Weekly Economic Update January 16, 2012

WEEKLY QUOTE   “Sweet are the slumbers of the virtuous man.” – Joseph Addison     WEEKLY TIP   If your monthly bank statement comes with a fee disclosure, it may be a big hint that fee hikes are coming your way.     WEEKLY RIDDLE   Create a 13-letter word using all 13 of the following letters: O A I I S T T R R D N A M.     Last week’s riddle: What is worn by the foot and often bought by the yard?     Last week’s answer: Carpet.	January 16, 2012   AN UNDERWHELMING RETAIL SALES REPORT Holiday shopping was strong … or was it? The Census Bureau’s newest monthly retail sales data indicated only a 0.1% gain for December. Yet in the big picture, 2011 was the best year for retail sales since 1999. Total retail sales rose 7.7% last year, online and catalog sales were up 10.6% and overall sales have now improved about 20% from the depths hit during the Great Recession.1,2 CONSUMER SENTIMENT INDEX INCREASES The University of Michigan’s preliminary January consumer sentiment survey showed further improvement, with a gain from 69.9 to 74.0; the best reading since last May and better than the 71.5 economists polled by Reuters anticipated.3   NEW BEIGE BOOK NOTES IMPROVING ECONOMY The Federal Reserve’s new economic snapshot of its 12 banking districts showed 11 noting economic growth. The anecdotal survey noted improvement in auto and retail sales, manufacturing and consumer spending in the last six weeks of 2011.4   S&P CUTS CREDIT RATINGS OF 9 EU NATIONS After U.S. markets closed Friday, Standard & Poor’s downgraded a third of the European Union: it took France from AAA to AA+, cut ratings for Austria, Slovakia, Slovenia and Malta by a notch and booted the ratings of Italy, Portugal, Spain and Cyprus down two notches. S&P said the EU’s debt reduction plan lacks “sufficient size or scope”. Additionally, EU talks on restructuring Greek debt fell apart Friday.5   STOCKS ON A WINNING STREAK The S&P 500 posted its second straight weekly gain across January 9-13, rising 0.88% to 1,289.09. The DJIA rose 1.67% to 12,422.06 and the NASDAQ gained 1.36% to 2,710.67. Last week also saw gains for the U.S. Dollar Index (0.24%) and COMEX gold (0.87%).5,6   THIS WEEK: U.S. financial markets are closed Monday for the federal holiday honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Tuesday, Wells Fargo, Citigroup and Charles Schwab issue earnings reports. Wednesday, the December PPI arrives and we will have Q4 earnings from eBay and assorted financial heavy hitters: Goldman Sachs, Bank of NY Mellon, State Street, Northern Trust, PNC Bank and US Bancorp. Thursday, we have December’s CPI, a new initial jobless claims report and Q4 results from more big names: Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, AmEx, IBM, Microsoft, Google, Sony Ericsson, UnitedHealth and Capital One. Friday, last month’s existing home sales figures will be released along with earnings from GE.   % CHANGE Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG   DJIA +1.67 +5.88 -0.21 +2.56   NASDAQ +4.05 -0.90 +1.66 +3.62   S&P 500 +2.50 +0.42 -1.98 +1.32   REAL YIELD 1/13 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO   10 YR TIPS -0.14% 0.97% 2.49% 3.48%   Sources: money.msn.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 1/13/121,5,7,8,9 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
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This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.   Citations. 1 – www.census.gov/retail/marts/www/marts_current.pdf [1/12/12] 2 – www.chron.com/business/article/Retail-had-record-year-but-eased-in-December-2490293.php [1/12/12] 3 – www.nytimes.com/2012/01/14/business/economy/trade-deficit-and-consumer-sentiment-rise.html [1/14/12] 4 – www.usatoday.com/money/economy/fed/beigebook/story/2012-01-11/fed-beige-book-january/52500550/1 [1/11/12] 5 – money.msn.com/market-news/post.aspx?post=a677f0ec-38f9-432c-bbc1-fb98c5362013 [1/13/12] 6 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=common-financial-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them&category=29 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=1%2F13%2F11&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=1%2F13%2F11&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=1%2F13%2F11&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=1%2F12%2F07&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=1%2F12%2F07&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=1%2F12%2F07&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=1%2F14%2F02&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=1%2F14%2F02&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=1%2F14%2F02&x=0&y=0 [1/13/12] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [1/13/12] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [1/13/12] 9 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2002/ofm10902.pdf [1/9/02]

