Calandra Financial Group Blog

Weekly Market Commentary – May 2, 2011

Posted on May 2, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of May 2, 2011

THE MARKETS:

Stocks finished sharply higher last week, leading major indexes to their best month so far this year.[i] A strong earnings season coupled with increases in personal spending, personal income, and gradual improvement in the nation’s job picture helped the Dow finish 4.3% higher for the month.[ii]

Also last week, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke held his first-ever press conference to answer reporters’ questions in a televised setting. A clear effort was made to reassure a skeptical public that the central bank is doing everything it can to control inflation and expand the recovery. “It is very hard to blame the American public for being impatient,” the Fed Chairman told about 60 reporters at Wednesday’s news conference. Citing high unemployment and rising gas prices, Bernanke acknowledged that, “Conditions are far from where we would like them to be.”[iii]

Commenting on the Fed’s commitment to help curb excessive inflation, the Fed Chairman added, “If inflation persists or inflation expectations begin to move, then there is no substitution for action. We would have to respond… I think every central banker understands that keeping inflation low and stable is absolutely essential to a successful economy. And we will do what is necessary to ensure that that happens.”[iv] At a time when food and gas prices are on the rise, these words were comforting for many Americans to hear. And while stating that the recovery has been merely “moderate”, Bernanke also stressed the Fed’s belief that it is “sustainable”.

In spite of Mr. Bernanke’s constructive tone, we must reasonably acknowledge that the economic picture is not entirely rosy. Government data released Thursday showed that U.S. GDP slowed in the first quarter to 1.8% from 3.1% in the previous quarter, reflecting a spike in gasoline, higher overall inflation, and continued weakness in the housing market.[v]

Much like a ship captain monitors his navigational instruments, we will continue to monitor both the policy makers and the economic indicators that help us navigate the vast sea of investment options. Commentaries like this are our way keeping you informed of the course we are charting.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Tuesday – Redbook, New Home Sales
Wednesday – Durable Goods Orders
Thursday – GDP, Jobless Claims , Corporate Profits
Friday – Personal Income and Outlays, Consumer Sentiment

Data as of 04/29/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	1.96	8.43	13.0	0.81	0.88
Dow	2.44	10.7	14.7	2.54	1.85
NASDAQ	1.89	8.32	14.4	4.74	3.84
MSCI EAFE	2.24	9.00	16.3	0.58	2.76
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.40	N/A	3.73	5.07	5.31

Notes: All index returns exclude reinvested dividends, and the 5-year and 10-year returns are annualized.
Sources: Yahoo! Finance, MSCI Barra. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. NA means not available.

HEADLINES:

The death toll from this week’s storms rose to 343 Saturday, according to an NBC News count, making the tornado outbreak the second deadliest in U.S. history. Catastrophe risk modeling company EQECAT said that with initial reports of nearly 10,000 destroyed buildings, property insurance losses were expected to range from $2 to $5 Billion.[vi]

President Barack Obama used his weekly address to the nation to reiterate his call on Congress to stop granting tax subsidies to oil and gas companies. Despite recent signs of economic recovery, families across the country are experiencing “real pain” from soaring gas prices, Obama said.[vii]

Prince William and Kate Middleton have been pronounced husband and wife at Westminster Abbey in London. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as they will now be known, made their vows in front of 1,900 guests and the eyes of the world.[viii]

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission is preparing an investigation of Google Inc.’s dominance of the Internet search industry by alerting high-tech companies to gather information for the probe, three people familiar with the matter said. The probe is examining whether Google discriminated against other services in search results and stopped websites from accepting rival ads.[ix]

Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, a mastermind of the largest terrorist attack in American history, was killed Sunday in Pakistan in a military operation after the U.S. learned of his location.[x]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present. – Jim Rohn

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Dip

From: Betty Crocker
Roasted red peppers add color to a one-dish dip requiring 10 minutes of prep time.

Ingredients:

1 jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained (6 to 7 ounces)

½ cup drained roasted red bell peppers (from 7-ounce jar)

1 package cream cheese, softened (3 ounces) find more recipes with this ingredient Philadelphia Cream Cheese Spread with Blueberry Fruit Spread 2 for $3.00
Cream Cheese Spread with Blueberry Fruit Spread
Assorted Varieties, 8-oz pkg. SAVE UP TO $1.58 ON 2
thru 2011-04-2

Publix

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Assorted crackers or veggie crisps

Directions:

1. In food processor, place artichoke hearts and bell peppers. Cover and process until coarsely chopped. Add cream cheese, sour cream and parsley. Cover and process just until blended.

2. Garnish dip with additional chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crackers.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

What’s In Your Bag?

What is the best set makeup for an average player? Assuming that you’re going to adhere to the 14-club limit, you’ll want to assemble a set with which you use all the clubs and have no distance gaps. To show how to pick the set that suits you best, here is an average list of clubs and yardages. These yardages may not apply to your game, but you should be able to apply the same principle.

Woods:
Driver – 200 yards
3-Wood – 190 yards
5-Wood -180 yards
7-Wood – 170 yards
9-Wood – 160 yards
11-Wood – 150 yards
13-Wood – 140 yards
15-Wood – 130 yards

Irons:
2-Iron – 190 yards
3-Iron – 180 yards
4-Iron – 170 yards
5-Iron – 160 yards
6-Iron – 150 yards
7-Iron – 140 yards
8-Iron – 130 yards
9-iron – 120 yards
P. W. – 110 yards
S. W. – 90 yards

The idea is to pick a set that gives you a consistent distance spread from club to club. If you do not hit your 3 and 4 irons well, then take them out of your bag and replace them with a 5 and 7 wood. This will at least close any distance gaps created because of the unused clubs. As you can see, there is an overlap between the woods and irons all the way from 130 to 190 yards. If you’re not comfortable hitting a certain iron, simply replace it with the corresponding wood, and vice versa.

Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

The MSCI EAFE Index was created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) that serves as a benchmark of the performance in major international equity markets as represented by 21 major MSCI indexes from Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia.

The 10-year Treasury Note represents debt owed by the United States Treasury to the public. Since the U.S. Government is seen as a risk-free borrower, investors use the 10-year Treasury Note as a benchmark for the long-term bond market.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

Fixed income investments are subject to various risks including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation risk, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative or named Broker dealer, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.

By clicking on these links, you will leave our server as they are located on another server. We have not independently verified the information available through this link. The link is provided to you as a matter of interest. Please click on the links below to leave and proceed to the selected site.

[i] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/29/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[ii] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/29/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[iii] http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1104/27/qmb.01.html

[iv] http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1104/27/qmb.01.html

[v] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/28/news/economy/1q_gdp_report/index.htm?iid=EL

[vi] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42834400/ns/weather/

[vii] http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0411/53977.html

[viii] http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2011/apr/29/royal-wedding-newlyweds-afternoon-celebration?intcmp=239

[ix] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-29/google-said-to-be-subject-of-ftc-probe-into-web-search-industry-dominance.html

[x] http://blogs.wsj.com/wsjam/2011/05/02/osama-bin-laden-is-dead/

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Weekly Market Commentary – April 18, 2011

Posted on April 20, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of April 18, 2011

THE MARKETS:

In spite of a rocky start to earnings season, promising economic news helped reassure investors this week. Stocks even managed to post modest gains on Friday in response to the hopeful signs.

