The crumbling of the print media has been in the works for years, maybe even decades since the launch of the world wide web.  With a struggling economy, the demise of the print media has intensified.  The terrible business environment has already claimed several victims and forcing others like the WSJ to innovate and find a viable web strategy.
The latest move by our idiotic political leaders is to perhaps tax web sites like the drudge report and other news aggregators in redistribution attempt to funnel funds into the more traditional …

When it comes to building secondary income streams, the web is your best friend.  Even if you’re not a techie or a web guy, the web is still your best friend.  The reason for this is because the web can multiple your efforts and your income.  Let’s look at an example.
Let’s say that your a fantastic auto mechanic, and you bring in some extra income for your family on the side doing auto-work.  The problem is that you’re limited with your time and you can only bring in money based …

Many people explain stock market investing similar to owning an actual business, because in essence, when you buy and hold a share of a company, that is considered ownership.  Well, in today’s market with thousands of trading strategies, I definitely don’t consider all forms of stock market activity “ownership.”  Let’s look at this idea a little further.
When you consider starting a business or maybe buying a stake in a business, what is your motivation? I believe most people buy into a business because they believe in the business model and …

If you read this blog, you know I’m incredibly bearish on the U.S. economy as a whole moving forward.  If you don’t typically read this blog, then go through some of the other posts to read why.  I feel it is important to say amidst all this bearish talk that there are definite opportunities available today and in the future despite this bleak macroeconomic view.  This is your motivation to keep moving forward.
It’s important to realize that even when the macro economy as a whole is struggling, there are still …

I like to report on good (or bad) experiences with businesses that might be very well known and some others that aren’t so well known.  First, let’s go with the good experiences…
I recently decided to cancel my DirecTV plan for my television.  This has nothing to do with DirecTV however, since the service has been phenomenal.  Instead, I decided to go with Comcast since I’m already paying for it partially with my HOA dues.  Upon notifying DirecTV, they offered me several deals to remain as a customer, which is nice, …

Depending upon your circumstances, you might be really in a funk right now or really moving forward with a pep in your step.  If you’re unemployed and struggling to find any meaningful work, it’s probably difficult to discuss motivation since you’re just aiming for survival.  On the other hand, if you’re financial life is stabilizing or improving, maybe it’s time to start looking at the motivation in your life.
So, what motivates you?  A paycheck?  Satisfying a customer?  Building relationships?  Building up money for a down payment?  Starting a business?  Getting …

From my perspective, the “recovery” seems to be confined mostly to the large Corporations.  Companies like Cisco (CSCO), McDonalds (MCD) , Pfizer (PFE), etc. all are coming out with decent earnings.  Furthermore, even companies that have major issues ahead (in my opinion) such as Brunswick Corporation (BC) (boat manufacturer) and Simon Property Group (SPG) (commercial real estate) are able to stay afloat due to their ability to get financing.  You can also add a number of large U.S. banks to such a list.
Large Corporations are able to sell shares to …

I love marketing, especially the idea of powerful brands.  There are many brands that appeal to me, but there are a few with supernatural power over me!  What about you?
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
Man, I tell you what.  I love me some Starbucks.  Yes, I’m aware it’s a rip-off, but there are times when I need that $4 latte.  Yes, I know that it’s pretty much entirely emotional and therefore, controllable.  But, when I’m in the mood and I drive by and see the beautiful green circle with that weird lady in …