The recent turmaoil seen in Euro and EU due to Greece and its escalating fiscal crisis is just the tip of the iceberg.
If an economy which is just 2% of the Eurozone and not balancing its budget can rattle the entire Eurozone and bring Euro to a near collapse - it only shows the fragile nature of the entity called Euro and how structurally weak and thoughtless it is.
We have mentioned here several times i the past how Euro is structured to benefit Germany and France and maybe Italy at the expense of the weaker economies.
The weaklings and the rules to stick to the Union makes it easy for the Bond Vigilantes to manipulate currencies and interst rates.
From Moodys to Fitch and other rating agencies - who have absolutely no clue as to what happens in a local economy try to rattle the credit market by their upgrades and downgrades - and brings an entire zone to its knees.
This is just an indication of how delicate the internet global economy has become and how inadequate the current agencies and thought leaders are in trying to define the rules for the trade!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Hot Summers in Freezing Davos!
Summers raised a warning flag from Davos - responding to the upside surprise to the better than expected GDP growth in USA.
With Financial Regulation on tap in the midst of a lost NBR 60 - the Administration is more agressive in its fight againt Wall Street.
With Geithner and Bernanke uncertainity fading in the backdrop - it will be interesting to see how the Federal reserve and the White House handle the exit policies without disrupting the cart.
During the crisis the Fixed Income players - both private and Foreign States managed to have an upper hand. The next couple of quarters if the Federal Reserve and the Administration wants to win the War against the Fixed Income players - who are very brutal and powerful & are desperately needed in thesse times of increasing dependence of their support for the expanding Government Spending, it is imperative that Mr Summers and the Administration does not push Wall Street and the trading Gamblers down the toilet - as doing such an act will only strengthen the hands of the Fixed Income Players resulting in a run on the US treasury!
With Financial Regulation on tap in the midst of a lost NBR 60 - the Administration is more agressive in its fight againt Wall Street.
With Geithner and Bernanke uncertainity fading in the backdrop - it will be interesting to see how the Federal reserve and the White House handle the exit policies without disrupting the cart.
During the crisis the Fixed Income players - both private and Foreign States managed to have an upper hand. The next couple of quarters if the Federal Reserve and the Administration wants to win the War against the Fixed Income players - who are very brutal and powerful & are desperately needed in thesse times of increasing dependence of their support for the expanding Government Spending, it is imperative that Mr Summers and the Administration does not push Wall Street and the trading Gamblers down the toilet - as doing such an act will only strengthen the hands of the Fixed Income Players resulting in a run on the US treasury!
US Unemployment to reach 7.2 end of 2010
Optimism or just throwing a dart in the dark?
Can the gut feeling be more accurate than the economic forecasts and continualy morphing Economists & market movers?
With government waging war at the wrong set of manipulators would this market support an expansionary labor market?
With Technology leading the way Is America ready to start exporting? With renewable and Manufacturing contributing for local and global economy growth story; and less conflicts between global policy makers contributing to a stable currency environment?
Can the Fed easing its pedal on QE and the Governement stop bailing out in this non-supportivecredit market lead to an unpredicatable market stability?
Is it necessary that the answers to the above have to be a resounding YES to support the labor market?
The answers to the above is YES!
More than that at the end of the year no matter what the maret manipulators do - be it the credit market hawks and wannabes or the Wall Street Gamblers - the labor market wll start expanding with unemployment coming down to 7.2%
Can the gut feeling be more accurate than the economic forecasts and continualy morphing Economists & market movers?
With government waging war at the wrong set of manipulators would this market support an expansionary labor market?
With Technology leading the way Is America ready to start exporting? With renewable and Manufacturing contributing for local and global economy growth story; and less conflicts between global policy makers contributing to a stable currency environment?
Can the Fed easing its pedal on QE and the Governement stop bailing out in this non-supportivecredit market lead to an unpredicatable market stability?
Is it necessary that the answers to the above have to be a resounding YES to support the labor market?
The answers to the above is YES!
More than that at the end of the year no matter what the maret manipulators do - be it the credit market hawks and wannabes or the Wall Street Gamblers - the labor market wll start expanding with unemployment coming down to 7.2%
Pandit's Citigroup - time to backup and load them!
Citigroup and Mr Pandit has been shoved into the Dog House for a longer period compared to his peers from JP Morgan , Bank of America and Wells Fargo.
As the developing & emerging markets start to migrate towards higher growth period - the bank that is well positioned to capitaize is Citigroup.
As a recent report revealed Citigroup is the only Bank that has the techology and reach to manage diverse and distributed commercial transactions for immmediate multiple currency transactions - globally and more Government agencies and Multinationals rely on Citigroup for their global reach and needs.
Unlike other Retail banking brands Citigroup commands a premium name in every market that it is in Outside USA- helpin git to attract talents and premium clients without too much of acquisition cost.
With Mr Pandit hiding behing the sceen for the better part of his new job - has chosen Davos to step out into the Cold & brutal audience!
All these bde well for Citigroup going forward- It has limited downside & a tremendous upside for a long term investment.
As the developing & emerging markets start to migrate towards higher growth period - the bank that is well positioned to capitaize is Citigroup.
As a recent report revealed Citigroup is the only Bank that has the techology and reach to manage diverse and distributed commercial transactions for immmediate multiple currency transactions - globally and more Government agencies and Multinationals rely on Citigroup for their global reach and needs.