Aside from food and gas prices, the Labor Department reported that consumer prices rose just 0.1% in March, lower than the predicted 0.2%.[i] With prices inflating slower than expected, Americans got a break. And in today’s economy, consumers need every break they can get. When prices are lower, people tend to feel better and spend more – good news since consumer spending accounts for about 70% of the total U.S. economy.[ii]

Signs show that Americans are also feeling more optimistic. The U.S. consumer sentiment index rose from 67.5 in March to 69.6 in April, beating expectations.[iii] This increase could be partially attributed to the addition of jobs for six straight months and an unemployment rate sitting at a two-year low.[iv] These positive numbers indicate job gains are helping Americans manage rising fuel costs and maintain a positive outlook.[v]

Industrial production increased for the ninth straight month in a row, rising 0.8% in March, and factory production increased 9.1% in the first quarter.[vi] Total industrial production was 5.9% above its year-earlier level.[vii] These numbers are all higher than forecast last month, and are a good sign that factories will keep driving the U.S. economy.[viii]

These indicators show that prices are down, optimism is up, and factories are producing at higher levels than last year; all signs that our economy is still making progress. Earnings season will kick into high gear this week as Wall Street gets quarterly results from 110 members of the S&P 500, giving us a broad view of how Corporate America is doing.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR: Monday – Housing Market Index Tuesday – Housing Starts, Redbook Wednesday – Existing Home Sales, EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – Jobless Claims, Philadelphia Fed Survey, Leading Indicators Friday – U.S. Market Holiday: Good Friday Observed

Data as of 04/15/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-0.36	4.93	10.7	0.19	0.66
Dow	-0.32	6.60	12.0	1.90	1.63
NASDAQ	-0.25	4.21	11.4	3.47	3.30
MSCI EAFE	-0.34	4.69	8.47	0.12	2.65
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.57	N/A	3.77	4.97	5.12

HEADLINES:

Congress sent President Barack Obama legislation cutting a record $38 billion from federal spending on Thursday. This measure will finance the government through the September 30^th end of the budget year.[ix]

Bank of America’s first-quarter income fell 39% on higher costs related to its mortgage business and litigation. The bank also settled a claim over faulty mortgage investments and set aside less money to cover bad loans. The earnings fell short of the 28 cents a share estimated by analysts surveyed by FactSet and revenue fell to $26.9 billion from $32 billion in the same period last year.[x]

The first settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) could be reached as soon as next week. The securities regulator is in talks with major Wall Street banks to settle fraud allegations relating to the sale of toxic mortgage bonds to various investors that helped unleash the financial crisis.[xi]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed. – Theodore Roosevelt

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Goat Cheese Pastry Rounds

From: Better Homes and Gardens

Ingredients:

1/2 of a 17.3-ounce package frozen puff pastry (1 sheet), thawed

Tomato preserves or favorite fruit preserves* (about 3 tablespoons)

3 2- to 2-1/2-inch diameter rounds goat cheese (3 to 4 oz. each)

1 egg, beaten

Fresh figs or grapes (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degree F. Line a baking sheet with foil; grease foil. Set aside.

2. Unfold pastry on a lightly floured surface; roll into a 12-inch square. Cut pastry into four 6-inch squares. Place 1 tablespoon preserves in center of 3 of the pastry squares. Place goat cheese atop preserves. Bring edges of pastry up and over cheese rounds, pleating and pinching edges to cover. Sea; trim excess pastry. Invert and place on prepared baking sheet, smooth side up. Brush pastry with egg. Cut small slits in pastry for steam to escape. Cut remaining pastry square into decorative leaves; place atop brushed pastry and brush with additional egg.

3. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until pastry is golden brown. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes before serving. If desired, serve with fresh figs. Makes 12 servings.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

What the Perfect Swing Looks Like
By Michael Lopuszynski

The Problem:
You’re hitting too many slices and your swing just never feels right.

The Solution:
Most of us are taught to swing down the target line, which actually causes your arms to fly away from your body. The result is inconsistent contact and a swing you can’t repeat. The only time your clubface should point down the target line is when you contact the ball. The swing path should start inside and intersect the target line only just before impact and then start back inside right after impact. This circular swing keeps your body and arms connected, which helps you strike the ball with power.

Try This:
On the range, stop your arms at impact and allow your body rotation to bring the club back inside on your follow-through. This will ingrain the proper clubhead path after impact.

Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[i] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42605261/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/

[ii] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-15/consumer-sentiment-in-u-s-rises-more-than-forecast-in-third-monthly-gain.html

[iii] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/15/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[iv] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/15/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[v] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-15/consumer-sentiment-in-u-s-rises-more-than-forecast-in-third-monthly-gain.html

[vi] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42605261/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/

[vii] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-15/u-s-march-industrial-production-and-capacity-report-text-.html

[viii] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-15/u-s-industrial-production-increased-0-8-in-march-fed-says.html

[ix] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42587459/ns/politics-capitol_hill/

[x] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42607719/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/

[xi] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42605827/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/

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Weekly Market Commentary – April 11, 2011

Posted on April 14, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of April 11, 2011

THE MARKETS:

Fears of a government shutdown loomed large last Friday night. With less than an hour to spare, Congress pushed through a last-minute spending bill – the seventh in the past six months – which cut $2 billion and allows agencies to spend money through April 15. By that time, lawmakers expect to determine a budget for the remaining six months of the fiscal year.[1] It is interesting to note how awareness of the potential shutdown affected investors.

As a result of the budget impasse, a sharply weaker dollar led investors into oil and commodities, while U.S. stocks fell.[2] As we’ve mentioned before, equity markets don’t like uncertainty, and the exodus we saw on Friday is a classic example of this fact. At a time when concerns regarding the Middle East situation has sent oil prices surging, and the Japanese disaster has impacted supply chains,[3] reaching a deal was extremely important. The last-minute agreement keeps 800,000 government workers on the job and a variety of services, from passport issuing to tax collecting, up and running. It also allows the military to continue receiving their paychecks.[4]

“Both sides had to make tough decisions and give ground on issues that were important to them,” President Obama said. “But beginning to live within our means is the only way to protect those investments that will help America compete for new jobs.” Despite budget concerns, consumer confidence rose for a second consecutive week as an improving job market helped ease the burden of higher fuel costs.[5]

As in the past, both international and domestic politics will continue to play a part in peoples investing decisions. The week ahead will likely be no exception as the new budget is voted on. Also next week, a series of labor reports are released and earnings season begins. We’ll let you know how things turn out in our commentary next week.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR: Tuesday – International Trade, Import and Export Prices, Bank of Canada Announcement, Treasury Budget Wednesday – Retail Sales, Business Inventories, EIA Petroleum Status Report, Beige Book
Thursday – Producer Price Index, Jobless Claims Friday – Consumer Price Index, Empire State Mfg, Treasury International Capital, Industrial Production, Consumer Sentiment