Weekly Economic Update January 9, 2012

WEEKLY QUOTE   “Being brilliant is no great feat if you respect nothing.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe     WEEKLY TIP   If you’re thinking about selling a business, consider contacting a business broker, one that represents companies similar to yours. It may make finding an appropriate buyer easier.     WEEKLY RIDDLE   What is worn by the foot and often bought by the yard?     Last week’s riddle: They can run side by side for thousands of miles; they are made of steel. While they constantly touch the ground, they seldom meet or touch each other. What are they?     Last week’s answer: Railroad tracks.	January 9, 2012   UNEMPLOYMENT DOWN TO 8.5% In December, the jobless rate declined for the fourth straight month to its lowest level since February 2009. The Labor Department announced that the economy added 200,000 net new jobs last month, topping the consensus forecast of analysts polled by Reuters who expected a gain of 155,000. Separately, payroll processing firm ADP reported private sector firms hiring 325,000 workers in December. Whether December’s boost reflects a seasonal hiring boom or not, Labor Department data indicates that private sector payrolls expanded by an average of 132,000 jobs per month during the second half of 2011.1,2 MANUFACTURING, SERVICE SECTOR GAUGES RISE According to the twin barometers of the Institute for Supply Management, the U.S. manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors continued to expand last month. ISM’s service sector PMI came in at 52.6, up 0.6% from the November reading; its manufacturing PMI rose to 53.9 from November’s 52.7 mark.3   BIG GAINS OUT OF THE GATE FOR GOLD & CRUDE The first trading week of 2012 saw crude oil futures rise 2.73% to top $100 a barrel again; futures settled at $101.56 Friday on the NYMEX. Gold went back above the $1,600 level with a $50.30 weekly advance. Gold futures were up 3.21% for the week; Friday’s closing price on the COMEX was $1,616.10.4,5   STOCKS START 2012 WITH GAINS Across January 3-6, the Dow rose 1.17% to 12,359.92, the NASDAQ climbed 2.65% to 2,674.22 and the S&P 500 advanced 1.61% to 1,277.81. Optimism prevailed despite more woes from the Eurozone: Fitch Ratings lowered Hungary’s credit rating to “junk” status on Friday and the euro fell to a 16-month low versus the dollar.2   THIS WEEK: Monday, German chancellor Angela Merkel and French president Nicolas Sarkozy meet to discuss the EU’s new fiscal pact; Alcoa kicks off the Q4 earnings season. Tuesday, we get a report on November’s wholesale trade. Wednesday brings a new Beige Book from the Federal Reserve and Q4 results from Lennar. Thursday, the Census Bureau releases December retail sales figures, the latest initial jobless claims data arrives and the European Central Bank and Bank of England issue monetary policy statements. On Friday, the University of Michigan’s preliminary January consumer sentiment survey will be out, plus Q4 earnings from JPMorgan.   % CHG Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +1.17 +5.66 -0.0006 +2.12 NASDAQ +2.65 -1.32 +1.97 +3.13 S&P 500 +1.61 +0.31 -1.87 +0.97 REAL YIELD 1/6 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS -0.11% 0.96% 2.39% 3.48%   Sources: online.wsj.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 1/6/122,7,8,9 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
Please feel free to forward this article to family, friends or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our distribution list, please reply with their address. We will contact them first and request their permission to add them to our list.
This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.   Citations. 1 – abcnews.go.com/Business/MadeInAmerica/december-jobless-rate-falls-85-percent/story?id=15300534 [1/6/12] 2 – www.cnbc.com/id/45899327 [1/6/12] 3 – www.ism.ws/ISMReport/NonMfgROB.cfm [1/6/12] 4 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2012/01/06/data-points-energy-metals-540/ [1/6/12] 5 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=common-financial-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them&category=29 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=1%2F6%2F11&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=1%2F6%2F11&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=1%2F6%2F11&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=1%2F5%2F07&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=1%2F5%2F07&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=1%2F5%2F07&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=1%2F7%2F02&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=1%2F7%2F02&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=1%2F7%2F02&x=0&y=0 [1/6/12] 7 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [1/6/12] 7 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [1/6/12] 8 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2002/ofm10902.pdf [1/9/02]

 

Weekly Economic Update January 2, 2012

WEEKLY QUOTE “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt     WEEKLY TIP It may be a good idea to make your 2012 IRA contribution at the start of the year, rather than waiting until the tax filing deadline of the following year. That way the contributed assets will have more time to compound.     WEEKLY RIDDLE They can run side by side for thousands of miles; they are made of steel. While they constantly touch the ground, they seldom meet or touch each other. What are they?     Last week’s riddle: They are sometimes stomped on, yet they can also be very tasty and sweet. What are they?     Last week’s answer: Grapes.	January 2, 2012   STOCKS IN 2011: DJIA +5.5%, S&P 500 ENDS FLAT The Dow Jones Industrial Average bucked a global trend and advanced in 2011. The index rose 11.95% in the fourth quarter, a move that separated it from a pack of overseas benchmarks that finished the year with double-digit percentage losses. In terms of price return, the S&P 500 recorded its smallest annual change since 1947 (see below). The S&P’s total return for 2011 was +2.11%. With all the fears about Europe and the Federal Reserve keeping interest rates incredibly low, long-term Treasuries had their best year since 2008 with a total return of 33%.1,2,3 CONSUMER CONFIDENCE BAROMETER RISES The Conference Board’s index of consumer confidence saw a big jump north in December, soaring 9.3 points to 64.5. Economists surveyed by Reuters had expected it to come in at 58.3.4 HOME SALE PRICES DOWN, HOME SALE CONTRACTS UP The good news? The National Association of Realtors said its pending home sales index reached a 19-month peak in November, moving to 100.1 for a 5.9% annual gain. The bad news? The October edition of the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index slipped 1.2% from its September level.4,5 HIGHS & LOWS IN KEY COMMODITIES FOR 2011 Gold lost 10.48% for the month but went +10.23% for the year, in contrast to copper (-22.73%) and silver (-9.77%). Crude oil advanced 8.15% in 2011, while retail gas prices rose 6.41%. Notable yearly dives were made by natural gas (-32.15%) and cotton (-36.69%). The U.S. Dollar Index gained 1.56% on the year.2   A MINOR RETREAT TO END THE YEAR All three major U.S. stock indices lost ground in the last trading week of 2011. The four-day performances across December 27-30: DJIA, -0.62% to 12,217.56; NASDAQ, -0.52% to 2,605.15; S&P 500, -0.61% to 1,257.60.1,6 THIS WEEK: The NYSE is closed Monday in celebration of the New Year’s Day holiday. Tuesday, the ISM manufacturing index for December is released, plus the most recent FOMC minutes. No major economic releases are scheduled on Wednesday. On Thursday, Monsanto, Amgen and Family Dollar announce earnings, ISM issues its December service sector PMI and new initial claims figures arrive. Friday brings the December jobs report from the Labor Department. % CHANGE 2011 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +5.53 +5.53 -0.39 +2.19 NASDAQ -1.80 -1.80 +1.57 +3.36 S&P 500 -0.003 -0.003 -2.27 +0.95 REAL YIELD 12/30 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS -0.07% 1.08% 2.41% 3.50% Sources: online.wsj.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 12/30/111,7,8,9 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
Please feel free to forward this article to family, friends or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our distribution list, please reply with their address. We will contact them first and request their permission to add them to our list.
This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. Citations. 1 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/12/30/data-points-u-s-markets-71/ [12/30/11] 2 – money.msn.com/market-news/post.aspx?post=7a929e98-4d99-44cb-98c9-a0ef1c3151c4 [12/30/11] 3 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/12/30/for-the-sp-500-2011-bascially-never-happened/ [12/30/11] 4 – www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/27/us-economy-idUSTRE7BE12S20111227 [12/27/11] 5 – www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2011/12/phs_nov [12/29/11] 6 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [12/30/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F29%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/30/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F29%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/30/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F29%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/30/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F31%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/30/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F31%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/30/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F31%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/30/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [12/30/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [12/30/11] 9 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