Unlike other Retail banking brands Citigroup commands a premium name in every market that it is in Outside USA- helpin git to attract talents and premium clients without too much of acquisition cost.
With Mr Pandit hiding behing the sceen for the better part of his new job - has chosen Davos to step out into the Cold & brutal audience!
All these bde well for Citigroup going forward- It has limited downside & a tremendous upside for a long term investment.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Supreme Court Decision on Corporate Campaign Sponsorship!
Coming of the most expensive election year when the whole world was in the middle of a new Catastrophic Financial melt down- the decision by Supreme Court on Corporate sponsorship on election is stirring up a storm of its own.
Mr Obama raised over $750 Million for the campaign - Even Senator McCAin raised over $250 Million for his own campaign.
The likes of George Soros and Rupert Murdoch spent millions directly & otherwise to support their personal cause and tried to influence the outcome.
Money and Support finds its way to the party and candidate no matter what the law is or rules are.
It is amazing to know that a $200k plus job attracts over a Billion dollars!
If nothing else we might have a Banner from Nike in the Capitol Hill with a commercial break for Pepsi - between meaningless debates, And may be the dress code will be a bit more colorful & appealing with GM and Toyota vying for the coveted wardrobe for the party - Unless of course the next NFL ruling from Supreme Court changes the scope of branding and licensing of local seat!
May Be, Just May Be - this decision by the Supreme court will bring more legitimate transparency to where the money is coming- without looking for loop holes or carpets to hide!
Mr Obama raised over $750 Million for the campaign - Even Senator McCAin raised over $250 Million for his own campaign.
The likes of George Soros and Rupert Murdoch spent millions directly & otherwise to support their personal cause and tried to influence the outcome.
Money and Support finds its way to the party and candidate no matter what the law is or rules are.
It is amazing to know that a $200k plus job attracts over a Billion dollars!
If nothing else we might have a Banner from Nike in the Capitol Hill with a commercial break for Pepsi - between meaningless debates, And may be the dress code will be a bit more colorful & appealing with GM and Toyota vying for the coveted wardrobe for the party - Unless of course the next NFL ruling from Supreme Court changes the scope of branding and licensing of local seat!
May Be, Just May Be - this decision by the Supreme court will bring more legitimate transparency to where the money is coming- without looking for loop holes or carpets to hide!
Toyota - Please bring Transparency to consumers!
8 Million cars recalled and the blame is still hunting for a home!
It is a shame to watch interview after interview on TVs - where they vehemently deny what is happening to the quality and started pointing to GM and other cars when when asked about why Toyota failed to acknowledge the problem which firt surface over two years back.
We have pointed in one of our earlier article talking about Ameican Automotve Industry and how GM and Ford are twice the value dollar for dollar and the Management of Detroit is mroe consumer aware and conscious than the likes of Hondas and Toyotas.
The current episode of Toyota's late reaction to a serious problem is just one such incidence.
Competition is great and open market capitalism always provides what the market can absorb and support- and this event may not bring down Toyota or its market conviction about its product - However this will open up the closed eyes of the Media and Consumers and make them slowly understand the better products that Detroit brings to the market!
It is a shame to watch interview after interview on TVs - where they vehemently deny what is happening to the quality and started pointing to GM and other cars when when asked about why Toyota failed to acknowledge the problem which firt surface over two years back.
We have pointed in one of our earlier article talking about Ameican Automotve Industry and how GM and Ford are twice the value dollar for dollar and the Management of Detroit is mroe consumer aware and conscious than the likes of Hondas and Toyotas.
The current episode of Toyota's late reaction to a serious problem is just one such incidence.
Competition is great and open market capitalism always provides what the market can absorb and support- and this event may not bring down Toyota or its market conviction about its product - However this will open up the closed eyes of the Media and Consumers and make them slowly understand the better products that Detroit brings to the market!
Bernanke Fiddled while the Market was on Fire!
Interesting week!
A congressman talking about Financial Melt down and comparing it to an elaborate interception in the final minutes with a Monday night quarterbacking analogy to the AIG bailout: First of all - Are we admitting that its an Interception?
Geithner defending his image and intelligence in front of a live global audience - talks about Fed being the Only Fire Station in town during the Financial Meltdown & I Guess he is talking about Ben being the Sheriff in town?
Mr Paulson - the Man with Bazooka - talking about Armageddon if they didn't do what they did with the Bazooka - all to defend his Golden legacy & defending the new Sheriff in Town & his side kick!
And now the Sheriff fiddling when there was a towering Inferno...from Mr Shelby!
May be we don't need another Avatar to make it more FULL & RICH in experience!
From Greenspan to PIMCO everyone supporting the sheriff! And ofcourse a resounding support for the interception from the likes of Mr Buffet & the other Wall Street beneficiaries!
Whether Geithner gets fired or Bernanke get a job with the Germans like Mr Greenspan - one thing is clear - it certainly is entertaining to watch Monday Night Bickering!
A congressman talking about Financial Melt down and comparing it to an elaborate interception in the final minutes with a Monday night quarterbacking analogy to the AIG bailout: First of all - Are we admitting that its an Interception?
Geithner defending his image and intelligence in front of a live global audience - talks about Fed being the Only Fire Station in town during the Financial Meltdown & I Guess he is talking about Ben being the Sheriff in town?
Mr Paulson - the Man with Bazooka - talking about Armageddon if they didn't do what they did with the Bazooka - all to defend his Golden legacy & defending the new Sheriff in Town & his side kick!
