The $137 billion in cash that Apple currently has sitting on its balance sheet exceeds the entire market values of technology peers Cisco and Intel, prompting investors to consider anew how Apple should invest this stockpile or otherwise return it to shareholders. While opinion is divided, most think investors would be best served if Apple returned excess cash to shareholders in the form of dividends or share repurchases. Read more
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Continued central bank accommodation and a growing consensus that global economic conditions may be improving have combined to push equity indices higher at the start of the year. As we enter the heart of earnings season, investors will undoubtedly be looking for confirmation from the corporate sector. Time will tell if the recent rush of enthusiasm on the part of investors will be rewarded. Read more
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Which influential investors should diligent equity investors follow? Should you be following anybody? Read more
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The authors point out some troubling aspects of the US stock market resulting from its radical transformation over the past 15 years, culminating in the Flash Crash and the unintended consequences of reforms meant to increase market competition. They propose a few very specific rule changes as remedies. Read more
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John Bogle’s story is an oft-told tale, yet even Bogle junkies will learn some fascinating new facts from the latest book by the founder of the Vanguard Group. Every thoughtful investor can benefit from his wisdom, served up with refreshing modesty by a giant in a field notorious for outsized egos. Read more
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Topping the list of the most popular articles from the past month is another entry in our series on lie detection for investment professionals. Other top performers include articles on counterfactual thinking and the Manchester United IPO. Read more
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Investing results unfold in the future, yet many investors spend all of their time analyzing facts. What can a leading futurist teach investors about forecasting? Read more
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Manchester United, the acclaimed soccer club of the English Premier League, is planning to sell shares to the public in an offering to be priced August 9, 2012. While its iconic brand and loyal following are probably unsurpassed in professional sports, the valuation attached to Manchester United’s shares and the risk factors associated with ownership make this an investment to avoid, unless you are just looking for bragging rights at your local pub. Read more
Leave a CommentThe Economist points out that corporations are more nimble than governments with regard to their financing. Because businesses are transnational entities, they can seek the lowest-cost domain for raising capital. Read more
Leave a CommentIn the second half of this interview with the CEO of Entegra Partners, Jim Butcher outlines the benefits of scenario planning, which he thinks is especially useful in these uncertain times. Read more
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