April 15, 2012
The Big Picture
The stock market is driven by two factors: interest rates and earnings. Low interest rates and rising earnings support stock prices. But what happens when rates are as low as they can go? And what happens when earnings results differ from expectations? [Read more…]
April 8, 2012
No one wants to play the “patsy”. It feels terrible when you realize you’ve been duped or taken advantage of. But unfortunately, there are those who make a livelihood preying on people, abusing their trust and absconding with the money.
Conventional wisdom paints a portrait of the elderly as the easy mark but, truth be told, all of us are potential victims of scams and fraud. Here are some common scams to avoid and ways to protect your money and your pride. [Read more…]
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.
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…]
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.
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…]
Karen appears at the 23:10 mark in the video.
Karen appears at the 23:20 mark in the video.
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SELL IN MAY?
The Big Picture
It’s one of the oldest market clichés; “Sell in May and go away, come again St. Leger’s day”, one that is often quoted because it’s works – sometimes. Will this be one of those times? [Read more…]