Weekly Economic Update December 26, 2011

WEEKLY QUOTE “Life is an adventure in forgiveness.” – Norman Cousins     WEEKLY TIP If 2012 is a year in which you start a business, remember three essentials to have on hand: an emergency fund, a year’s worth of operating capital and the support of your spouse or partner.     WEEKLY RIDDLE They are sometimes stomped on, yet they can also be very tasty and sweet. What are they?     Last week’s riddle: A man leaves home and makes three left turns. He comes home again and sees two masked men waiting for him, but he jogs straight toward them with a smile as others cheer. Why is this man so unafraid?     Last week’s answer: He is a baseball player who has just hit a home run. The masked men are the umpire and the other team’s catcher.	December 26, 2011   PAYROLL TAX HOLIDAY EXTENDED FOR 2 MONTHS Friday, President Obama signed an extension of the payroll tax cut lasting through February 29. The stopgap legislation also extends long-term unemployment benefits through that date and postpones a 27% reduction in Medicare payments to doctors. The federal government will pay for the extenders by having Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac hike guarantee fees on new mortgages, a cost that will be passed on to those buying or refinancing a home in 2012.1 GAINS IN HARD GOODS ORDERS, CONSUMER SPENDING November’s consumer spending increase was tiny: 0.1%. Wages advanced just 0.1% as well. However, last month also saw a 3.8% rise in durable goods orders (the best month for that indicator since July).2,3 IMPROVED HOME SALES, HOUSING STARTS The Census Bureau reported a 1.6% increase in new home purchases in November, with the new home inventory at its smallest since March 2006. Housing starts hit a 19-month peak in November, soaring 9.3% on the month. Existing home sales also improved notably in November, rising 4.0%; according to the National Association of Realtors, that was the best month since January.3 CONSUMERS FEELING MERRIER December’s final Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey came in at 69.9 compared with November’s final 64.1 mark. That also beat the 68.0 estimate forecast by economists Reuters had surveyed.4   A YEAR-END RALLY GETS ROLLING Stocks showed definite momentum last week. The 5-day performances: DJIA, +3.60% to 12,294.00: NASDAQ, +2.48% to 2,618.64; S&P 500, +3.74% to 1,265.33. At the close on Friday, oil settled at $99.68 on the NYMEX, gold closed at $1,606.00 on the COMEX, retail gasoline prices had fallen 2.15% in the past 30 days and natural gas futures were at lows unseen in four years.2,5 THIS WEEK: No major economic releases are on tap for Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Tuesday, the October edition of the S&P/Case-Shiller home price index arrives plus the Conference Board’s newest consumer confidence poll. Thursday, the National Association of Realtors issues its November report on pending home sales and we get the latest initial claims figures. % CHG Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +6.19 +6.23 -0.0008 +2.25 NASDAQ -1.29 -1.76 +1.81 +3.47 S&P 500 +0.61 +0.68 -2.06 +1.05 REAL YIELD 12/23 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS -0.04% 1.08% 2.35% 3.50% Sources: money.msn.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 12/23/112,6,7,8 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
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This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.Citations. 1 – money.cnn.com/2011/12/23/news/economy/payroll_tax_cut_deal/ [12/23/11] 2 – money.msn.com/market-news/post.aspx?post=ef94fe40-0c3a-4fc1-bbe6-e6f3f7345f37 [12/23/11] 3 – www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-23/sales-of-u-s-new-homes-in-november-rise-to-315-000-rate.html [12/23/11] 4 – www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/22/us-usa-economy-sentiment-idUSTRE7BL0YR20111222 [12/13/11] 5 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F23%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F23F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F23%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F22%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F22%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F22%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F24%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F24%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 6 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F24%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/23/11] 7 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [12/23/11] 7 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [12/23/11] 8 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