Data as of 04/08/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-0.32	5.61	12.0	0.50	1.77
Dow	0.03	6.93	13.3	2.27	2.64
NASDAQ	-0.33	4.81	14.1	3.77	6.16
MSCI EAFE	1.04	5.26	9.66	0.59	2.95
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.45	N/A	3.90	4.96	4.87

HEADLINES:

Crude oil advanced 2.3% Friday, settling at $112 a barrel – its highest price in more than 30 months.[6] In addition to sparking fears about a slowdown in the global economy, investors are also concerned about Libya’s civil war and the country’s 80% drop in production.[7]

On April 6 Portugal asked for international assistance, joining Greece and Ireland in receiving bailouts from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund. The country faces around €4.3 billion ($6.2 billion) of bond redemptions in April, followed by a repayment of €4.9 billion in June.[8]

The quarterly earnings season begins next week. Gas and commodity prices have surged this year, and could spell trouble for the rebound in consumer spending and sales growth. Overall, earnings for the companies in the S&P 500 are expected to be up 11.5% over last year. Revenues are expected to rise 8%, remaining unchanged from the fourth quarter.[9]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“Patience and fortitude conquer all things.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Strawberry Bruschetta

From: Better Homes and Gardens
Serve this as an appetizer or dessert when strawberries are in season.

Servings: 24 servings

Total: 25 mins

Ingredients:

1 8-ounce loaf baguette-style French bread

1 8-ounce tub cream cheese

1 tablespoon honey

2 cups strawberries, sliced

¼ cup strawberry jelly

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 375 degree F. Cut bread into 24 slices about 1/4-inch thick. Place in a single layer on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake about 10 minutes or until lightly brown, turning once.

2. Stir together cream cheese and honey; spread on one side of each bread slice. Arrange strawberry slices on the cheese. Heat jelly in a custard cup in a microwave oven on high power for 30 seconds; stir (or heat and stir in a small saucepan until melted). Brush jelly over strawberries. Makes 24 servings.

Make-Ahead Tip
Toast the bread and store in a covered container at room temperature up to 2 days or freeze up to 1 month. Stir together the cream cheese and honey; cover and refrigerate up to 2 days.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Can You Wiggle Your Toes?

With the proper setup, your weight should be distributed evenly on your feet. Many golfers have a tendency to stretch out towards the ball too much. This causes their weight to be too far forward. How can you tell if your weight distribution is proper? Easy! Just make sure you can wiggle your toes freely.

Share the Wealth of Knowledge!
Please share this market update with family, friends, or colleagues. If you would like us to add them to our list, simply click on the “Forward email” link below. We love being introduced!
Insert your broker/dealer disclosures here. i.e. Securities offered through “Your B/D Name Here,” Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[1]http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/08/news/economy/budget_deal/index.htm

[2] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/08/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[3] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/government-shutdown-looms-at-midnight-2011-04-08

[4] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/government-shutdown-looms-at-midnight-2011-04-08

[5] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-09/obama-says-goverment-will-be-open-for-business-after-deal.html

[6] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/crude-oil-rallies-to-almost-112-a-barrel-2011-04-08

[7] http://www.cnbc.com/id/42483704

[8] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/portugal-pays-nearly-6-to-borrow-12-months-2011-04-06

[9] http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/09/markets/first_quarter_corporate_earnings/index.htm

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Weekly Market Commentary – March 14, 2011

Posted on March 15, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of March 14, 2011

THE MARKETS:

On Friday, an 8.9 earthquake rocked Japan and generated a 30-foot-high tsunami that devastated the northeastern coast. In consideration of the widespread destruction, human suffering is the issue of primary concern at this time. Simultaneously though, it is crucial to consider the economic impact of this natural disaster. What affects are we already experiencing?

Though Japan’s recession-burdened stock markets dropped,[1] the expected scope of the rebuilding effort sent U.S. stocks climbing on expectations for increased demand for materials.[2] Interestingly, we also saw a $3 a barrel drop in oil prices inspired by anticipation of decreased Japanese demand.[3] At the same time, some speculate that the probable increase in Japan’s spending has the potential to propel their already strong currency, the yen, higher as Japanese money invested abroad is applied to rebuilding.[4] How long and to what extent such factors will influence the world economy remains to be seen.

The earthquake also took a heavy toll on the nation’s industries, forcing Toyota, Honda and Nissan to halt operations at most of their domestic plants.[5] These shutdowns come at a time of strong recovery in global consumption (U.S. auto sales clocked their strongest pace in 18 months in February[6]). Also suspending operations are Panasonic, Sony, and Toshiba.[7] A bigger impact will likely come in the weeks ahead as the disruptions make their way through the global supply chain.

In today’s world, we exist as part of a connected, global community. And although it is fitting to discuss how international situations can have an impact domestically, we should also remember that such analysis cannot diminish Japan’s catastrophic losses. While the weeks and months ahead will gradually reveal the extent of the disaster, it will also give us a chance to demonstrate our humanity and generosity.

SPECIAL NOTE: While we do not want to discourage you from donating toward relief efforts in Japan, we urge you to exercise caution. Whenever a natural disaster strikes, there are always unscrupulous individuals who will attempt to take advantage of the generosity of those who wish to give. Many reputable sources warn donors to be cautious when making contributions to relief agencies and charities. Please visit the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance for more information about how to donate safely. See www.bbb.org/charity.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR: Tuesday – Empire State Mfg Survey, Import and Export Prices, Treasury International Capital, Housing Market Index, FOMC Meeting Announcement Wednesday – Housing Starts, Producer Price Index, EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – Consumer Price Index, BOE Announcement, International Trade, Jobless Claims, Industrial Production, Leading Indicators, Philadelphia Fed Survey

Data as of 03/11/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-1.28	3.71	13.4	0.36	0.57
Dow	-1.03	4.03	13.5	1.75	1.32
NASDAQ	-2.48	2.36	14.6	4.01	3.23
MSCI EAFE	-3.09	1.68	7.85	-0.88	2.02
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.49	N/A	3.72	4.76	4.93

HEADLINES:

Professional-football players disbanded their union and filed a lawsuit against the NFL and team owners on Friday. The collapse of the talks makes it likely that NFL owners will bar their players from turning up to work and withholding their paychecks. The players filed suit for the right to be allowed to work.[8]

U.S. consumer sentiment fell to its lowest level since October 2010 as gasoline prices rose. The preliminary March reading on the overall index on consumer sentiment came in at 68.2, down from 77.5 in February. The numbers were in contrast to the retail sales report earlier Friday, which showed sales posted their largest gain in four months in February.[9]

House Republicans are preparing another stopgap-spending bill that would cut $6 billion from current levels and keep the government running for three more weeks. The stopgap-spending bill would buy lawmakers more time after existing funding authority expires on March 18 to agree on final spending levels for the 2011 fiscal year, which ends September 30. The Senate would have to approve it as well before it could be sent to President Obama to sign into law.[10]

Forbes 2011 Billionaires List breaks two records: total number of listees (1,210) and combined wealth ($4.5 trillion). Mexico’s Carlos Slim Helu, added $20.5 billion to his fortune, and is now worth $74 billion. Bill Gates (#2) and Warren Buffett (#3) both added a more modest $3 billion to their piles and are now worth $56 billion and $50 billion, respectively.[11]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“In separateness lies the world’s great misery, in compassion lies the world’s true strength.” – Buddha
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Maple Ricotta Flan

From: Better Homes and Gardens
This 5-ingredient dessert can be pulled together in just 15 minutes.