And now the Sheriff fiddling when there was a towering Inferno...from Mr Shelby!
May be we don't need another Avatar to make it more FULL & RICH in experience!
From Greenspan to PIMCO everyone supporting the sheriff! And ofcourse a resounding support for the interception from the likes of Mr Buffet & the other Wall Street beneficiaries!
Whether Geithner gets fired or Bernanke get a job with the Germans like Mr Greenspan - one thing is clear - it certainly is entertaining to watch Monday Night Bickering!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Its Davos Time Again!
Its Davos time again!
People who made a killing the last couple of years - be it via Bonus or pure betting all gather to show their might! And to tell the rest of the world what to do to prevent the next meltdown!
The message is the same - the great divide between the Soros and the Roubini types from the rest.
Ironically the noise from the fixed income is more loud this time around - from the likes of PIMCO.....betting against the Developed economies. For a change we see Japan in the wrong side - and it appears that US might get out of the Dog house - atleast temporarily!
With S&P downgrading and threatening Japan - after twenty years of so called lost decades - PIMCO betting agaist Japan - Maybe its time to look into Japan!
People who made a killing the last couple of years - be it via Bonus or pure betting all gather to show their might! And to tell the rest of the world what to do to prevent the next meltdown!
The message is the same - the great divide between the Soros and the Roubini types from the rest.
Ironically the noise from the fixed income is more loud this time around - from the likes of PIMCO.....betting against the Developed economies. For a change we see Japan in the wrong side - and it appears that US might get out of the Dog house - atleast temporarily!
With S&P downgrading and threatening Japan - after twenty years of so called lost decades - PIMCO betting agaist Japan - Maybe its time to look into Japan!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Is Amazon a Steal at this price?
Looking at all teh tech numbers and looking back at the Holiday season I think the market has punished Amzon for all the wrong reasons - including a pending threat from Apple's new i-Whatever!
With a steep correction in the last couple of weeks - Amazon looks very cheap, atleast from where the earnings will be compared to etimates.
This past Holiday season Amazon enjoyed the best season for Kindle! The best selling gift from Amazon - thats a major achievement given what else one can buy from Amazon and the price at which Kindle is sold.
Also this is one of the few Holidays when Amazon did not discount compared to other retailers- infact they were a bit pricier that most discount retailers.Stil people loaded up on Amazon carts more than other retailers.
Amazon will blow away the numbers and it will be a big jump from where we are today- 118-120~
With a steep correction in the last couple of weeks - Amazon looks very cheap, atleast from where the earnings will be compared to etimates.
This past Holiday season Amazon enjoyed the best season for Kindle! The best selling gift from Amazon - thats a major achievement given what else one can buy from Amazon and the price at which Kindle is sold.
Also this is one of the few Holidays when Amazon did not discount compared to other retailers- infact they were a bit pricier that most discount retailers.Stil people loaded up on Amazon carts more than other retailers.
Amazon will blow away the numbers and it will be a big jump from where we are today- 118-120~
Wall Street and Apple!
Q after Q same story!
Wall Street Analysts missing their estimates - not by a penny or two;
not by a nickel or two!
not by a dime or two!
Looks like well Over THREE BILLION Dollars in their revenue - Not Annual number...But Quarterly!
Spreadsheets and Harvard MBAs - still seem to struggle to throw their darts at estimates! If they are relying more on the company guidance and not their proprietary models and extensive reach into the markets and supply chain- shouldnt they just hire reporters and not analysts?
May Be , Just May be That way they can also blow away their earnings!!
Wall Street Analysts missing their estimates - not by a penny or two;
not by a nickel or two!
not by a dime or two!
Looks like well Over THREE BILLION Dollars in their revenue - Not Annual number...But Quarterly!
Spreadsheets and Harvard MBAs - still seem to struggle to throw their darts at estimates! If they are relying more on the company guidance and not their proprietary models and extensive reach into the markets and supply chain- shouldnt they just hire reporters and not analysts?
May Be , Just May be That way they can also blow away their earnings!!
Where is Dollar Headed?
Structurally Broke!
Mr O and his economic team likes export market and indirectly supporting a weak Dollar!
All Dollar bears have been shouting for over a decade that Dollar is broke and the US economy cannt support the debt or the valuation!
PIMCO and Bill Gross emptied their US treasuries and moved to German Bunde.
Suddenly the tide is shifting - including PIMCO!
The commodity king Roger claims he is long on Dollar though he is a bear on Dollar!
I guess Dallar Bear does not mean Weak Dollar! PIMCO says the Dollar BEar market might be ending!
Euro and Yen seem to like being in the lower band as they still would like to support their export economy and compete with Yuan!
Looks like the beginning of a long Bull market for Dollar!
Mr O and his economic team likes export market and indirectly supporting a weak Dollar!
All Dollar bears have been shouting for over a decade that Dollar is broke and the US economy cannt support the debt or the valuation!
PIMCO and Bill Gross emptied their US treasuries and moved to German Bunde.
Suddenly the tide is shifting - including PIMCO!
The commodity king Roger claims he is long on Dollar though he is a bear on Dollar!
I guess Dallar Bear does not mean Weak Dollar! PIMCO says the Dollar BEar market might be ending!
Euro and Yen seem to like being in the lower band as they still would like to support their export economy and compete with Yuan!
Looks like the beginning of a long Bull market for Dollar!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
White House Dialing for Help!
The Ben & Geithner show got rattled by the White House!