Weekly Economic Update 12-18-2011

WEEKLY QUOTE   “Comedy is simply a funny way of being serious.” – Peter Ustinov     WEEKLY TIP   About to do some holiday shopping? Try keeping your credit cards at home. The interest you save can be a financial gift to yourself.     WEEKLY RIDDLE   A man leaves home and makes three left turns. He comes home again and sees two masked men waiting for him, but he jogs straight toward them with a smile as others cheer. Why is this man so unafraid?     Last week’s riddle: Seven people stand in a square room which measures 30′ x 30′. Each one can see the entire room and everyone in it without making any physical movement (aside from eye movement). Where inside this room can you place an apple so that all but one person can see it?     Last week’s answer: Place the apple on one person’s head.	December 19, 2011   JOBLESS CLAIMS FALL TO 3½-YEAR LOW Last Thursday, the Labor Department announced that 366,000 Americans filed initial jobless claims in the week ending December 10, the lowest weekly figure since March 2008. This was a drop of 19,000 from the preceding week and refuted the expectations of some economists. This may be a sign that the jobless rate, currently at 8.6%, could be poised to fall further.1                                                                                    HAS INFLATION PEAKED? The federal government’s Consumer Price Index was flat in November after a 0.1% retreat in October. While core inflation rose 0.2% last month, the Federal Reserve now expects 1.7% inflation across 2012 compared to a projected 2.8% for 2011. Producer prices were up 0.3% in November; core PPI advanced 0.1%. The year-over-year rise in wholesale prices was 5.7%, the smallest 12-month gain since March.2,3   RETAIL SALES RISE 0.2% in NOVEMBER While many economists hoped for a bigger advance, the November increase marked the sixth straight monthly gain for the indicator. Lower gas prices may have left consumers with greater discretionary funds: on Friday, AAA said a gallon of regular unleaded averaged $3.25 nationally, 18.4% below a peak hit in early May.2,4   GOLD & OIL TAKE A HIT Gold lost a whopping 6.93% last week; oil fell 5.49%. Gold settled at $1,597.90 on the COMEX and oil closed Friday’s NYMEX trading day at $93.87.2   STOCKS PULL BACK Citing “the absence of a credible financial backstop” in the EU debt crisis, Fitch Ratings downgraded France Friday and placed the credit ratings of Spain and Italy on review. It was a wan note to end a rough week, as these numbers point out: DJIA, -2.61% to 11,866.39; S&P 500, -2.83% t0 1,219.66; NASDAQ, -3.46% to 2,555.33.2,5,6   THIS WEEK: No major U.S. economic releases are scheduled for Monday. On Tuesday, we learn about November housing starts and earnings reports arrive from Nike, Oracle, ConAgra and General Mills. Wednesday brings the NAR report on November existing home sales plus earnings out of CarMax, Bed Bath & Beyond and Walgreen’s. Thursday we get the final December consumer sentiment survey from the University of Michigan, the Conference Board’s LEI for November, initial claims numbers and the final 3Q GDP estimate from Washington. Friday brings three big reports: November new home sales, durable goods orders and consumer spending.   % CHG Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +2.50 +3.19 -0.93 +2.00 NASDAQ -3.68 -3.11 +0.80 +2.86 S&P 500 -3.02 -1.87 -2.91 +0.75 REAL YIELD 12/16 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS -0.05% 1.15% 2.29% 3.50%   Sources: money.msn.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 12/16/112,7,8,9 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
Please feel free to forward this article to family, friends or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our distribution list, please reply with their address. We will contact them first and request their permission to add them to our list.
This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.  Citations. 1 - money.cnn.com/2011/12/15/news/economy/unemployment_benefits/index.htm [12/15/11] 2 – money.msn.com/market-news/post.aspx?post=3a7b4ee5-c1fb-4eda-8bd3-901a162aeaed [12/16/11] 3 – www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-wholesale-prices-20111215,0,6933077.story [12/15/11] 4 – www.usatoday.com/money/industries/retail/story/2011-12-13/retail-sales-november/51866224/1 [12/13/11] 5 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [12/16/11] 6 – www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/world-business/france-rating-outlook-lowered-spain-italy-on-review-fitch-20111217-1ozhg.html [12/17/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F16%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F16F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F16%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F15%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F15%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F15%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F17%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F17%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F17%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/16/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [12/16/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [12/16/11] 9 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