Servings: Makes 6 servings.

Prep: 15 mins

Total: 45 mins

Ingredients:

1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. pure maple syrup

4 beaten eggs

1 15-oz. container ricotta cheese

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Divide the 1/4 cup maple syrup among six 6-ounce custard cups; tilt custard cups to coat bottoms evenly.

2. In a bowl combine eggs, cheese, sugar, vanilla, and remaining teaspoon maple syrup. Mix until well combined but not foamy. Place the custard cups in a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Divide egg mixture among custard cups. Sprinkle with nutmeg. Place the baking dish on an oven rack. Pour boiling water into the baking dish around custard cups to a depth of 1 inch. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the centers comes out clean.|

3. Remove cups from water. Cool completely in custard cups. Cover and chill until serving time. To unmold flans, loosen edges with a knife, slipping point of knife down sides to let air in. Invert a dessert plate over each flan; turn custard cup and plate over together.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Putting Yips?

Once fear gets a hold on your nervous system, it can seem like it will never end. Goodbye confidence. What can you do? Solve the problem by taking two actions:

1) Spot the fear early. When spotted, step back, take a breath, and restart your routine. Once your body/mind learns you won’t give in to your nerves, it actually gets the message.

2) Put your mind on the present, not the future. Don’t think about everything that can go wrong with your shot. Just focus on your movement.

Following this routines brings you into the “now.” Use this to combat fear.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[1] http://finance.fortune.cnn.com/2011/03/11/japans-fiscal-fix-deepens/

[2]http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703597804576194130989423722.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

[3] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703597804576194452970557580.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

[4] http://www.cnbc.com/id/42045635

[5] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704296604576196140410967916.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLTopStories

[6] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703597804576194101663283550.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLTopStories

[7] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704296604576196140410967916.html?mod=WSJ_hp_MIDDLTopStories

[8] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/nfl-players-union-to-disband-court-case-follows-2011-03-11

[9] http://www.cnbc.com/id/42028477

[10] http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/03/11/us-usa-congress-spending-idUSTRE7205MS20110311

[11] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41989924/ns/business-forbescom/

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Weekly Market Commentary – March 7, 2011

Posted on March 10, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of March 07, 2011

THE MARKETS:

As of late, the big question on everyone’s mind has been: Will the recovery stick? And while the talking heads have been debating their positions on the issue, the chief talking head himself – Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke – appeared before the House Financial Services Committee and a Senate panel last week to offer his semiannual report on the state of the economy. What was the word? Bernanke said the economy is gaining traction and stressed that the Fed is prepared to act if higher commodity prices start to have a negative effect on U.S. growth.[i] His comments also offered a brighter outlook on the status of rising energy costs, inflation risk, and job creation. Good news indeed!

While acknowledging that a prolonged rise in oil prices could pose a danger to the economic recovery, the Fed chief countered that other risks to the economy, including rising commodity prices, were more likely to affect consumer spending. At the same time, Bernanke reiterated his commitment to keeping inflation low, and added: “I recognize that the increases in gas prices are very troubling… but they are not inflation per se. Inflation is an increase in the overall price level, which is very low. The inflation rate right now is 1.2% for all goods and services”.[ii]

As for jobs, Bernanke expressed confidence that growth would increase this year.[iii] Supporting his view, the Labor Department announced on Friday that the nation’s unemployment rate fell to 8.9% in February, the lowest level in two years. The report suggests that companies are gaining confidence in the economy and their own financial prospects. It also strengthens hopes that businesses will shift into a more aggressive hiring mode to heighten momentum for the ongoing recovery.[iv]

Against the backdrop of geopolitical turmoil that has packed the headlines in recent weeks, the Fed chairman’s testimony offered a positive perspective on the improving state of the American recovery.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Monday – Consumer Credit Tuesday – ICSC-Goldman Store Sales, Redbook Wednesday – EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – BOE Announcement, International Trade, Jobless Claims, Treasury Budget Friday – Retail Sales, Consumer Sentiment, Business Inventories

Data as of 03/04/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	0.10	5.05	17.6	0.53	0.70
Dow	0.33	5.12	16.5	2.08	1.63
NASDAQ	0.13	4.97	21.5	4.19	3.15
MSCI EAFE	0.38	5.27	14.3	-0.26	2.46
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.42	3.31	3.61	4.68	4.94

On Tuesday, Apple Chief Steve Jobs introduced the world to the iPad2, a sleeker, faster follow-up to the original. The market sent shares of Research in Motion down 0.3%, and Motorola was down by over 4%. The new iPad2 sports front and back facing cameras, more memory, and a faster processor, but despite the upgrades, the iPad2 starts at $499, while Xoom tablets will run between $599 and $799.[v]

President Barack Obama said Saturday that he is willing to offer deeper spending cuts if it means Republicans and Democrats can work out their differences and reach an agreement on the federal budget. The standoff over government spending intensified this past week as Republicans ripped the White House’s offer to make $6.5 billion in budget cuts this fiscal year, and the threat of a government shutdown lay over the horizon. Government operations are now running on a stopgap funding measure that expires on March 19.[vi]

U.S. manufacturers expanded at the fastest pace in nearly seven years last month, but a sudden rise in the price of raw materials could threaten their profits. The Institute for Supply Management said its index of manufacturing activity rose to 61.4 in February, the highest reading since May 2004. But prices paid for steel, plastics, rubber and other raw materials rose for a third straight month, a sign that increasing production costs could spark higher inflation.[vii]

National Football League owners and players agreed Friday to a seven-day extension to contract talks in an effort to resolve the league’s labor dispute. The agreement means the CBA will remain in force until the night of March 11 and averts the threat of a lockout by the owners or a lawsuit by the players for at least a week. The owners were due to earn about $4 billion in TV money this coming season, even in the event of a lockout.[viii]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestioned ability of a man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.” – Henry David Thoreau
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Baked Brie

From: Better Homes and Gardens

The topping of tomato preserves or mango chutney over a round of baked Brie keeps this buffet table favorite lightweight and fresh flavored.

Servings: Makes 8 servings.