The shakeup certainly brought drama to the already fragile Wall Street Dynamics. To spice it up for the week end - White House and its abled staff made the shaky Senators and Congressmen to flip flop their stand and opinions in minutes and hours at best.
Of course the Cool Hand Ben couldn't respond quickly but his fellow from the Federal Reserve came quick to protect its turf. Mr G blinked with sudden scripted support for the reform while the mumbling a different tune behind the camera.
Come what may - the Independence nature of American Federal Reserve might be close to getting tainted when a heavy handed Vockler bulldozes his 20th century views onto an already unsure capital market.
The shakeup certainly brought drama to the already fragile Wall Street Dynamics. To spice it up for the week end - White House and its abled staff made the shaky Senators and Congressmen to flip flop their stand and opinions in minutes and hours at best.
Of course the Cool Hand Ben couldn't respond quickly but his fellow from the Federal Reserve came quick to protect its turf. Mr G blinked with sudden scripted support for the reform while the mumbling a different tune behind the camera.
Come what may - the Independence nature of American Federal Reserve might be close to getting tainted when a heavy handed Vockler bulldozes his 20th century views onto an already unsure capital market.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Financial Reform Shakeup! The value of Number 60!
Can Number 60 be so valuable?
What a difference a few days has made since MA was lost! The Kennedy owned seat- lost?
Wall Street is scrambling for cover! A few Trillion dollars evaporated.
Cool Hand Ben is looking for cover! Everyone from Greenspan to a his Federal Reserve cronies from the past to the present protecting the Depression era Expert who let his guard down during the speculative time and used his expertise to stabilize it! Well atleast thats what the street is being painted with now!
72 Hours does make some difference!
Timothy G - seems to be heading for the Dog House as well - A sudden rumour about his calls to GS , JPM and Mr Buffet on the of AIG distribution of Taxpayer money!
Not to overlook that both these guys lost the prestigious position next to Mr Obama -to Mr Volcker and his namesake reform Rule - and ofcourse Mr Summers is still hiding in the backroom waiting for a chance to express his anger.
After doing God's Work Mr Blankfein is wondering if the new campus for Goldman will be a Heaven or Hell - as Number 85 Broadway seems to be nothing but Hell for him since he took possession!
Could all these be happening because of the covetted Number 60?
From NY to London people are offering differing angles to the same lost Senate seat from MA - Number 60 as the reason for the Obama Crusade to demolish Wall Street & their puppets!
If the changes and the fallout from that is due to losing the Super Majority status - we are certainly headed in the wrong direction and this time around printing money will not help in reversing the tide!
What a difference a few days has made since MA was lost! The Kennedy owned seat- lost?
Wall Street is scrambling for cover! A few Trillion dollars evaporated.
Cool Hand Ben is looking for cover! Everyone from Greenspan to a his Federal Reserve cronies from the past to the present protecting the Depression era Expert who let his guard down during the speculative time and used his expertise to stabilize it! Well atleast thats what the street is being painted with now!
72 Hours does make some difference!
Timothy G - seems to be heading for the Dog House as well - A sudden rumour about his calls to GS , JPM and Mr Buffet on the of AIG distribution of Taxpayer money!
Not to overlook that both these guys lost the prestigious position next to Mr Obama -to Mr Volcker and his namesake reform Rule - and ofcourse Mr Summers is still hiding in the backroom waiting for a chance to express his anger.
After doing God's Work Mr Blankfein is wondering if the new campus for Goldman will be a Heaven or Hell - as Number 85 Broadway seems to be nothing but Hell for him since he took possession!
Could all these be happening because of the covetted Number 60?
From NY to London people are offering differing angles to the same lost Senate seat from MA - Number 60 as the reason for the Obama Crusade to demolish Wall Street & their puppets!
If the changes and the fallout from that is due to losing the Super Majority status - we are certainly headed in the wrong direction and this time around printing money will not help in reversing the tide!
Who is Wall Street fighting?
Is Wall Street fighting Obama and Washington or the real force that is winning from behind is the Fixed Income Players whose time has been overdue? And a taste of their force and power came during the Financial Whatever of 2008-09
A byte for Apple and Mr Jobs
Seven things that could make the pending release of Apple Whatever a game changer:
- Always On anywhere Internet connection for FREE or a very very nominal fee
- Subsidized price of the device by a non-internet/Telco sponsor
- Focus on Education and Technical publications with Schools & University focus
- Ability to wirelessly connect to any TV or Displays
- Loaded with Free Newspapers/journals/premium blogs
- new social offering & cloud based gaming
- free cloud based productivity & consumer applications
- Always On anywhere Internet connection for FREE or a very very nominal fee
- Subsidized price of the device by a non-internet/Telco sponsor
- Focus on Education and Technical publications with Schools & University focus
- Ability to wirelessly connect to any TV or Displays
- Loaded with Free Newspapers/journals/premium blogs
- new social offering & cloud based gaming
- free cloud based productivity & consumer applications
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Warren Buffet- the comeback!
After hiding for a better part of last year when Mr Buffet's caustic bet on Market almost bankrupted his 30 year legacy & reputation- He is back on TV for a overkill.
From his vocal opposition to Kraft & support of Goldman Sach's Management and business!
And his opposition to the Obama Tax on the Financial Bonus saga!
Barron's recent article on Mr Buffet's dual standard when it comes to buying with Stocks only demonstrates hi opportunistic nature which made Berkshire where it is today - both in the investor's mind and media audiences.
