March 2012 Archive

jeep

Minimum Volatility: A Versatile ETF

What do minimum volatility ETFs have in common with four-wheel drive vehicles? Noel Archard explains how these funds can be thought of as a versatile vehicle that’s designed to help manage both calm and chaotic conditions….

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stockprices

Stocks: Still a Bargain

Despite equities’ recent rally, Russ explains why he still prefers global stocks to bonds and cash over the long term….

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EMconsumer

How to Access the EM Consumer? Think Small

Investors who are looking to gain exposure to emerging market domestic consumption may want to consider the small cap segment of emerging markets. Russ explains why….

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FI-and-interest-rates

When Rates Rise: How a Bond ETF Reacts

For the first time in a number of months, long-depressed interest rates have started to rise. That has prompted clients to ask what this means for their fixed income ETF holdings. Matt Tucker is here to explain….

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housing

Housing Boom? Not Yet

Despite some recent signs the US housing market may be stabilizing, Russ explains why he doesn’t expect a strong housing rebound in the near term and doesn’t advocate aggressively leveraging to housing-related investments….

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tea-leaves

The Republican Budget Proposal: Reading the Tea Leaves

While budget plans from Republicans and Democrats are generally at odds, the differences between the parties’ current proposals are particularly stark and provide evidence for Russ’ forecast for the global market this year: Two quarters of sun, followed by a chance of severe thunderstorms in the fourth quarter….

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Corporate Bond Intrigue (Video)

Despite the sluggish economy, US corporations have a few good things going for them right now. Does this translate to their ability to repay debt? …

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ask-russ

Ask Russ: Inflation, Treasuries, and International Dividends

Got a burning investment question? Get it answered by the iShares CIO! In the first of an ongoing series, Russ answers reader questions on a variety of topics – and invites you to submit your own….

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wiedman-not-weidman

Bond Investing 2.0

Global flows into fixed income ETFs have hit record levels this year, illustrating a continuing market “revolution” globally as investors increasingly turn to fixed income ETFs in an effort to help restore investment yield to their portfolios. Here’s what Mark Wiedman, the global head of iShares, wants you to know about this growing trend….

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china

The Case for Chinese Stocks

China’s recent lowering of its growth target made some investors nervous that the country may be in for a period of sluggish growth. Russ, however, believes that a hard landing can be avoided, and he continues to advocate overweighting Chinese equities for three reasons….

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