Currency is typically defined as a system of money in general use in a particular country. This is the case in most countries today. Historically, periods of exceptional turmoil or circumstances, such as WW II, have given rise to reversions to barter and tangible substitutes for currency. In some instances, even today, individuals have sought … Continued
It has been evident for a number of years that there is very little chance that the electric utility industry will resume construction of large nuclear reactors because of cost overruns, delays, permitting and NIMBY. However, there does seem to be some interest in miniature nuclear reactors as a source of steady energy that can … Continued
Recently, two articles crossed my desk that provide some insight into the extent and complexity of attempting to compete with China. The first article addressed the issue of labor and introduced, at least to me, the number 996. Apparently, this is shorthand for the schedule that has become the workplace norm at many Chinese companies: … Continued
The whole process of simply paying employees has become increasingly politicized with competing agendas shifting the focus away from the fundamental idea of a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work. We have advocates for a higher minimum wage, federal, state and local versions, for a competitive wage, for a living wage and so on. … Continued
Humans are generally not constructed to deal well with uncertainty. Investors need predictability in key areas such as accounting, regulation, taxation and political whim, to mention a few. While no system is perfect, investors in U.S. based companies enjoy a relatively greater degree of consistency than is the case for many other jurisdictions. The most … Continued
Some observers seem to be able to detect signs of a slowing in U.S. economic growth, even though in reality, companies cannot produce enough to meet customer orders. U.S. industry is dealing with near record raw material lead times, fluctuating commodity prices, with an upward bias, transportation bottlenecks and worker shortages. No wonder economic activity, … Continued
Both new and used car and truck prices have been soaring as major manufacturers have had to curtail production because of worldwide shortages of essential semiconductors. This presents a serious dilemma for consumers and investors. Clearly, this not a good time to buy a new or used vehicle. Prices are up significantly across the board … Continued
Most of us are familiar with that line on numerous forms that asks for an emergency contact, and have no trouble answering. Unfortunately, there are some who do not have a reliable emergency contact. Clearly, this is an issue that should be addressed sooner rather than later. In the absence of an appropriate relative, this … Continued
Recent speculation relating to the possible acceptance of Bitcoin by Amazon led to another flurry of volatility for cryptocurrencies. Investors might want to take a deep breath, step back, and consider if this makes sense, is even feasible, much less practical. Amazon has stated that the company has no immediate plan to accept Bitcoin for … Continued
As the Biden administration considers options to fund proposed spending, the possibility of a wealth tax continues to surface. While there are no specifics, or bills in Congress, at this time, investors may want to consider some of the potential consequences, intended and/or unintended. It should be recognized that the idea of a wealth tax … Continued
The need to raise taxes is definitely front and center in the news, driven by the administration’s unprecedented pursuit of unfunded spending. This has led to an increase in the concept of “fair share”, a concept that defies definition. Perhaps it would be constructive to examine the whole idea of taxation. One might think that … Continued
According to data from Freddie Mac, Americans are back to tapping their homes for cash. During the first quarter of 2021, home equity loans cashed out, reached an estimated $49.6 billion, up nearly 80% from the year ago period, but still below the $84 billion quarterly cash-out rate reached in 2006. A decision that proved to … Continued
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