From his vocal opposition to Kraft & support of Goldman Sach's Management and business!
And his opposition to the Obama Tax on the Financial Bonus saga!
Barron's recent article on Mr Buffet's dual standard when it comes to buying with Stocks only demonstrates hi opportunistic nature which made Berkshire where it is today - both in the investor's mind and media audiences.
Conan's Anger and Rating- Foxy for his Good?
The recent booting of Conan from the Tonight lineup and his sudden anger directed at NBC on Live TV only shows Conan's fading popularity!
Yes - the recent rating for Conan has gone up since the fight started- With competing channels adding fuel to the fire.
Yes - Conan looks & sounds funny when he spits venom at NBC management and Leno
Yes - its interesting to watch CBS, ABC and Fox showing over and over again Conan's not so professional behaviour on-air comments!
The recent murmur from Fox and WSJ that reports Conan's lack of appeal for a late night gig & their hesitation to bring him on at Fox shows how ineffective Conan is on the slot that has been the market leader for decades.
It is a shame that he can walk with several million dollars after almost grounding a premium progamming slot for late night.
Conan's audience might overlap with Letterman's at best and moving to Fox might steal some of Letterman's audience keeping Leno and The Tonight Show less vulnerable to dilution.
Yes - the recent rating for Conan has gone up since the fight started- With competing channels adding fuel to the fire.
Yes - Conan looks & sounds funny when he spits venom at NBC management and Leno
Yes - its interesting to watch CBS, ABC and Fox showing over and over again Conan's not so professional behaviour on-air comments!
The recent murmur from Fox and WSJ that reports Conan's lack of appeal for a late night gig & their hesitation to bring him on at Fox shows how ineffective Conan is on the slot that has been the market leader for decades.
It is a shame that he can walk with several million dollars after almost grounding a premium progamming slot for late night.
Conan's audience might overlap with Letterman's at best and moving to Fox might steal some of Letterman's audience keeping Leno and The Tonight Show less vulnerable to dilution.
Mr Brown and people of MA send a message?
Is Brown NO 41? or just the beginning and we have more to come beyond the Republican claims?
Still claiming Independence status and everyone scrambling to put a banner behind him might be premature and myopic.
With Dodd and the likes vacating the replacement of Keneedy by Mr Brown could be an indication of what to expect in teh Senate and Congress in 2010 and beyond- a faster change of veterans by young, ambitious and opinionated individuals who may defy party politics and legacy leaderships.
Still claiming Independence status and everyone scrambling to put a banner behind him might be premature and myopic.
With Dodd and the likes vacating the replacement of Keneedy by Mr Brown could be an indication of what to expect in teh Senate and Congress in 2010 and beyond- a faster change of veterans by young, ambitious and opinionated individuals who may defy party politics and legacy leaderships.
The Great Divide?
Apple courting Balmer and Bing!
A Happy marriage with Google appears to be headed towards a real ugly Divorce!
Unlike any in the past - this battle for the future of computing could possibly divide Silicon Valley and bring Microsoft the much needed win to demonstrate its capability to dominate the Tech market.
Microsoft has dne it in the past by its marketing and monetary provess - and this time it aint going to be different.
Could finally bring a winning streak going for Mr Balmer who has been struggling to gain a photo op with Wall Street and Main Street alike.
Hopefully - Apple has learned its lessons from the past and will ink a deal which is more solid and steal proof!
A Happy marriage with Google appears to be headed towards a real ugly Divorce!
Unlike any in the past - this battle for the future of computing could possibly divide Silicon Valley and bring Microsoft the much needed win to demonstrate its capability to dominate the Tech market.
Microsoft has dne it in the past by its marketing and monetary provess - and this time it aint going to be different.
Could finally bring a winning streak going for Mr Balmer who has been struggling to gain a photo op with Wall Street and Main Street alike.
Hopefully - Apple has learned its lessons from the past and will ink a deal which is more solid and steal proof!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Bair and Shapiro on Blame Game!
Bair and Shapiro blaming Wall Street compensation and pay package for the reent Financial Whatever!
Joining the popular sentiment?
Or just Wall Street Envy like every other Individual?
Joining the popular sentiment?
Or just Wall Street Envy like every other Individual?
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Google's China Exit: Value based or Just give up after 4 Years?
Google's exit of China - very politicised and pubicised in Media circle appears to be a very noble thing to do: To tand for its Philosophical values!
Hidden behind the The Great Wallo fo Google might be a very different Business decision - After 4 years of spending mone an trying to bulldoze the largest Internet Market for no avail - it is time to call it Quits?
The revenue and market share is very insignificant for Google - not because of sensorship but because of competition and lack of innovation and understandng of the local user base.
Yes it is Brave to make a Political statement while exiting a losing market when competition has a strong hold on the market!
Hidden behind the The Great Wallo fo Google might be a very different Business decision - After 4 years of spending mone an trying to bulldoze the largest Internet Market for no avail - it is time to call it Quits?
The revenue and market share is very insignificant for Google - not because of sensorship but because of competition and lack of innovation and understandng of the local user base.
Yes it is Brave to make a Political statement while exiting a losing market when competition has a strong hold on the market!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The New Transparency....!
Federal Reserve is Blocking relleaesing information related to Bail outs!
Goldman Sachs wants to Blocks releasing inforamtion related to Bank Pay and Bonuses!
NY Federal Blocked AIG from releasing distribution of Fed Bail out and Sswap details!