Weekly Economic Update December 12, 2011

WEEKLY QUOTE“Education is the transmission of civilization.”– Will Durant     WEEKLY TIP In search of a sizable tax deduction? One idea: donate clothes, electronics and other household items to an IRS-approved charity before 2012 arrives. There are free online tools that can help you keep track of itemized deductions.     WEEKLY RIDDLE Seven people stand in a square room which measures 30′ x 30′. Each one can see the entire room and everyone in it without making any physical movement (aside from eye movement). Where inside this room can you place an apple so that all but one person can see it?     Last week’s riddle: Alexandra’s mom had four children. The first one was named May, the second was named June, and the third was named August. What was the fourth child’s name?     Last week’s answer: Alexandra.	December 12, 2011   CONSUMERS FEEL BETTER IN EARLY DECEMBER December’s initial University of Michigan consumer sentiment index is in, and the reading of 67.7 represents a six-month high. This is a 3.6% increase from the final November survey. The sub-index of consumer expectations (which some regard as an indicator of future consumer spending) improved from 55.4 to 61.1. In other positive news for households, retail gas prices hit a low unseen since February on December 5, according to the American Automobile Association, $3.27 was the national average for a gallon of regular unleaded.1 SERVICE SECTOR GROWTH MODERATES The 52.0 reading on the Institute for Supply Management’s November service sector index was the lowest since January 2010. Anything above 50 still denotes expansion, but the reading disappointed investors; economists polled by Reuters had forecast a 0.6% gain to 53.5.2 MORTGAGE APPS RISE ALMOST 13% The Mortgage Bankers Association reports that home loan demand hit a four-month peak in the week of November 28-December 2. According to Freddie Mac’s latest figures, the average rate on the 15-year FRM was 3.27% last week; interest rates on 30-year FRMs averaged 3.99%.3 GOLD & OIL RETREAT FOR THE WEEK Despite strong Friday gains, oil and gold both had down weeks. Oil futures slipped 1.54% across five days to $99.41 while gold futures lost $34.20 across the same time frame to settle at $1,712.80 per ounce on the COMEX December 9.4   RALLY REACHES TWO WEEKS A new EU fiscal treaty helped stocks push north Friday, (even with the UK opting out of the deal). Across December 5-9, the DJIA gained 1.37%, the S&P 500 0.88% and the NASDAQ 0.76%. At the close on Friday, the Dow was at 12,184.26, the S&P at 1,255.19, and the NASDAQ at 2,646.85.5,6 THIS WEEK: No major economic news is scheduled for Monday (at least not stateside). On Tuesday, the Census Bureau issues retail sales data for November, a Federal Reserve FOMC meeting occurs and we have 3Q earnings from Best Buy. Wednesday, an OPEC meeting concludes. Thursday, a plethora of earnings reports roll out (Adobe, FedEx, RIM, RiteAid, Discover and Accenture) and we also get the November PPI, the latest weekly jobless claims and a report on industrial output. Friday brings November’s CPI and a speech from ECB president Mario Draghi. % CHANGE Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +5.24 +7.16 -0.20 +2.28 NASDAQ -0.23 +1.15 +1.72 +3.29 S&P 500 -0.19 +1.80 -2.19 +1.01 REAL YIELD 12/9 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS 0.01% 1.09% 2.21% 3.50% Sources: cnbc.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 12/9/115,7,8,9 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
Please feel free to forward this article to family, friends or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our distribution list, please reply with their address. We will contact them first and request their permission to add them to our list.
This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.Citations.1 – www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/12/09/bloomberg_articlesLVY38O0UQVI9.DTL [12/9/11]2 – www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/05/us-usa-economy-services-idUSTRE7B415X20111205 [12/5/11] 3 – www.usatoday.com/money/economy/housing/story/2011-12-08/mortgage-rates-hover-near-lows/51740400/1 [12/8/11] 4 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/12/09/data-points-energy-metals-534/ [12/9/11] 5 – www.cnbc.com/id/45611888 [12/9/11] 6 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F9%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F9F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F9%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F8%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F8%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F8%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F10%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F10%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F10%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/9/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [12/9/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [12/9/11] 9 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

Weekly Economic Update December 5, 2011

WEEKLY QUOTE “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.” – Charles Spurgeon     WEEKLY TIP   Dropping a landline and just using your cell phone might save you as much as $300 annually. Using a broadband phone system might give you even greater savings.     WEEKLY RIDDLE   Alexandra’s mom had four children. The first one was named May, the second was named June, and the third was named August. What was the fourth child’s name?     Last week’s riddle: We all have one, and even though it often demands an answer, it offers no question. What is this device?     Last week’s answer: A phone.	December 5, 2011   JOBLESS RATE FALLS TO 8.6% In November, U.S. unemployment hit its lowest level since March 2009. November’s net job gain was 120,000. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics report showed that the majority of the new hires were made by retailers and temp agencies, this is still a sign of recovery. The underemployment rate fell to 15.6% from the prior 16.2%.1 SOME (MOSTLY) POSITIVE HOUSING NEWS Pending home sales soared 10.4% in October, the National Association of Realtors reported. New home sales also were up 1.3% in that month according to the Census Bureau. The September edition of the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index showed price gains in 14 of 20 metro markets; the index gained 0.1% in the third quarter, but was down 3.9% from a year ago.2   MANUFACTURING SECTOR EXPANDS The Institute for Supply Management’s manufacturing index showed sector growth in November. It came in at 52.7; economists polled by Briefing.com had forecast it would read 51.0.3 OIL TOPS $100 AGAIN, GOLD ADVANCES Crude prices ended the week at $100.96 on the NYMEX, going up 4.33% in five days. Gold futures had their best week in more than a month (+3.64%) and settled at $1747.00 Friday.4   S&P 500 GAINS 7.4% IN 5 DAYS The index had its best week since March 2009, going +7.39% to settle at 1,244.28 Friday. A coordinated central bank move to make cheaper dollar loans available to EU lenders set off a massive Dow rally Wednesday, a big factor behind great weeks for the DJIA (+7.01 to 12,019.42) and NASDAQ (+7.59% to 2,626.93).5,6   THIS WEEK: All eyes will be on Europe late next week, as there will be an EU summit and we could see notable developments regarding EU member fiscal policies and the future of the euro. Stateside, Monday brings the latest ISM report on the service sector, a look at October factory orders and earnings from Dollar General. Tuesday, Toll Brothers comes out with 3Q results. No major economic releases are slated for Wednesday. Thursday, the Bank of England and European Central Bank conclude policy meetings and Costco announces 3Q results. Friday, we have the conclusion of the EU summit meeting and the initial December consumer sentiment survey from the University of Michigan.   % CHANGE Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +3.82 +5.78 -0.29 +2.31 NASDAQ -0.98 +1.84 +1.77 +3.79 S&P 500 -1.06 +1.86 -2.18 +1.01 REAL YIELD 12/2 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS 0.00% 0.84% 2.10% 3.50%   Sources: cnbc.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 12/2/115,7,8,9 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
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This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.   Citations. 1 – www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-02/payroll-gains-speed-up-as-u-s-jobless-rate-drops-economy.html [12/2/11] 2 – www.thestreet.com/story/11325945/1/pending-home-sales-surge-in-october.html [11/30/11] 3 – www.briefing.com/Investor/Calendars/Economic/Releases/napm.htm [12/1/11] 4 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/12/02/data-points-energy-metals-533/ [12/2/11] 5 – www.cnbc.com/id/45523080 [12/2/11] 6 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F02%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F2F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F2%2F10&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F1%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F1%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F1%2F06&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=12%2F3%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=12%2F3%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 7 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=12%2F3%2F01&x=0&y=0 [12/2/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [12/2/11] 8 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [12/2/11] 9 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

