Best of the AAII Journal
Bonds »
The Muni Market Turmoil Continues: What's Going on and How to Respond
There have been a number of very bad years in the municipal bond market. But 2008 is in a league of its own--without any doubt, the worst year ever in the municipal bond market. And the most likely outlook is continued volatility. What lies behind the current declines, and a look at what actions investors may want to consider.
The First Cut »
Low P/E Stocks With Positive Earnings Surprises
A starting point for investors. This issue's focus is on stocks that have had a significant positive quarterly earnings surprise since September, and that sport a below-average forward price-earnings ratio.
Hot Links »
On-Line Tax Information and Tax Filing Sites
The Web provides many resources for getting free tax information, plus there are a number of Web sites that offer free on-line tax preparation services.
Offbeat Offerings »
Build America Bonds
An investor reference for products that are not your typical offering. This issue's focus is on the new Buy America Bonds--taxable bonds that are issued by state and local governments.
Investor Professor »
"Stock" Supply Data: Inventory Turnover
For stock investors analyzing prospective investments and their own holdings, one important issue concerns how much money a company has tied up in its inventory. How can you judge a company's ability to manage inventory? Two operating performance measures are particularly useful in analyzing how efficiently a firm is managing its "stock."
Portfolio Strategies »
How to Create Your Own Pension: A Closer Look at Immediate Annuities
How would you like to have lifelong income even after you retire? That's what it's like to receive a pension. What if you don't have one? One option is to buy a product that will create one for you--an "immediate annuity," which is the oldest product of its kind in the marketplace.
Insurance Products »
Lightening the Financial Load of Life Insurance Products
Decisions about financial assets come under stress in difficult economic times. A look at four helpful ways of managing life insurance during such periods.
Stock Screens »
Value Investing Using the Fundamental Rule of Thumb
Earnings yield, dividend yield, and the ratio of earnings retained to book value are well-known value factors that are often used by value investors. The Fundamental Rule of Thumb approach combines all three, and allows you to calculate a trade-off score that may help uncover stocks meriting further analysis. How to screen using the Fundamental Rule of Thumb approach
Stock Strategies »
Risky Business: How to Pick Winning Property & Casualty Insurer Stocks
Many great fortunes have been built by smart insurance operators. A good example is Berkshire Hathaway, which has interests in several insurers and reinsurers covering a variety of property and casualty risks. At its heart, the P&C insurance business is one of shared risk--and proper pricing of that risk. How to spot opportunities in the risk business.