On and On and On....!
Goldman Sachs wants to Blocks releasing inforamtion related to Bank Pay and Bonuses!
NY Federal Blocked AIG from releasing distribution of Fed Bail out and Sswap details!
On and On and On....!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Sony is Finally Ready for the World!
Sony under Sir Howard has been slowy but steadily making changes which to a large extent has escaped teh main stream media!
After a long string of losing battles from Mobile Music to Cell Phones to eReader it has started making progress with its sweeping victory in the Blu Ray market and a steady recovery in the Play Station & Television market.
Given their control of creative contents and the new products in R&D - it appears that they are ready for the consumers - ONCE AGAIN!
Sony wil be a BIG WINNER in the next Decade when content and usability becomes the main thing in consumers mind - as Technology goes beyond Innovation!
After a long string of losing battles from Mobile Music to Cell Phones to eReader it has started making progress with its sweeping victory in the Blu Ray market and a steady recovery in the Play Station & Television market.
Given their control of creative contents and the new products in R&D - it appears that they are ready for the consumers - ONCE AGAIN!
Sony wil be a BIG WINNER in the next Decade when content and usability becomes the main thing in consumers mind - as Technology goes beyond Innovation!
Danger! Google , Andy Rubin & the Nexus!
Google and Nexus One tried to steal the CES show!
However what was apparent from the CES: Whats on people's mind coming out of CES is not what Balmer had to say or Google had to offer - it is what Apple & Steve Jobs will do!
Listening to Google and Andy Rubin reminds me of the arrogance of Balmer and the Redmond gang which typically lags way behind in innovation but bull dozes in imitation and intimidation.
Rubin's response when asked about lack of Customer Support on Nexus One - shows why Danger never made it main stream and why Nexus One will go the same way unless Google dramatically changes the way they do business with consumers!
For now - Steve Jobs and the Innovation engine has the runway clear from all srt of obstacles- as long as Microsoft , Google and the likes keep ding what they have been doing - Lack in Innovation and Creativity!
However what was apparent from the CES: Whats on people's mind coming out of CES is not what Balmer had to say or Google had to offer - it is what Apple & Steve Jobs will do!
Listening to Google and Andy Rubin reminds me of the arrogance of Balmer and the Redmond gang which typically lags way behind in innovation but bull dozes in imitation and intimidation.
Rubin's response when asked about lack of Customer Support on Nexus One - shows why Danger never made it main stream and why Nexus One will go the same way unless Google dramatically changes the way they do business with consumers!
For now - Steve Jobs and the Innovation engine has the runway clear from all srt of obstacles- as long as Microsoft , Google and the likes keep ding what they have been doing - Lack in Innovation and Creativity!
Friday, January 8, 2010
The New Norm Economy from PIMCO has listening ears?
PIMCo team has been consistent in pounding the table and relentlessly using the air to propogate their dis-interest in hearing the Obamanomics Mantra while spreading the bias towards Bund!
Well, Well...What do you Know!
A normal Friday followed by a ubnormal Thursday- Yes From AIG and Geithner showing their hidden agenda's from the past! And the Unemployment report showing not so glamourous trend!
PIMC is quick on its heel to tout the New Norm....and Whitehouse talking Debt reduction and deficit cutting and withdrawing Enttlement programs...On a Bad Friday????
May be the War is not over yet and the Bond Kings still CAN control the policy makers!
Well, Well...What do you Know!
A normal Friday followed by a ubnormal Thursday- Yes From AIG and Geithner showing their hidden agenda's from the past! And the Unemployment report showing not so glamourous trend!
PIMC is quick on its heel to tout the New Norm....and Whitehouse talking Debt reduction and deficit cutting and withdrawing Enttlement programs...On a Bad Friday????
May be the War is not over yet and the Bond Kings still CAN control the policy makers!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Year of the Munis!
Over 30 states are figting to bridge the budget gap!
Over $450 Billion to enter the market this year!
From California to New York - deficits are translating into higher taxes and benefit cuts.
With the credit easing up in the Corporate debt market - this year will be flooded by the States on top of what the Treasury & Fed are doing....Illinois going global to raise money...A repeat of Iceland?
Over $450 Billion to enter the market this year!
From California to New York - deficits are translating into higher taxes and benefit cuts.
With the credit easing up in the Corporate debt market - this year will be flooded by the States on top of what the Treasury & Fed are doing....Illinois going global to raise money...A repeat of Iceland?
Trying to be COOL! Intel , Microsoft & Sony!!
Every one wants to be cool! But there are some who go the extra mile to Look COOL the easy way!
First it was Mr Balmer & Mr Gates of Microsoft- various clips from trying to be comedic and play a HipHop and everything stupid- outright miserable...couldnt get up!
Then it was Intel - very open when Mr Otellini of Intel came in a Bunny Suite on stage with Steve Jobs! It didnt last very long!
Now its Sir Howard of Sony - This time he dod not minse words....went straight on the air and said They would like to be Cool!
Is this just a trend of Grown Ups and Matured companies trying to be creative in their market acceptance and failing to be innovative?
First it was Mr Balmer & Mr Gates of Microsoft- various clips from trying to be comedic and play a HipHop and everything stupid- outright miserable...couldnt get up!
Then it was Intel - very open when Mr Otellini of Intel came in a Bunny Suite on stage with Steve Jobs! It didnt last very long!
Now its Sir Howard of Sony - This time he dod not minse words....went straight on the air and said They would like to be Cool!