Weekly Economic Update November 28, 2011

WEEKLY QUOTE   “People always call it luck when you’ve acted more sensibly than they have.” – Anne Tyler     WEEKLY TIP   Visiting the mall or the grocery store when you are depressed or hungry may encourage you to spend excessively and run up a tab you regret.     WEEKLY RIDDLE   We all have one, and even though it often demands an answer, it offers no question. What is this everyday item?     Last week’s  riddle: Gerald Ford was our 38th President, but he was actually the 37th man to take the job. Why was that?     Last week’s answer: Grover Cleveland held two non-consecutive terms of office – he was both the 22nd and 24th U.S. President.	November 28, 2011   A TINY INCREASE IN CONSUMER SPENDING Personal spending advanced by just 0.1% in October, the smallest gain in four months, as measured by the Commerce Department. Hopefully a strong Black Friday and Cyber Monday will make November a different story. In better news, personal incomes rose 0.4% last month, the best month for that statistic since March. America’s savings rate increased 0.2% to 3.5%.1 HOUSEHOLD CONFIDENCE RISES Americans seems to be feeling less pessimistic about the economy. The final November Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey came in at 64.1, much better than the final October mark of 60.9.1   HOME SALES, DURABLE GOODS ORDERS ENCOURAGE The National Association of Realtors reported a 1.4% increase in existing home sales in October and a 2.2% monthly reduction in the backlog of unsold properties, taking the inventory down to 8.0 months. Overall hard goods orders declined 0.7% in October but were up 0.7% with transportation orders factored out; economists polled by Bloomberg News had expected a 1.2% overall monthly retreat.2,3,4 GOLD DIPS UNDER $1,700 The precious metal slipped2.27% last week, and it is down 5.71% in the past two weeks; prices settled at 1,685.50 an ounce. Oil lost 0.92% last week on the NYMEX to settle at $96.77 at closing. 5   BUYERS CROWD THE MALLS, BUT NOT WALL STREET Stocks were hit hard during a short trading week by two developments: the failure of the “super committee” on Capitol Hill and a German bond auction at which 35% of the 10-year notes offered went unsold. The numbers for the week: DJIA, -4.78% to 11,231.78; S&P 500, -4.69% to 1,158.67; NASDAQ, -5.09% to 2,441.51.6   THIS WEEK: On Cyber Monday, the numbers on October new home sales come out. Tuesday, the latest S&P/Case-Shiller home price index is released along with the Conference Board’s November snapshot of U.S. consumer confidence; also, Tiffany issues 3Q results. Wednesday, we get data on October pending home sales from the National Association of Realtors and a new Federal Reserve Beige Book. Thursday brings the latest initial claims numbers, November’s ISM manufacturing index, data on auto sales from the Commerce Department and earnings from Kroger, Barnes & Noble and H&R Block. Friday, the October unemployment report is released and Big!Lots announces 3Q earnings.   % CHANGE Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA -2.99 +1.26 -1.71 +1.25 NASDAQ -7.97 -3.67 -0.15 +2.58 S&P 500 -7.87 -2.58 -3.46 +0.0001 REAL YIELD 11/25 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS 0.05% 0.75% 2.27% 3.50%   Sources: usatoday.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 11/25/117,8,9,10 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
Please feel free to forward this article to family, friends or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our distribution list, please reply with their address. We will contact them first and request their permission to add them to our list.
This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.   Citations. 1 – www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/23/as-holiday-season-begins-a-mixed-bag-of-economic-news// [11/23/11] 2 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [11/25/11] 3 – http://realtors.org/press_room/news_releases/2011/11/ehs_oct [11/21/11] 4 – www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/11/23/bloomberg_articlesLV4AM307SXKX.DTL [11/23/11] 5 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/11/25/data-points-energy-metals-532/ [11/25/11] 6 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/11/25/data-points-u-s-markets-66/ [11/25/11] 7 – www.usatoday.com/money/index [11/25/11] 8 – www.google.com/finance/historical?cid=983582&startdate=Nov+26%2C+2010&enddate=Nov+26%2C+2010&num=30 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F26F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F26%2F10&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F24%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F24%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F24%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F26%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F26%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F26%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/25/11] 9 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [11/25/11] 9 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [11/25/11] 10 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

