarter GDP on Friday. That data will be very telling but given the improved economic outlook one might make a guess that the numbers will be slightly better than expected.
Otherwise we are back to the concerns about the Eurozone debt crisis and in particular Greece. Greece is out of order. The concern is that the country will not be able to repay some major debt on March 20. So the time around the first day of spring is loaded with world economy implications.
Notice that Bush administration and especially VP Cheney favorite Halliburton is going great guns. Personally I would never invest a penny in that company.
CNN: Stocks: Greece's debt talks in focus
...officials have yet to announce a deal to scale back the nation's (Greece) overwhelming debt load.
The Federal Reserve starts a two-day meeting on Tuesday...
...Halliburton released quarterly results that beat the Street on both earnings and revenue...
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Full Steam Backwards
The Fed recently released transcripts of its 2006 Open Market Committee meetings. There is a 5 year lag in seeing these transcripts. Dean Baker pieces together the outright incompetence and complete and utter lack of foresight of the members of this committee which had the power to avert the monumental collapse of the Great Recession if they only knew what they were doing.
Guardian UK: Alan Greenspan's ship of fools
Guardian UK: Alan Greenspan's ship of fools
The public may be powerless at the moment to force our political leaders to take the steps necessary to bring the economy back to full employment. However, we certainly have the ability to ridicule the incompetence of those responsible for this preventable disaster. We should take full advantage of the opportunity provided by the latest Fed transcripts.
'Back To Where You've Never Been'
I'm reposting this for Sunday. Its a cool show, not without fault but still probably about as provocative as a TV series can be right now.
Fringe - latest episode
Fringe - latest episode
Just The Facts
It will interesting to live under the regime of a humorless man, someone devoid of humility, self awareness, and self reflection, someone who doesn't measure their words at all. Maybe society will overcompensate and move in a more humane direction.
AddictingInfo.org: 18 Newt Gingrich Quotes That Disqualify Him From Ever Being President
AddictingInfo.org: 18 Newt Gingrich Quotes That Disqualify Him From Ever Being President
Walker Recall Vs Voter ID
Q-Name a sure fire way to suppress voter turnout so that a marginal candidate can claim victory?
A-Voter IDs.
AlterNet: Wisconsin Recall Elections a Sure Thing, but New ID Law May Undercut Anti-Walker Vote
A-Voter IDs.
AlterNet: Wisconsin Recall Elections a Sure Thing, but New ID Law May Undercut Anti-Walker Vote
Morning
Good morning. At 7:50 a.m. it is 1 degree and sunny here in Upstate NY. Yes its cold but the forecast is still saying that Monday we are in the 40s. The forecaster could be just saying that in order to bait us along as it were.
When someone like Newt Gingrich starts winning Presidential primaries I begin to cringe. You see, I thought Reagan could never possibly win and later on I was convinced that George Bush II did not have a prayer. Clearly I overestimate the American public and recognizing this flaw, let's get practical and admit that Gingrich could win. And that's why I cringe.
When someone like Newt Gingrich starts winning Presidential primaries I begin to cringe. You see, I thought Reagan could never possibly win and later on I was convinced that George Bush II did not have a prayer. Clearly I overestimate the American public and recognizing this flaw, let's get practical and admit that Gingrich could win. And that's why I cringe.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Carville Rips The GOP Establishment
Democratic Party cheerleader James Carville lays into the GOP establishment about their little problem in getting Romney his presumed top spot. Romney has a few miserable skeletons in his wealth closet but Newt has skeletons in everybody's closet.
This is the political equivalent of listening to Charles Barkley wax on about the state of the NBA.
Its all just that - sport and hot air.
CNN: Carville to GOP: You have a disaster on your hands
This is the political equivalent of listening to Charles Barkley wax on about the state of the NBA.
Its all just that - sport and hot air.
CNN: Carville to GOP: You have a disaster on your hands
Now, you guys have to deal with a $1.6 million Freddie Mac consultant (who says he wasn't a lobbyist) who has been married three times. Hope you, at least, enjoy the Super Bowl. It could be your last hurrah for a while.
'Planet Of Snail'
trailer - Personal film about an intelligent artistic man who is both blind and deaf and seeks to get on in the world.