Is this just a trend of Grown Ups and Matured companies trying to be creative in their market acceptance and failing to be innovative?
Wake-up Mr Sarkozy!
There he goes again!
Very picturesque!
Politically very savvy!
Mr Sarkozy was more vocal and emphatic when he was Holding a Title at EU!
He is the last one to join the Weak currency race and the least powerful!
China was clear on its currency strategy! Japan was not so clear- flop flopping and finally succumbing to Corporate pressure decide to fight with Chinese for the American Consumer! India being a very small player in the Global market - yet had to keep the currency incentive going to keep the Export market happy!
Ofcourse EU cannot sit and watch their closed market - export oriented economy to fail - so here comes the support for a Weak Euro and strong Dollar!
With every one trying to outdo every other Country to weaken their currency - Can the Dollar reach a value based on Economic Fundamentals?
Can Germany regain momnetum for its Global leadership ambition at the expense of Mighty Queen and the Yankees when the rest of the export oriented economies fighting for a piece of the American Consumer?
Can the Fixed Income market achieve what they did in 2008-09? by regaining control over the poicy makers? Given the current dynamics - it is very doubtful that the PIMCO's of the world can repeat what they did recently!
Very picturesque!
Politically very savvy!
Mr Sarkozy was more vocal and emphatic when he was Holding a Title at EU!
He is the last one to join the Weak currency race and the least powerful!
China was clear on its currency strategy! Japan was not so clear- flop flopping and finally succumbing to Corporate pressure decide to fight with Chinese for the American Consumer! India being a very small player in the Global market - yet had to keep the currency incentive going to keep the Export market happy!
Ofcourse EU cannot sit and watch their closed market - export oriented economy to fail - so here comes the support for a Weak Euro and strong Dollar!
With every one trying to outdo every other Country to weaken their currency - Can the Dollar reach a value based on Economic Fundamentals?
Can Germany regain momnetum for its Global leadership ambition at the expense of Mighty Queen and the Yankees when the rest of the export oriented economies fighting for a piece of the American Consumer?
Can the Fixed Income market achieve what they did in 2008-09? by regaining control over the poicy makers? Given the current dynamics - it is very doubtful that the PIMCO's of the world can repeat what they did recently!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Peter Schiff for Senate! Bluementhal follows soon!!
Peter Schiff rose to celebrity status with his Economic melt down predictions - after hiding behind the shadows of Ron Paul!
Pushing the Connecticut Republicans to back him might not be enough to gain momentum!
Bluementhal's popularity within the Democratic state is very compelling and might be difficult to shake his chances!
This election will be a keenly contested one as the outcome will decide the future of Washington Politics! Can the Tea Party movement gain momentum to capitalise on this shift in ground within the democatic party?
Pushing the Connecticut Republicans to back him might not be enough to gain momentum!
Bluementhal's popularity within the Democratic state is very compelling and might be difficult to shake his chances!
This election will be a keenly contested one as the outcome will decide the future of Washington Politics! Can the Tea Party movement gain momentum to capitalise on this shift in ground within the democatic party?
Lockheed Martin Lay off - A beginning for Defense Companies?
Lockheed Martin's 1200 layoff seems like a small insignificant blip in the complex things of Economy!
After 2 terms of Republican Ruling supported by Terrorists action globally and the Fear factor - LMT and other companies in the Defense sectors enjoyed a great growth!
With a change in DC and the Democratic Party Politics shifting the ground with a poerful force- Defense sector will be a casualty - unless a major terrorist act shifts the national sentiment.
LockHeed Martin - one of the best run Defense company is also a one of the largest IT System Integrator - which has been a well kept secret. This might be the beginning of the downward push of the defense stocks- However any mjor sell off in LMT could be a buying opportunity as it is well hedged in non-defense businesses and its IT strengths will start to push its earning power higher soon.
After 2 terms of Republican Ruling supported by Terrorists action globally and the Fear factor - LMT and other companies in the Defense sectors enjoyed a great growth!
With a change in DC and the Democratic Party Politics shifting the ground with a poerful force- Defense sector will be a casualty - unless a major terrorist act shifts the national sentiment.
LockHeed Martin - one of the best run Defense company is also a one of the largest IT System Integrator - which has been a well kept secret. This might be the beginning of the downward push of the defense stocks- However any mjor sell off in LMT could be a buying opportunity as it is well hedged in non-defense businesses and its IT strengths will start to push its earning power higher soon.
Buffet and Cadbury - no sweet tooth here?
Warren Buffet is not happy with Kraft's courting of Cadbury!
Mr Buffet and Berkshire has always claimed Hands-off strategy in portfolio companies and in companies where they have a significant interest. Kraft is one such and they too exception and expresed their displeasure.
The last time Mr Buffet thumped on the table was when Coco-cola wanted Quaker and Gatorade! Coke bowed to Mr Buffet, Respectfully - Only to see Pepsi succesfully take it and make it a money spinner for their ever expanding brands and shelf spaces in etail markets- GLOBALLY! What Buffet won in the Boardroom - Coco-cola lost in teh market to Pepsi!
Kraft is a brand with lot of holes in its international startegy and desperately needs Cadbury to keep its growth edging higher!
Mr Buffet is right in expressing his alarm in seeing a blank Check from Kraft- However there are ways to control the price tag- Doing that is prudent! But let it be that and no more!
Let the Kraft Management have the liberty to expand globally through acquisition - as Krat is not a Brand that cn successfuly expand organically!
