COMPANIES: INDUSTRIES:

Social media networks have created a new sphere for financial insiders to engage in stealth activities

Will the Facebook IPO add jobs, make investors phenomenally wealthy, and be the biggest offering in history? Don't bet on it

Luxury Retailer Stocks Primed for Holidays

Luxury retailers will likely continue to please their stockholders this holiday season, just as they have throughout much of the economic downturn. It is one way that an average investor can benefit from spending patterns of the well-to-do

Why You Should Invest in 'Global Gorillas'

Global large caps offer a fairly conservative approach to investing in booming emerging markets

How Dividend Payers Boost Returns and Reduce Risk

With bond yields so low, dividend-paying stocks can be a good alternative for income-seeking investors

How One Amateur Investor Spots Stocks Before Wall Street

Do amateur investors like you have any advantages over professionals? Perhaps ...

Green Technology Stocks Take Their Licks But Keep on Ticking

Taking advantage of greatly reduced stock prices is a tricky business. One strategy is to find an investment area so certain to grow that it will be around long after market traumas subside. Green investing, which offers the added potential of innovative companies getting snapped up by bigger firms, could be one of those areas

Former Iceland Prime Minister On Trial Over Banking Sector Collapse

Former Icelandic prime minister Geir Haarde termed as 'farce' the barrage of charges he faces as the first day of his trial began in connection with the collapse of Iceland's banking sector at the height of the 2008 global financial crisis

Why There's a Disconnect Between Stocks and the Economy

While the U.S. economy is saddled with sluggish growth, a near double-digit unemployment rate, and a housing market plagued by foreclosures and falling prices, the stock market has been booming since hitting bottom in March 2009

Investors Have Their Heads in Cloud Computing

The global cloud-computing market is expected to reach $241 billion in 2020, up from $41 billion in 2010, according to Forrester Research. That long-term potential is reflected in the high-flying stocks of companies actively involved in the concept

5 Factors That Drive Stock Prices

When deciding how to allocate your stock portfolio to different regions of the world, there are many factors investors should consider. A stock market's valuation, the country's expected economic growth, and the actions of its central bank all play a role. Here are five factors that drive stock prices

Health Care a Sound Investment Despite Slow Economy and Reform

Health care investing is making a comeback in 2011. The industry has shaken off irrational fears about reform and refocused on the opportunities that an aging population provides. Compared to industries more closely tied to the economy, it isn't scary at all anymore

Home Depot: Home Improvement Mecca Struggles to Stay Steady

The results of the world's largest home-improvement specialty retailer are tied to consumers' willingness to buy for their homes and to the operating efficiency of the company. The question for stock investors is whether both factors will be strong enough to provide robust returns going forward

Bank of America to Pay $8.5B in Mortgage-backed Security Dispute

Bank of America on announced it has agreed to pay $8.5 billion settle a dispute with investors who lost money on mortgage-backed securities

Google Launches New Social Networking Service in Already Crowded Market

Search engine company Google will launch a new social networking service in an apparent bid to compete with Facebook

The Most Successful Companies Stay Relevant

Staying relevant is never easy for a company or its long-suffering investors. Firms and their products can go in and out of style -- and out of profitability, as well. Selecting those that will prosper year after year through good and bad times while rewarding their shareholders is an accomplishment

5 Ominous Signs for Stock Investors

Although the S&P is still up by about 5 percent so far this year, the index has dropped 3 percent so far during May. Market watchers point to a number of reasons why stocks could head lower, including the end of the Federal Reserve's highly controversial second round of quantitative easing, known as 'QE2.' Here are five signs that don't bode well for stocks

Eliot Spitzer's 10 Rules To Fixing the Economy and Corporate Mismanagement

In a new and short book, former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer, who made a name for himself attacking corporations while New York's attorney general, says Washington didn't go far enough to reform Wall Street and corporate misnamagement during the 2008-2009 bank bailouts. Here's Spitzer's 10 rules to fixing the economy and corporate mismanagement

How to Find Value Stocks

For most investors, a market crash is a minor disaster. For value investors, who seek out shares in undervalued companies, it's hog heaven. Here are a few tips for identifying value stocks

Energy and Construction Stocks Looking Good -- For Now

While there are solid prospects for stocks of engineering and construction firms, they won't come from efforts to rebuild a devastated Japan. The primary drivers will be high oil prices, general economic revival and U.S. government spending programs. Oil prices are important because international and national oil companies are the top customers for engineering and construction services

High-priced Stocks Worth the Money?