Weekly Economic Update November 21, 2011

WEEKLY QUOTE   “Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself.” – Harvey Fierstein     WEEKLY TIP   If you pay your real estate taxes instead of your mortgage lender, you could pre-pay some 2012 taxes this year to qualify for a deduction on your 1040.     WEEKLY RIDDLE   Gerald Ford was our 38th President, but he was actually the 37th man to take the job. Why was that?     Last week’s riddle: A sudden noise startles a gopher, an owl and a skunk at the edge of a forest. The owl flies off and the gopher retreats into his burrow, but the skunk runs for the trees. How far can that skunk run into the forest?     Last week’s answer: Halfway; after he gets halfway in, he’s running out of the forest.	November 21, 2011 CONSUMER PRICES RETREAT IN OCTOBER For the first month since June, consumer inflation decreased. The biggest influence on the 0.1% decline in the Consumer Price Index? Falling retail gasoline prices. New car prices also saw their biggest one-month drop in nearly two years. Core CPI rose 0.1% in October; annualized inflation lessened to 3.5% with annualized core CPI at 2.1%. Producer prices declined last month as well, going -0.3% after a +0.8% September showing; core PPI was flat in October.1,2 RETAIL SALES, HOUSING STARTS, LEI ALL ENCOURAGE The Commerce Department said U.S. retail purchases increased by 0.5% in October – the fifth consecutive monthly gain. While overall housing starts declined 0.3% last month, single-family home construction improved by 5.1%. October housing permits were 17.7% above year-ago levels. The Conference Board’s index of leading economic indicators rose a striking 0.9% in October, with the boost in home construction a key factor.2,3,4,5   GOLD & OIL PRICES SLIDE In fact, gold had its roughest trading week since September, with prices pulling back 3.5% to $1,720.10 at Friday’s COMEX close. Oil prices also descended: crude settled at $97.41 per barrel on the NYMEX at week’s end.6,7 STOCKS LOSE SOME GROUND Investors weren’t buying much last week, what with one eye on Europe and another on the “super committee” impasse in Congress. The Dow, S&P 500 and NASDAQ all pulled back for the week as follows: DJIA, -2.94% to 11,796.23; S&P 500, -3.81% to 1,215.67; NASDAQ, -3.97% to 2,572.50.8   THIS WEEK: Monday, the National Association of Realtors tells us about October existing home sales and Hewlett-Packard and Tyson Foods issue 3Q results. Tuesday brings the second estimate of 3Q GDP, the most recent Federal Reserve policy meeting minutes and earnings from Campbell Soup and Hormel Foods. Wednesday is big indeed: the day before Thanksgiving is the deadline for the Congressional “super committee” to approve a deficit-trimming plan. Wednesday will also see the release of data on October consumer spending and October durable goods orders, plus the latest initial claims figures and the final University of Michigan consumer sentiment poll for the month. Thursday being Thanksgiving, all U.S. financial markets will be closed. This Friday will be Black Friday, of course; the NYSE will have a shortened trading day.   % CHANGE Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +1.89 +5.50 -0.89 +1.82 NASDAQ -3.03 +2.31 +1.04 +3.30 S&P 500 -3.34 +1.59 -2.65 +0.56 REAL YIELD 11/18 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS 0.05% 0.83% 2.33% 3.50%   Sources: cnbc.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 11/18/118,9,10,11 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
Please feel free to forward this article to family, friends or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our distribution list, please reply with their address. We will contact them first and request their permission to add them to our list.
This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.   Citations. 1 – www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9R1SFE00.htm [11/16/11] 2 – www.nytimes.com/2011/18/16/business/economy/us-retail-sales-rose-0-5-in-october.html [11/16/11] 3 – www.latimes.com/business/realestate/la-fi-housing-starts-20111118,0,4792319.story [11/17/11] 4 – www.dailyfinance.com/2011/18/18/index-of-leading-economic-indicators-rises/ [11/18/11] 5 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [11/18/11] 6 – www.cnbc.com/id/45346193 [11/18/11] 7 – www.cnbc.com/id/45346195 [11/18/11] 8 – www.cnbc.com/id/45354584 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F18%2F10&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F18F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F18%2F10&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F17%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F17%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F17%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F19%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F19%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 9 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F19%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/18/11] 10 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [11/18/11] 10 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [11/18/11] 11 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]

 

