Maryland Public Television recently launched a new, online personal finance advice column by veteran business correspondent and television anchor Karen Gibbs. “Ask Karen Gibbs” tackles consumer questions and provides tips on money matters for persons of all life stages and incomes. Gibbs offers her perspective on current financial issues and addresses money questions from the public. Advice seekers may send questions via email to AskKaren@mpt.org. Go to http://www.mptgetincharge.com.
Archives for March 2012
I’m back!!
March 13, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Welcome to the new and improved GIBBS PERSPECTIVE website. With better navigation and user-friendly layout, I hope it’s easier for you to read and respond.
While the graphics and photos may be new, you can still count on the same clear, concise commentary you’ve come to expect over the past five years. And now you can leave comments or ask questions. You’ll still get the same down to earth analysis and straight forward assessments that, hopefully, educate as well as entertain.
Take a look around and let me know what you think. I look forward to hearing from you.
Happy Anniversary
March 12, 2012 by Leave a Comment
The Big Picture
It’s been three years since the stock market bottomed and its getting more difficult for the naysayers. The labor market is improving, consumer confidence is rising and the major market averages have nearly doubled from their March 9, 2009 lows.
First, look at the jobs picture. Last month the economy created 227,000 new jobs, the third consecutive month of 200,000 plus new jobs created and six consecutive months of job growth.
The quality of the jobs created is also improving. No longer concentrated in low-paying service jobs, the recent gains were across the board. Service jobs continue to dominate the growth, a reflection of our service-based economy. However, [Read more…]
SPRING IS HERE
March 26, 2012
The Big Picture
Spring is here, according to the calendar and the trees, so-end-of-quarter window dressing can’t be far behind.
And this spring may see a bit more activity than usual from money managers and hedge-fund operators. The economic recovery has finally spilled over into the labor market and the nay-sayers are starting to take notice. So far this year, the S&P 500 index is up 11% and up a stunning 23.5% since September 30, 2011. [Read more…]