How much would you pay for the services of Warren Buffett, Larry Page, Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos? Quite a bit, apparently. Those CEOs of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Google Inc., Apple Inc. and Amazon.com Inc. lead companies that command some of the highest individual stock prices

A Closer Look at Restaurant Stocks

The restaurant industry, hit hard by recession and high unemployment, is seeing less investor appetite for its stocks. As in any severe shakeout, some types of restaurants and individual brands have used the opportunity to re-examine and perfect their businesses. They've shown gains in an industry still offering investment opportunities in 2011

Adobe Overcomes Obstacles to Continue Its Rise

Coming off a lackluster year, this pioneering software company that is famous for its Flash, Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobat products should have a better 2011.

Where to Find the Dividends Now

Dividend-paying stocks make up the core of many income-focused investors' stock portfolios. What better way to woo investors than by cutting them a periodic check for investing in the stock of their company?

The Case for (and Against) European Stocks

The dark cloud of the sovereign debt crisis has been hanging over the European stock markets for months. After taking bailouts. Despite the gloomy outlook for some of these debt-ridden countries, other areas of Europe look promising for investors in 2011.

Why Big U.S. Stocks Look Like a Good Bet

After years of lackluster stock-market returns -- which many dubbed a 'lost' decade -- 2011 is shaping up to be a good year for large-cap U.S. stocks. Fears of a double-dip recession have mostly subsided, the economy is expanding again, and the S&P 500 has almost doubled since its March 2009 low. Here are six reasons large-cap U.S. stocks look like a good bet

Hybrids, Electrics and Overseas Growth Pushing Ford Motor

Prospects are good for Ford, although the auto industry is cyclical, meeting higher fuel standards is expensive, and labor will look to gain from the company's improved fortunes

Consumer Staples Positioned Well for the Recovery

Companies that make consumer staples tend to excel as consumers gain confidence and begin to treat themselves to discretionary items whose purchase didn't seem pressing in the midst of an economic downturn. Beauty products are an example of goods that usually gain in sales as the economy perks up. Here's stock recommendations based on the belief that consumer discretionary activity will gradually be picking up speed

Cash Rich Companies to Watch in 2011

Cash-rich companies are in excellent financial position to increase their dividends, buy back their own shares, make prudent acquisitions of weaker competitors, and invest in research and development. Their stock could also be worth more than the price indicates because so much money is stashed in the company safe. Here's a closer look at some famous 'big dogs' in cash

Google's Growth Could Slow But Still a Solid Buy

Google's future success depends on not only fending off competition in global search, but in introducing profitable new lines of business. It is a stretch to expect the same dramatic results it has enjoyed in its primary business. Some recent events reflect the competitive landscape

Growth Versus Value Investing in 2011

Growth versus value investing is shaping up to be a horse race in 2011. While growth stocks had maintained the lead throughout much of 2010, the performance margin between the two narrowed later in the year

Big Tobacco Leader Altria Holding Steady Despite Worries

Much depends on the continued popularity of Altria's famous Marlboro cigarette brand, which accounts for more than two-thirds of the Altria's operating income. Despite ongoing worries, however, Altria remains a powerful company that retains its investment appeal based on its commanding industry position, cash flow and dividends

Fed Moves Boost Stock Returns

Investors may have Ben Bernanke to thank for the rally that's taking place in the stock market. Bloomberg recently compiled numbers that show that both rounds of quantitative easing -- the first round began in late 2008 and the second in November -- had a positive impact on stocks

Why You Should Buy Stocks That Pay Dividends

One move you might make in preparation is to shift part of your bond portfolio into dividend-paying stocks. While stocks are inherently riskier than bonds, these shares are generally less volatile than other types of stocks and in many cases offer income-hungry investors attractive yields relative to bonds

Investors Ease Back Into Stocks

Retail mutual fund investors may finally be changing their ways. After five straight months of outflows, stock funds saw inflows in October, according to the Investment Company Institute. Investors poured $441 million into stock funds in October, after pulling out almost $11 billion in September

Experts Offer Advice on Investing in 2011

How would you invest $10,000 in the coming year? We pose that question annually to a panel of investment experts. This year's group is upbeat about investment prospects for 2011, with stocks considered a better bet than bonds. Yet everyone is spreading their selections around as much as possible

Airline Stocks Take Off in 2010

The skies are always turbulent for investors in airline stocks, whether due to oil prices, economic trends, fare wars or labor union issues. Yet 2010 has been the start of something big in terms of financial success, with many airline stocks strong performers. The question is how long surprisingly good times will last

Retailer Stock Prospects Look Rosier This Year

Bling, sports apparel, electronics and plastic gift cards are expected to be the most desirable presents in this cautious 2010 holiday shopping season. Here's how to determine if favored gifts will translate into strong performances of the stocks of retailers that sell them

Large Cap Stocks Move Up in 2010

Large-cap stocks, low in price but high in exposure to rapidly-growing international markets, appear poised for a comeback. Of course, not all big companies are great. A good one must have strong management, understanding of its markets and ability to make money in both good and tough times. Here's a group of large cap stocks that meet the criteria

Global Financial Services Stocks Revive

With earnings and stock prices of global financial services companies rising, the sector once again is looking like a viable investment for a well-rounded portfolio. Here's some funds, ETFs and individual stocks worth investigating

6 Reasons to Buy Dividend-Paying Stocks

While stocks are always going to be riskier than bonds, it's possible to invest more conservatively in the stock market by buying dividend-paying stocks, which can provide a cushion for investors during tough times. Here are six reasons to consider adding dividend-paying stocks to your portfolio.