Mr Buffet and Berkshire has always claimed Hands-off strategy in portfolio companies and in companies where they have a significant interest. Kraft is one such and they too exception and expresed their displeasure.
The last time Mr Buffet thumped on the table was when Coco-cola wanted Quaker and Gatorade! Coke bowed to Mr Buffet, Respectfully - Only to see Pepsi succesfully take it and make it a money spinner for their ever expanding brands and shelf spaces in etail markets- GLOBALLY! What Buffet won in the Boardroom - Coco-cola lost in teh market to Pepsi!
Kraft is a brand with lot of holes in its international startegy and desperately needs Cadbury to keep its growth edging higher!
Mr Buffet is right in expressing his alarm in seeing a blank Check from Kraft- However there are ways to control the price tag- Doing that is prudent! But let it be that and no more!
Let the Kraft Management have the liberty to expand globally through acquisition - as Krat is not a Brand that cn successfuly expand organically!
PIMCO loading up German Bonds!
PIMCO exiting US Bond and going Patriotic!!
German Company PIMCO unhappy with its political clout in DC in shaping up the Federal Policy and Government Direction has decided to go head to head! By dumping US Investments and loading up on German Bonds!
And being vocal as they do it! Now that is a new image that we have ome to expect from PIMCO during the last two years - during which they managed to strong arm Paulson and Executive branch to make policy changes by the hours that directly or indirectly benefitted PIMCO!
This time around as we have mentioned before - the war could escalate ot a different level! We have a different power house in DC and the intensity with which changes are being bull dozed - it will be a nice time to watch and enjoy the power politics!
German Company PIMCO unhappy with its political clout in DC in shaping up the Federal Policy and Government Direction has decided to go head to head! By dumping US Investments and loading up on German Bonds!
And being vocal as they do it! Now that is a new image that we have ome to expect from PIMCO during the last two years - during which they managed to strong arm Paulson and Executive branch to make policy changes by the hours that directly or indirectly benefitted PIMCO!
This time around as we have mentioned before - the war could escalate ot a different level! We have a different power house in DC and the intensity with which changes are being bull dozed - it will be a nice time to watch and enjoy the power politics!
Change of Guard with Dodd's Exit!
Two of the vocal faces of the Democrats are no more!
After Kennedy - it was left to Dodd and Frank!
After 8 terms and over 3 decades - Dodd is no more!
Politically he survived 2009 - from Scandals to abrasive differences with the Executive branch!
Is this the beginning of the CHANGE that we can expect from the New Democratic Party? Old way of thinking and faces leaving for a new direction and politics?
Or just an inevitable outcome from the likes Tea Parties of middle America?
Or the forces behind Connecticut - Wall Street getting ready for a New Leadership to represent them!
Mr Dodd Good luck and Thank you for long years and hours in DC!
After Kennedy - it was left to Dodd and Frank!
After 8 terms and over 3 decades - Dodd is no more!
Politically he survived 2009 - from Scandals to abrasive differences with the Executive branch!
Is this the beginning of the CHANGE that we can expect from the New Democratic Party? Old way of thinking and faces leaving for a new direction and politics?
Or just an inevitable outcome from the likes Tea Parties of middle America?
Or the forces behind Connecticut - Wall Street getting ready for a New Leadership to represent them!
Mr Dodd Good luck and Thank you for long years and hours in DC!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Banking on America! Mr Moynihan and BofA!
Bank of America for a while had a tag line - Banking on America!
And indeed it did!
After scooping up Merrill Lynch and CountryWide - Bank Of America went down the tube along with the Banking System forcing a Federal bailout!
From being the strongest to the weakest in less than 30 seconds!
Having built a great franchise - Ken Lewis was not spared!
Now crowning King Mr Moynihan - from the Fleet team - looks very vocal and outgoing! A diametric opposite to Mr Ken Lewis! Lewis let the numbers speak for him!
Mr Moynihan does not have time on his side to let the numebrs come and speak- He is on the circuit- speaking and speaking strong!
This is a different time! There is no room for the weaklings!
When there is only one Gorilla roaming the Wall Street under Goldman banner - there is a split second opportunity for a retail brand to regain leadership!
Mr Moynihan looks determined to capture the moment and lead Bank of America to its glory days!
This is a Good time to Bank on Mr Moynihan and Bank of America which has some fo the best of breed Brands and reach under Merrill Lynch and CountryWide not to mention its coast to coast retail presence!
And indeed it did!
After scooping up Merrill Lynch and CountryWide - Bank Of America went down the tube along with the Banking System forcing a Federal bailout!
From being the strongest to the weakest in less than 30 seconds!
Having built a great franchise - Ken Lewis was not spared!
Now crowning King Mr Moynihan - from the Fleet team - looks very vocal and outgoing! A diametric opposite to Mr Ken Lewis! Lewis let the numbers speak for him!
Mr Moynihan does not have time on his side to let the numebrs come and speak- He is on the circuit- speaking and speaking strong!
This is a different time! There is no room for the weaklings!
When there is only one Gorilla roaming the Wall Street under Goldman banner - there is a split second opportunity for a retail brand to regain leadership!
Mr Moynihan looks determined to capture the moment and lead Bank of America to its glory days!
This is a Good time to Bank on Mr Moynihan and Bank of America which has some fo the best of breed Brands and reach under Merrill Lynch and CountryWide not to mention its coast to coast retail presence!
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