Prep: 25 mins

Total: 35 mins

Ingredients:

1 small onion, cut into thin wedges

2 teaspoons butter or margarine

1/3 cup tomato preserves or mango chutney

1/2 teaspoon snipped fresh rosemary or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed

1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1 8-ounce round Brie cheese (about 4 inches in diameter)

Breadsticks, assorted crackers, or French bread slices

Directions:

1. For caramelized onions, cook onion in hot butter or margarine in a small saucepan, covered, over low heat about 15 minutes or until tender and golden, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, stir together tomato preserves or mango chutney (cut up any large pieces of chutney), rosemary, and crushed red pepper in a small bowl.

2. Cut off a thin slice from the top of the Brie to remove the rind; discard. Place the Brie in an ungreased 9-inch pie plate. Top with tomato or chutney mixture, then with caramelized onions.

3. Bake, uncovered, in a 325 degree F oven about 10 to 12 minutes or until Brie is softened and warmed but not runny. Serve with breadsticks, crackers, or bread slices. Makes 8 servings.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Logo Lineup

One of the most common errors in putting is poor alignment. Specific sources of trouble can be posture, head position, or ball position. Many golfers have not trained their eyes to see the line correctly and are aiming their putter to the right or left of the hole without being aware of it.

The next time you head out to play or practice, try experimenting with lining up the logo or marked line. Start by practicing 2 or 3 footers to ensure that your aim is true. If you have aligned properly, you will see the logo turning straight over the top of the ball as it falls into the hole. Once you are comfortable with these short putts, begin to practice from longer distances.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[i] http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20110302-709100.html

[ii] http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/03/02/us-usa-fed-bernanke-highlights-idUSTRE7214KG20110302?pageNumber=1

[iii] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41845694/ns/business-stocks_and_economy/

[iv] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41903404/ns/business-stocks_and_economy/

[v] http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/119238/20110306/apple-ipad-2-ipad2-motorola-xoom-rim-playbook-touchpad.htm

[vi] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-budget-showdown-intensifies-2011-03-05

[vii] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41848045/ns/business-stocks_and_economy/

[viii] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/nfl-labor-talks-reach-critical-stage-2011-03-04

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Weekly Market Commentary – February 28, 2010

Posted on March 1, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of February 28, 2011 – SPECIAL EDITION

Oil and Gas on Higher Ground

As turmoil in the Middle East continues to roil the markets, it is no coincidence that “oil” is at the root of economic concerns. From an investment perspective, analyzing oil’s relationship to the markets is crucial, but the reality is that nearly everyone (investors and non-investors alike) are affected by oil prices. So what exactly is affecting the rise in oil costs? And, more importantly, do oil prices have the potential to derail America’s economic recovery?

After the fall of dictatorial governments in Tunisia and Egypt, unrest has spread throughout the Middle East, with Libya dominating the spotlight this week. The International Energy Agency reported late Friday that Libya is probably producing about 850,000 barrels of oil daily, down from its normal capacity of 1.6 million barrels, which represents just under 2% of the world’s oil supply. While the sudden oil shortage hits European refiners the hardest,[i] oil fears still caused the stock market to suffer its first weekly loss in a month. For the week, the S&P 500 slid 1.7%; the Dow dropped 2.1%, and the Nasdaq fell 1.9%.[ii] Happily, fears were eased somewhat on Friday when Saudi Arabia reported it has increased its crude oil production to 9 million barrels a day to make up for supplies lost in Libya.[iii]

What we’re seeing right now is a tug of war between worry and economic fundamentals. While most U.S. economic data looks good, investors are focused on the potential implications of interruptions in oil production. For the moment, this issue will dominate the headlines regardless of how attractive other data looks.
*Graph courtesy of http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/25/markets/oil/index.htm

U.S. drivers have already been feeling the pinch at the pump, with gas prices spiking 6 cents on Friday, the biggest one-day jump in two years. The national average price for a gallon of regular gas rose to $3.29, according to AAA, marking the fourth day in a row that prices have risen and bringing the national average to the highest level since October 2008. In general, every $1 increase in the price of oil costs consumers $1 billion over the course of a year.[iv] Higher oil prices also weigh on the U.S. economy by increasing the costs of moving goods,[v] thus transferring rising costs to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and eventually the American public.
*Graph courtesy of http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/25/news/economy/gas_price_spike/index.htm

If gas prices continue to rise as some analysts predict, how will this affect the economic recovery? Put simply, there is no way to know for sure. Granted, when gas prices go up, Americans have less to spend on everything else. And since consumer spending makes up over 70% of the U.S. economy[vi], a drop in spending could slow the recovery down. At the same time though, modest increases in fuel prices do not inevitably cause economic slowdowns. What they more often do is cause alarm, thus affecting consumers’ perceptions about what they can afford and causing them to react by tightening their belts.

So while the natural reaction may be to retreat to conservative investments and cut-off all spending on nonessentials, it is important to avoid overreacting. The coming week promises to shed more light on the true status of our domestic economy as various data related to jobs, payrolls, and manufacturing are released.[vii]

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Monday – Personal Income and Outlays, Chicago PMI, Pending Home Sales
Tuesday – Redbook, Construction Spending
Wednesday – ADP Employment Report, EIA Petroleum Status Report, Beige Book
Thursday – ECB Announcement, Jobless Claims, Productivity and Costs, ISM Non-Mfg Index Friday – Employment Situation, Factory Orders

Data as of 02/25/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-1.72	4.95	19.7	0.47	0.59
Dow	-2.10	4.78	17.5	1.93	1.62
NASDAQ	-1.87	4.83	24.5	4.32	2.29
MSCI EAFE	-1.49	4.77	17.7	1.44	2.40
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.59	N/A	3.64	4.57	5.08

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“The secret of happiness is freedom. The secret of freedom is courage.”– Thucydides

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Lemon Verbena Cookies

From: Better Homes and Gardens

Lemon verbena adds pleasant tang to these simple sugar cookies.

Servings: 36 cookies

Prep: 20 mins

Total: 28 mins

Ingredients

2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons dried lemon verbena leaves, crushed

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup butter (no substitutes), softened

1-1/2 cups sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions

1.Combine flour, lemon verbena leaves, baking powder, and salt; set aside. Beat butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until well combined. Add half of the flour mixture. Beat until combined. Stir in remaining flour mixture with a wooden spoon until combined.

2. Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks and cool. Makes 36.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Maintain Your Balance

Maintaining your balance is important in all sports. In golf, better balance throughout your swing insures a solid shot. Here are two ways to improve your balance, which in turn will improve your ball contact and control, thus leading to lower scores.

1) Limit the amount of force you use when hitting the ball. Too many golfers think they need to use all their strength to hit the ball and this causes severe control problems. The majority of golf professionals will tell you they only use about 75% of their strength when hitting and/or swinging at the ball.

In order to practice this, simply go to the driving range and try to develop the feeling you are only hitting and/or swinging at the ball with 75% of your power by:

A. Hitting balls with a 3/4 back swing
B. Hitting balls shorter distances, say 25% shorter.

2) Wear the slickest soled regular street shoes or boots possible whenever you practice (NOT spikes or golf shoes). It’s amazing how fast you learn to swing within yourself, keep in balance and maintain control when NOT doing so could cause you to lose your balance.