Financial Reform Legislation Gives Shareholders More Say

Financial reform seems certain to usher in rules that shareholder advocates have been trying to win for decades as a way to rein in runaway executive pay and make corporate boards more responsive to shareholders.

Many 'Wide Moat' Companies Losing Competitive Advantage

Every company is looking over its shoulder these days. The number of firms with a 'wide moat' that presents an almost insurmountable obstacle to potential competitors has been declining. Rapid-fire innovation, technology and globalization mean challengers can arise from almost anywhere. Competitive advantage these days is difficult to obtain

Utility Stocks: Trade Flash for Dependable Payouts

The utility stock has been a 'no-brainer' investment, an obvious choice of those foraging around to find greater income. In 2010, the prospects of this traditional vehicle may improve somewhat. Exciting, utilities stocks are not. Yet conservative and retired investors usually covet utilities not for any flash, but for steady dividends

Income Investors Face Challenges as Economy Shifts

The search for high yields presents a quandary for income investors. If interest rates rise in the future, the value of high-yield, longer-term bonds bought now will decline. But if a high-dividend-paying stock is chosen, the investor needs to be relatively sure that today's impressive dividend is here to stay. Here's high-quality large-cap companies with predictable futures

Small-Cap Stocks Poised For Big Comeback

Consider the upbeat scenario: An improved economy reinvigorates consumers, who run out to buy pairs of new shoes. While that is an oversimplified example of cause and effect, it depicts the basic logic behind some of the good prospects for small-cap stocks. They were hammered in 2008, regained momentum in 2009 and show promise for 2010 based on hopes of a better economy

Trend-Setting Companies Target Hip Young Consumers

The ability to keep up with often-fickle trends is a worthy skill that many companies have failed miserably trying to master. Those that have done it best often command top dollar for their shares, but their likelihood of continued success could make them worth their premium price.

Growth Vs. Value Investing: 2010 Promises to be An Exciting Year

The battle of growth versus value investing rages on in 2010. These distinct investment personalities move in cycles, one dominating for a period before being overtaken by the other. And then it starts all over again. Here's a look at potential growth and value investments.

Economic Gale Winds Have Made Investing Tough

Some bold calls made during the market plummet of 2008 proved highly successful and an examination of the logic behind them can be helpful for the future.

Tech Trauma Should Ease in 2010 As Demand Climbs

Tech trauma is a modern investor ailment. While the patient is aware that technology stocks are symbolic of the near- and long-term promise of the economy, their erratic movement can spike blood pressure beyond normal limits. The prescription for 2010 therefore requires tech stocks compatible with needs of a recovering business world

New Economic, Market Trends Merit New Approach to Once Shunned Investments

Investors seeking industries they can count on in 2010 will have to think outside the box. New economic and market trends require a reexamination of previously-avoided groups, such as regional banks, insurers, shipping companies, utilities, consumer staples firms and auto component companies. All could take a turn for the better in the coming year.

Mid-Cap Stocks Have Reigned in 2009

Mid-cap stocks have been anything but middling in 2009. They've been the sweet spot for investors still leery of the large-cap stocks that burned them in the recent past. Too many big-name companies also seem to be offering only downsizing as a strategy these days.

Investing - Alcohol, Tobacco Stocks Are Recession-Resistant, Not Recession-Proof

Alcohol and tobacco will always be controversial investments for obvious reasons, yet they tend to weather recession better than many other stock groups. Credit their massive cash flow from loyal repeat customers for a resiliency that overshadows their dubious reputations. No industry, however, can turn a blind eye to 2009 economic trends.

Despite Risks, Some See Opportunities in Speculative Areas of the Market

At a time when so many "sure" investments have let everyone down, speculative investing sounds like simply throwing money down the drain. Shell-shocked investors, wishing no medals for bravery, have contented themselves with safer, low-yield choices.

A Strategy for Stocks? Look Inward First

Uncomfortable putting your hard-earned money in stocks -- even after the recent run-up that has helped recover a portion of the last year's losses?

Strength of Technology Stocks Surprises

Technology is the surprise investment leader this year.

Science and technology stock funds are up 13 percent this year, versus the 2 percent decline of the average diversified stock fund, according to Lipper Inc. Among the tech-firm royalty, Apple Inc. (AAPL) stock is up 40 percent this year, IBM Corp. (IBM) up 22 percent and Google Inc. (GOOG) up 21 percent.