Slippery Morning
Roads are very slick around here as the snow is still falling at 11 a.m. I was out on the thruway extension 787 and its not fun driving - single lane, slippery roads, some cars that are stuck. Drive only if you really have to.
Work by one of sande.blogspot's favorites - Willy Verginer
Work by one of sande.blogspot's favorites - Willy Verginer
Sweety
Amazing in depth reading on addiction numero uno - sugar.
AlterNet: Sugar High: The Dark History and Nasty Methods Used to Feed Our Sweet Tooth
AlterNet: Sugar High: The Dark History and Nasty Methods Used to Feed Our Sweet Tooth
Morning
Good morning. It is 13 degrees and lightly snowing here in Upstate NY. Its roughly 7:30 a.m. and its still pretty dark outside too. As usual we have lots of different activities planned for the weekend. I am looking forward to celebrating Chinese New Year on Sunday.
Otherwise, its all about preparing for the next week, continuing the work on this old house, acquiring food, relaxing, venturing out in the snow, reading, all of it.
I could use a new restaurant.
Otherwise, its all about preparing for the next week, continuing the work on this old house, acquiring food, relaxing, venturing out in the snow, reading, all of it.
I could use a new restaurant.
Friday, January 20, 2012
South Carolina Voters
Good film clip -
Guardian UK: South Carolina primary voters tell how they made their decision - video
Guardian UK: South Carolina primary voters tell how they made their decision - video
DOW Closes Higher
The DOW closed at 12,720.48 gaining 96.50 points.
Its a start -
CNN: SOPA and PIPA postponed indefinitely after protests
Its a start -
CNN: SOPA and PIPA postponed indefinitely after protests
TRNN - Former IAEA Inspector Calls For Transparancy On All Sides
More on Iran's alleged nuclear activity.
DOW Higher At Noon
In the noon hour the DOW is up 49 points.
Some are saying that the housing market is recovering.
CNN: Home sales continue to improve
Some are saying that the housing market is recovering.
CNN: Home sales continue to improve
FOX Least Trusted
I don't think of FOX as news, its biased propaganda.
Public Polling Policy: 3rd Annual TV News Trust Poll
Public Polling Policy: 3rd Annual TV News Trust Poll
The Market On Friday
Good morning and welcome to the weekend. It is 19 degrees and sunny here in Upstate NY. We got a light dusting of snow last night, unfortunately the town is out in full force salting down the roads when there's not really a need to do it. I guess the budget needs to be spent. The salt is of course inhibiting to the local dog population as the salt burns the delicate parts of their feet.
At 8:30 a.m. futures are slightly down, the dollar is down, and oil is down. The market is poised to open lower.
Investors are re-concerned with the ongoing Eurozone debt crisis and now back in focus is Greece. Greece will be defaulting on its debt and the wonder is how this will all play out in financial markets.
In addition investors are examining fourth quarter reports from big tech firms along with data on existing home sales.
Recently the market has opened lower and changed course by mid-day. Its really a crap shoot.
CNN: Stocks: Cautious trading day ahead
At 8:30 a.m. futures are slightly down, the dollar is down, and oil is down. The market is poised to open lower.
Investors are re-concerned with the ongoing Eurozone debt crisis and now back in focus is Greece. Greece will be defaulting on its debt and the wonder is how this will all play out in financial markets.
In addition investors are examining fourth quarter reports from big tech firms along with data on existing home sales.
Recently the market has opened lower and changed course by mid-day. Its really a crap shoot.
CNN: Stocks: Cautious trading day ahead
The deal is a key condition for Greece to receive additional bailout funds from the European Union and International Monetary Fund.
...quarterly results from some of the nation's biggest tech firms...
At 10 a.m. ET, investors will get report on existing home sales...
Thursday, January 19, 2012
DOW Closes Higher
The DOW closed at 12,623.98 gaining 45.03 points.
Reuters: Wall Street advances on bank results, data
Reuters: Wall Street advances on bank results, data
DOW Higher At Noon
In the noon hour the DOW is up 31 points.
Reuters: Financials, Europe debt auctions lift Wall Street
Reuters: Financials, Europe debt auctions lift Wall Street
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