Weekly Economic Update November 14, 2011

WEEKLY QUOTE “The trust of the innocent is the liar’s most useful tool.” – Stephen King     WEEKLY TIP Income from stock options and bonuses could put you into a higher tax bracket for 2011. If that is a problem, consider deferring that income until 2012.     WEEKLY RIDDLE A sudden noise startles a gopher, an owl and a skunk at the edge of a forest. The owl flies off and the gopher retreats into his burrow, but the skunk runs for the trees. How far can that skunk run into the forest?     Last week’s riddle: What can run but never walks, has a mouth but never eats, has a head but never thinks, and has a bed but never sleeps?     Last week’s answer: A river.	November 14, 2011   ACTIONS in GREECE & ITALY CALM MARKETS Global investors seemed reassured at the end of last week by developments in the European Union. By Friday, Greek prime minister George Papandreou had stepped down; Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi’s resignation was at hand. Greek prime minister designate Lucas Papademos and a new coalition government will now be charged with implementing austerity cuts as Greece accepts the EU’s latest €130 billion aid package. Italy’s senate passed new economic reforms at the end of the week aimed at reducing its sovereign debt. Italy’s treasury was also able to sell €5 billion of one-year notes , albeit at 6.09% interest.1,2 A BIG REBOUND IN CONSUMER CONFIDENCE The preliminary November consumer sentiment index from the University of Michigan was a nice surprise. It came in at 64.2; far better than the final mark of 60.9 for October and the 61.3 consensus forecast of economists polled by Briefing.com. The reading hasn’t been this high since June. The future expectations sub-index improved to 56.2 from the previous 51.8.3   OIL PUSHES TOWARD $100 AGAIN On Veterans Day, oil futures settled at $98.99 on the NYMEX after a +5.02% week that saw prices rise $3.25 across Thursday and Friday. Gold prices posted a weekly gain as well: the precious metal gained 1.83% on the COMEX for the week, and that brought its 3-week advance to 9.32%.4 STRONG FRIDAY PUTS DOW BACK IN THE BLACK The DJIA climbed 260 points on Friday after rising 113 points on Thursday, almost offsetting Wednesday’s 389-point descent. That left it at +4.98% YTD. Last week’s performances: DJIA, +1.42% to 12,153.68; S&P 500, +0.85% to 1,263.85; NASDAQ, -0.28% to 2,678.75.5,6,7   THIS WEEK: Key economic releases will be complemented by earnings from the big boxes. Monday, Lowe’s, Urban Outfitters and JCPenney issue 3Q results. On Tuesday, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Staples, Dell and Beazer Homes come out with earnings, and the October PPI arrives along with October’s retail sales report from the Census Bureau. Wednesday, the October CPI appears along with data on October industrial output; 3Q results roll in from Target and Abercrombie & Fitch. Thursday brings earnings from Ross Stores, Sears, Dollar Tree, GameStop and GAP, the latest initial claims figures and October’s housing starts report. Friday, Heinz announces 3Q results, EU finance ministers meet and the Conference Board offers its October leading indicator index.   % CHANGE Y-T-D 1-YR CHG 5-YR AVG 10-YR AVG DJIA +4.98 +7.72 +0.00075 +2.72 NASDAQ +0.98 +4.82 +2.42 +4.56 S&P 500 +0.49 +4.15 -1.70 +1.30 REAL YIELD 11/11 RATE 1 YR AGO 5 YRS AGO 10 YRS AGO 10 YR TIPS -0.04% 0.71% 2.25% 3.50%   Sources: cnbc.com, bigcharts.com, treasury.gov, treasurydirect.gov – 11/11/117,8,9,10 Indices are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. These returns do not include dividends.
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This material was prepared by MarketingLibrary.Net Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. Marketing Library.Net Inc. is not affiliated with any broker or brokerage firm that may be providing this information to you. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index of 30 actively traded blue-chip stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged, market-weighted index of all over-the-counter common stocks traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. NYSE Group, Inc. (NYSE:NYX) operates two securities exchanges: the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and NYSE Arca (formerly known as the Archipelago Exchange, or ArcaEx®, and the Pacific Exchange). NYSE Group is a leading provider of securities listing, trading and market data products and services. The New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc. (NYMEX) is the world’s largest physical commodity futures exchange and the preeminent trading forum for energy and precious metals, with trading conducted through two divisions – the NYMEX Division, home to the energy, platinum, and palladium markets, and the COMEX Division, on which all other metals trade. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic instability and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance data is historical and not indicative of future results. Market indices discussed are unmanaged. Investors cannot invest in unmanaged indices. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional.   Citations. 1 – www.cnbc.com/id/45252039/ [11/11/11] 2 – www.cnbc.com/id/45251641/ [11/11/11] 3 – briefing.com/Investor/Calendars/Economic/Releases/mich.htm [11/11/11] 4 – blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/11/11/data-points-energy-metals-530/ [11/11/11] 5 – montoyaregistry.com/Financial-Market.aspx?financial-market=retirement-investment-funds&category=3 [11/11/11] 6 – money.cnn.com/data/markets/dow/ [11/11/11] 7 – www.cnbc.com/id/45255063 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F11%2F10&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F11F2%2F10&x=10&y=18 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F11%2F10&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F10%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F10%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F10%2F06&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=DJIA&closeDate=11%2F12%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=COMP&closeDate=11%2F12%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 8 – bigcharts.marketwatch.com/historical/default.asp?symb=SPX&closeDate=11%2F12%2F01&x=0&y=0 [11/11/11] 9 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyield [11/11/11] 9 – treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=realyieldAll [11/11/11] 10 – treasurydirect.gov/instit/annceresult/press/preanre/2001/ofm71101.pdf [7/11/01]