*Stock investing involves market risk including loss of principal. The fast price swings of commodities will result in significant volatility in an investor’s holdings. Government bonds and Treasury Bills are guaranteed by the US Government as to the timely payment of principal and interest and, if held to maturity, offer a fixed rate of return and fixed principal value.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

[i]http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hYoyif7KWMVcuNnmsT9eJ7tcTxtw?docId=09faacc3557c4a43999d1d9e7f84a960

[ii] http://www.cnbc.com/id/41789345

[iii] http://www.nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=201102270952dowjonesdjonline000207&title=saudi-arabia-producing-9-million-b/d-officials

[iv] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/26/news/economy/gas_prices/index.htm

[v] http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41777313/ns/business-stocks_and_economy/

[vi] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-01-31/consumer-spending-in-u-s-advances-more-than-estimated-as-incomes-increase.html

[vii] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stock-market-looks-to-data-diversion-2011-02-26

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Atlanta, GA. – Financial Advisor

Posted on February 17, 2011 by philcalandra

WiserAdvisor Press Release

02/17/2011

WiserAdvisor announces that Phil Calandra RFC® of Calandra Financial Group, LLC has been awarded admittance as a member of its directory of financial advisors.

Financial advisors are granted admission into WiserAdvisor (www.wiseradvisor.com) based on their credentials and qualifications. All members offer their services to investors with a fee rather than solely with commissions, allowing them to assist investors with a variety of different investment options. All members are also properly registered with the SEC, FINRA or other regulatory organizations.

Since 2003, WiserAdvisor has focused on taking much of the guesswork out of finding a qualified financial advisor or financial planner. This is done both through the stringent admittance guidelines, as well as through the information provided to investors about each member advisor. All members must complete an extensive profile outlining their services, qualifications and credentials, including their education background.

Because of the strict standards that a financial professional must meet in order to become a member, WiserAdvisor only admits a select few high-quality financial advisors and financial planners. More than 600,000 professionals can provide insurance and financial advice. Less than 1% have been granted membership into WiserAdvisor.

Thousands of investors use WiserAdvisor each year to find local financial advisors and planners, and trust that WiserAdvisor will help them find the right professionals to meet their unique needs.

About WiserAdvisor.com

WiserAdvisor is an online service that connects investors to local financial advisors and financial planners. It is an independent and free service provided to investors, allowing them to find local professionals who can help them build their portfolios, plan for retirement, manage their estates, or to help them with other investment issues. More information about WiserAdvisor and its services can be found atwww.wiseradvisor.com

About Calandra Financial Group, LLC

Phil Calandra RFC® is a financial advisor located in Atlanta, GA. Phil has over 15 years experience working with local businesses and investors.
More information about Phil can be found athttp://www.wiseradvisor.com/advisor_profile_state~id~1857213.asp and athttp://www.calandrafinancialgroup.com

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Weekly Market Commentary – 2/14/2011

Posted on February 15, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of February 14, 2011

THE MARKETS:

Wall Street started last week holding its breath while waiting to see whether Hosni Mubarak would step down as Egypt’s president. Bowing to pro-democracy protests, Mubarak resigned on Friday, ending 30 years of authoritarian rule in the Middle East’s most populous country.[1]

As fireworks burst over Cairo’s Tahrir Square, there was a collective sigh of relief on Wall Street, while the benchmark averages rose to finish Friday’s session with weekly gains. U.S. stocks climbed to fresh 2 1/2-year closing highs after the resignation of Mubarak removed a layer of uncertainty from global markets.[2] The Dow had a weekly advance of 1.5%, while the S&P 500 rose 1.4% and the Nasdaq added 1.5%.

Analysts and investors agree that Mubarak’s resignation dramatically reduces geopolitical risk and uncertainty from the region.[3] Reflecting this, oil prices fell following the news in Egypt, with crude dropping to $85.16 a barrel in midday trading Friday. Other dollar-denominated commodities, including gold and silver, also drifted lower following Mubarak’s resignation. Gold prices slid $5.30, settling at $1,357.20 an ounce.[4]

On another topic, how does starting a new week on St. Valentine’s Day traditionally affect the markets? Interestingly, the “day of love” hasn’t customarily shown much “love” to investors; at least when using the S&P 500 index as a gauge. According to Howard Silverblatt, a senior index analyst at S&P Indices, going back to 1928, February 14 trading days only notched gains on the S&P 38.7% of the time against a historical daily rate of 52.03%. Here’s an interesting caveat though – in looking at the 11 Valentine’s Days that occurred on the first trading day of the week, the S&P 500 logged a gain 63.4% of the time.[5] While we’re certainly not trying to make a prediction, it is interesting to see what history can teach us about market behaviors.

From war and peace one week, to love and chocolates the next, it just goes to show that almost any world event has potential to affect people’s investments. Like everything in life, weathering all the little ups and downs requires intelligence, patience, and a cool head.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Tuesday – Retail Sales, Empire State Mfg. Survey, Import and Export Prices, Redbook, Treasury International Capital, Business Inventories, Housing Market Index Wednesday – Housing Starts, Producer Price Index, Industrial Production, EIA Petroleum Status Report, FOMC Minutes
Thursday – Consumer Price Index, Jobless Claims, Industrial Production, Leading Indicators, Philadelphia Fed Survey

Data as of 02/11/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	1.39	5.69	23.2	0.98	0.11
Dow	1.50	6.01	20.9	2.48	1.38
NASDAQ	1.45	5.90	29.0	4.84	1.37
MSCI EAFE	0.07	4.48	17.6	1.71	N/A
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.65	N/A	3.73	4.58	5.02

HEADLINES:
Pandora Media Inc., filed papers Friday to raise as much as $100 million in an initial public offering of stock. Pandora offers an Internet service that creates playlists of songs based on user feedback. The Oakland, Calif.-based company said it now has more than 80 million registered users, and “a more than 50% share of all Internet radio listening time among the top 20 stations and networks in the United States.”[6]

The euro fell to a three-week low against the dollar as speculation increased that Portugal will follow Ireland in tapping the European Financial Stability Facility. Yields on 10-year Portuguese debt climbed on Feb. 10 to 7.64 percent, the highest level since the introduction of the euro in 1999.[7]

U.S. consumer sentiment rose to its highest level in eight months in early February, boosted by recent tax cuts and optimism about the economy. The preliminary February reading for the overall index on consumer sentiment came in at 75.1, up from 74.2 in January, the highest level since June 2010.[8]

The Commerce Department says the deficit in December increased 5.9% to $40.6 billion. It grew because the 2.6% gain in imports outpaced the 1.8% rise in exports. For 2010, the U.S. trade deficit rose to $497.8 billion, a 32.8% surge and the biggest annual percentage gain since 2000.[9]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge.” – Thomas Carlyle

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Six-Layer Brownie Bars

From: Betty Crocker

Layers of decadence over easy-mix brownie batter create this ultimate brownie bar.

