Economy & Markets
The important economic and stock market news that advisors need to know.
Portugal, Spanish Banks May Take Ratings Hit; Spain Sells Bonds
By Marlene Y. SatterPortugal became the latest in the parade of euro zone nations to be warned by Moody’s that it might be in for a ratings cut. Putting Portugal on review, Moody’s said Tuesday that because of low growth prospects and the high cost to Lisbon for its borrowing, it may drop...
December 20, 2010
Irish Banking Law in New Budget Up for ScrutinyAs part of last week’s approval of the new austerity budget for Ireland, its Parliament also gave its finance minister broad new powers over the banking sector.
December 20, 2010
SEC Budget, Estate Tax Adjustments: Advisor Briefing for the Week of Dec. 20, 2010The Federal budget, retail and housing sales, Greek budget, and a new series looking at the markets and economy in 2011 highlight the week's news for advisors and their clients.
December 19, 2010
Gold Vending Machines Come to U.S.In Boca Raton, Fla., you can buy gold bullion from a vending machine as a gift for that hard-to-buy-for person on your list.
December 19, 2010
Greece Receives More Bailout Funding as Emerging Markets RiseAs Greece breathed a sigh of relief at the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) decision to release the next tranche of funding in its bailout package, the IMF itself began to shift voting power within the organization to emerging market countries so that it “better reflects realities.”
December 19, 2010
Ireland, Spain Feel Pain of AusterityA poll of Ireland’s citizens indicates deep division over the rescue package the country has accepted from the EU and IMF.
December 17, 2010
Now That Omnibus Spending Bill Shelved, What Happens Next?“Since the Senate biggy was defeated [omnibus spending bill], I don’t think it will do a whole lot [on budget resolution] before recess,” says former Congressman Bill Frenzel (R-Minn.), now a guest scholar of economic studies at the Brookings Institution.