Economy & Markets
The important economic and stock market news that advisors need to know.
Swiss Franc Tumbles Against Euro as National Bank Defends Currency
By Marlene Y. SatterThe Swiss National Bank on Tuesday stepped in to impose a ceiling on the exchange rate of the national currency on Tuesday, causing the franc to halt four straight days of gains and fall the most ever against the euro.
September 05, 2011
European Markets, Italian Bonds DownWorries over the European debt crisis drove markets and Italys bonds lower on Monday, with gold and the dollar gaining over the euro. Angela Merkels party lost elections in Germany over the weekend as well, showing opposition to euro bailouts the German chancellor has advocated.
September 05, 2011
Solar Offers Opportunity Despite SetbacksDespite setbacks and stiff competition from China and Europe, the U.S. solar industry is still thriving.
September 05, 2011
Climate Change Endangers Insurance Industry: CeresInsurers are failing to adequately plan for climate change risks, according to a report by Ceres, thus endangering not only the consumers and businesses that depend on them but also their own survival.
September 02, 2011
PIMCO’s Gross: ‘Almost Suicidal’ to Focus on Debt Instead of GrowthGovernments should be focusing on creating growth rather than reducing debt, PIMCOs Bill Gross said Friday. To [focus on reducing debt] right now is almost suicidal, he said in an interview on Bloomberg Radio.
September 02, 2011
Can Bank of America Survive Another Beating?The once nearly orphaned Merrill Lynch is BofAs most successful business unit and it is its corporate parent that looks to be near the precipice.
September 02, 2011
Insurance, Muni Bonds Not Dampened by IreneHurricane Irene may have roared up the coast last weekend, but she did not leave complete financial wreckage in her wake. Neither the insurance industry nor the municipal bond market was devastated, despite the billions of dollars in damage.