Servings: 36 bars

Prep: 20 mins

Total: 3 hrs 10 mins

Ingredients:

1 box Betty Crocker® Original Supreme brownie mix (1 pound 6.5 ounces)

1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted

1 egg

1 cup coconut

1 cup toffee bits

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup chopped pecans

1 can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated, 14 ounces)

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottom only of 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray or shortening. (For easier cutting, line pan with foil, then grease foil on bottom only of pan.)

2. In large bowl, stir brownie mix, pouch of chocolate syrup, butter and egg until well blended. Press into pan. Bake 10 minutes.

3. Top with coconut, toffee bits, chocolate chips and pecans. Drizzle evenly with condensed milk. Bake 35 to 40 minutes longer or until edges are bubbly and center is set. Cool completely, about 2 hours. For bars, cut into 9 rows by 4 rows.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

SET YOUR ALIGNMENT

Many shots that are hit to the right or left get blamed on the swing when they are actually a product of poor alignment. In order to hit the ball at a target, you must line up correctly.

Before hitting, stand behind your ball about 3 to 5 feet so it is between you and your intended target. Now pick an object on the ground no more than two feet in front of the ball, (a golf tee, blade of grass, leaf, or anything else) that lies on the imaginary line that goes from your ball to your intended target.

Walk up and address the ball while pretending the object on the ground is your target. Align the lines on your club face so they are perpendicular to the object. Do not even look at your real target until you have established your address, and then be sure not to change your stance.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[1] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/wall-street-looks-to-less-anxious-week-2011-02-12

[2] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-12/dollar-advances-as-egypt-european-debt-stoke-demand-for-safety.html

[3] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/11/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[4] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/11/markets/food_prices_commodities/index.htm

[5] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/wall-street-looks-to-less-anxious-week-2011-02-12

[6] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/internet-music-firm-pandora-files-for-ipo-2011-02-11

[7] http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-12/dollar-advances-as-egypt-european-debt-stoke-demand-for-safety.html

[8] http://www.cnbc.com/id/41530980

[9] http://www.cnbc.com/id/41529859

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Weekly Market Commentary – 2/7/2011

Posted on February 7, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of February 7, 2011

THE MARKETS:

In spite of ongoing turmoil in Egypt and the Middle East, the markets continued their gain last week. For the period ending February 4th, the Dow rose 2.3%, the S&P 500 gained 2.7%, and the Nasdaq climbed 3.1%[1] reflecting elevated optimism in the markets. The AAII Sentiment Survey for last week shows that 51.5% of investors are feeling bullish, up 9.5% from the week of January 24th. That’s well above the historical average of 39%.[2]

Indeed, this optimism is even more remarkable in light of last week’s jobs report which has been subject to conflicting opinions and interpretations. Case in point: According to a MarketWatch headline from Friday, the “job crisis isn’t over”,[3] while a cnnmoney.com headline from the same day touted that, “the job market is getting better.”[4] Each headline could be considered accurate, but clearly they offer different slants. Though the rate of hiring did not show a notable increase, the unemployment rate still fell to 9.0%[5] – bad news and good news at the same time. Some analysts predict that bad weather across the U.S. is partially to blame, with more than 850,000 workers prevented from working at the time the survey was conducted.[6] Other explanations have also been cited, and as a result, it appears that many are waiting for February’s report for clarification before jumping to conclusions.

Recent events, both within the U.S. and internationally, illustrate a noteworthy aspect of investing: It is impossible to predict how the stock market will react to news. Such an optimistic week in light of Egyptian strife and a conflicting jobs report is a pleasant surprise. It seems that the market has had time to price in geopolitical risks in Egypt and sluggish jobs growth and found such factors to be no immediate threat.[7] Clearly, the headlines and the stock market do not always move in tandem. This is a good fact to remember when evaluating how much credence should be given to sensational news reports.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR

Tuesday – Redbook
Wednesday – Bank Reserve Settlement, EIA Petroleum Status
Thursday – BOE Announcement, Jobless Claims, Wholesale Trades, Treasury Budget Friday – International Trade, Consumer Sentiment

Data as of 02/04/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	2.71	4.23	23.3	0.74	-0.29
Dow	2.27	4.45	20.9	2.41	1.13
NASDAQ	3.07	4.39	30.3	4.48	0.41
MSCI EAFE	3.16	3.93	15.7	-0.41	1.56
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.33	N/A	3.61	4.53	5.14

HEADLINES:

The Green Bay Packers won its fourth Superbowl title in a 31-25 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Vince Lombardi Trophy is headed back to Titletown for the first time in 14 years.[8]

Super Bowl-related consumer spending will reach $10.1 billion this year, the National Retail Federation says. The Washington-based trade group cites a survey conducted by its Retail Advertising and Marketing Association division that says the average consumer will spend $59.33 on game-related merchandise, apparel and snacks, up from $52.63 last year.[9]

Hackers have repeatedly penetrated the computers running Nasdaq during the past year. Though the exchange’s trading platform was not violated and no information has been compromised, a federal investigation is underway.[10]

Businesses’ unemployment-insurance payments rose 37% in 2010. Last year, the amount employers paid into state unemployment-insurance funds rose 34%. Combined with the increase in total wages, businesses paid out $43 billion.[11]

On Friday, Bank of America appointed a new foreclosure and loan modifications czar, and created a new unit to oversee problem home loans. The new unit creates a seventh major division at the bank and will be overseen by Terry Laughlin. The move splits the largest U.S. bank by assets’ mortgage business: one focused on new and current mortgages, and another dedicated to foreclosures.[12]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” –Winston Churchill

RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Roasted Pepper and Artichoke Pizza

From: Diabetic Living

Artichoke hearts and goat cheese make this chicken pizza good for entertaining. It’s meant to be a main dish but it could also be a party appetizer.

Servings: 8 servings

Prep: 15 mins

Total: 35 mins

Ingredients:

1 6- to 6-1/2-ounce package pizza crust mix

1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil, crushed

1/2 cup pizza sauce

1 cup coarsely chopped or shredded cooked chicken (about 5 ounces)

1 6-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped

1 cup roasted red and/or yellow sweet peppers, cut into strips

1/4 cup sliced green onions or chopped red onion

1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (2 ounces)

4 ounces semisoft goat cheese (chevre), crumbled

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Grease a large baking sheet; set aside. Prepare pizza crust according to package directions, except stir oregano into dry mix. With floured hands, pat dough into a 15×10-inch rectangle on prepared baking sheet, building up edges slightly (crust will be thin). Bake for 7 minutes.

2. Spread pizza sauce evenly over crust. Top with chicken, artichokes, roasted peppers, and green onion. Top with mozzarella cheese and goat cheese.

3. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes more or until edges of crust are golden brown. Makes 8 servings.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

WRIST ACTION

Be careful not to flex the wrists when chipping and putting. Golfers usually do not even realize they are flexing their wrists during these shots. When this happens, controlling distance becomes almost impossible, loft will be incorrect at impact, and putts lose true roll and consistent distance control.

Always keep your wrist solid and avoid flexing them for putts or chip shots. This is imperative to achieve consistency.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[1] www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stocks-rise-extending-weekly-gains-to-2-2011-02-04?dist=afterbell

[2] www.aaii.com/SentimentSurvey

[3] http://www.marketwatch.com/story/only-thing-we-know-is-job-crisis-isnt-over-2011-02-04?dist=afterbell

[4] http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/news/economy/unemployment_decline_mystery/index.htm

[5] www.money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/news/economy/unemployment_decline_mystery/index.htm

[6] www.marketwatch.com/story/only-thing-we-know-is-job-crisis-isnt-over-2011-02-04?dist=afterbell

[7] www.money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm

[8] http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/41450378/ns/sports-super_bowl_xlv/

[9] http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2011/02/06/super-bowl-consumer-spending-to-top-10b.html

[10]www.online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704709304576124502351634690.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

[11] www.blogs.wsj.com/economics/2011/02/05/number-of-the-week-businesses-unemployment-taxes-rise/

[12] www.cnbc.com/id/41430991

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Weekly Market Commentary – January 24, 2011

Posted on January 31, 2011 by philcalandra

Weekly Market Update
Week of January 24, 2011

THE MARKETS:

While the recovery continues to burn brighter, it’s no thanks to the rising cost of gasoline. Most consumers are cringing over prices at the pump and, as a nationwide economic marker, it affects nearly everyone.

Gas prices hit almost $3.12/gallon on Friday, less than a dollar below the all-time high of about $4.11/gallon in July 2008.[1] Current prices have risen 12 cents a gallon (4%) in the last month alone and 39 cents (14%) over the last year. Crude oil has risen on a similar track and is currently trading at just under $90 a barrel.[2]

Though American consumers are paying the price, international oil demand and lack of supply are primarily responsible for the rising cost. Last year, worldwide demand hit a record of more than 87 million barrels a day, largely driven by strong growth in India, China, and the Middle East. Simultaneously, supply was constricted by the drilling moratorium in the Gulf of Mexico following the BP disaster, slow production growth in non-OPEC countries, and OPEC production controls.[3]

Gas prices are proving to be a critical, but unpredictable element in the economic recovery. Analysts are predicting prices to range from $3.20 to $3.75/gallon by spring, just when Americans typically hit the road.[4] Just as positive consumer sentiment can be tempered by the daily reminders of rising prices, there is also an unknown tipping point for when those prices take a toll on spending.[5]

While all this talk about rising gas prices may have you feeling less than enthusiastic, the overall economic outlook is still positive and the stock market is performing well. While some indexes fell slightly for the week, the Dow climbed 0.72%, continuing its longest winning streak since April of last year.[6] At least for now, rising gas prices aren’t creating a significant drag on the economic recovery.

ECONOMIC CALENDAR:
Tuesday – Redbook, S&P Case Shiller HPI, Consumer Confidence
Wednesday – New Home Sales, EIA Petroleum Status Report
Thursday – Durable Goods Orders, Jobless Claims, Pending Home Sales Friday – GDP, Employment Cost Index, Consumer Sentiment

Data as of 01/21/2011	1-Week	YTD	1-Year	5-Year	10-Year
Standard & Poor’s 500	-0.76	2.04	14.9	0.35	-0.44
Dow	0.72	2.54	14.3	2.26	1.21
NASDAQ	-2.39	1.38	18.7	3.93	-0.29
MSCI EAFE	-0.35	1.83	7.12	-0.43	1.32
10-year Treasury Note (Yield Only)	3.33	N/A	3.61	4.36	5.17

HEADLINES:

Facebook raised $1.5 billion from Goldman Sachs and Digital Sky Technologies, giving the company an estimated value of $50 billion. Facebook confirmed that it will begin filing public financial reports by April 2012, a move likely indicative of an IPO.[7]

A 1963 Pontiac ambulance that supposedly carried the body of President John F. Kennedy after his assassination was sold at a Scottsdale, Ariz., auction Saturday night for $132,000.[8]

Existing home sales jumped 12% in December, the fifth month of gains in the past six months. While the rates are higher than expected, the median price of homes has fallen by 1% and is still down 2.9% from a year ago.[9]

Thirty-second advertising spots for 2011’s Super Bowl XLV will cost about $3 million each. This year’s ads contain a record number from the auto industry, while the largest advertisers include Anheuser-Busch and Dot-com firms. Many will include online features with contest components.[10]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“There is no such thing in anyone’s life as an unimportant day.” – Alexander Woollcott
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Gorgonzola and Toasted Walnut Spread

From: Betty Crocker
The fabulous flavor of toasted walnuts infuses every bite of this rich and creamy spread.

Servings: 16 servings (2 tablespoons spread and 2 bread or fruit slices each).

Total: 10 mins

Ingredients:

1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese

1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounce)

3 tablespoons half-and-half

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

French bread slices

Apple and pear slices
Directions:

1. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the Gorgonzola cheese for garnish. In food processor, place cream cheese, remaining Gorgonzola cheese, half-and-half and pepper. Cover and process until blended.

2. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the walnuts for garnish. Stir remaining walnuts into cheese mixture. Spoon into shallow serving bowl. Sprinkle with reserved Gorgonzola cheese, walnuts and the parsley. Serve with bread slices and apple slices.

GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK:

Cut the Tension

Tension in your golf swing can cause you to lose distance and accuracy. By executing certain fundamentals correctly, tension is avoided.

At a basic level you can decrease tension by working on a proper grip. A grip that has proper tension is achieved by doing the following: Place the grip in the fingers of both hands. With the bottom hand, start the grip in the middle of the fingers. Avoid the palm. Also, place the thumb of the top hand off to the side, away from the target, and place the bottom thumb on the other side of the grip, closest to the target. The thumbs have many nerves at the tips. If the thumbs run directly down the center of the grip, you trigger those nerves. The arms tense up and you now have tension.

Your goal should be to achieve a light grip. If you maintain a light grip during the swing, you will avoid any swing characteristics that cause tension. If you use a tight grip then you also tense your forearm muscles, and this automatically opens the face of the club causing pushed shots.

Parting thought… RELAX.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq. The DJIA was invented by Charles Dow back in 1896.

Google Finance is the source for any reference to the performance of an index between two specific periods.

Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

[1] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/news/economy/thebuzz/index.htm

[2] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/markets/gasoline_prices_rising/index.htm

[3] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/markets/gasoline_prices_rising/index.htm

[4] www.abcnews.go.com/Business/t/story?id=12731383

[5] www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/01/22/earlyshow/saturday/main7271761.shtml

[6] http://blogs.wsj.com/marketbeat/2011/01/21/data-points-us-markets-340/

[7] www.money.cnn.com/2011/01/21/technology/facebook_funding/