This year’s World Bank Doing Business report has listed the top nine countries for startup businesses. The rankings consider the starting ease and conditions, as well as minimum cost, time and available assets. Rather surprisingly, the U.S. didn’t make the list. These countries did, however: New Zealand, with 1 day to start a business Australia,… Continue Reading
According to Joerg Asmussen, executive board member of the European Central Bank, it is now time for the ECB to begin planning its “exit strategy” from the unprecedented support the bank has used to prop up banks during the recent, and ongoing, debt crisis. “The time for an exit depends on what happens on the… Continue Reading
The Federal Reserve is still debating whether or not to embark on a third phase of quantitative easing, shorthand QE3, said William Dudley New York Fed president, a close confidant of Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke. Dudley believes that the economy’s recovery is still fragile, despite the recent signs of improvement. If not handled properly… Continue Reading
Despite global retail struggles and general confusion, the high-end luxury market in China appears to be peaking. In 2010, luxury goods sales raked in 212 billion yuan, growing an additional 25-30% in 2011. More than 60% of the retail burst was a result of designer brands like Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Christian Dior, Burberry, Prada and Gucci,… Continue Reading
Bolthouse Farms, producer of vegetable juices, is owned by a Chicago-based buyout firm, Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC. According to three individuals privy to knowledge on the issue, it appears that Madison Dearborn is at the moment considering either a sale of Bolthouse, or going public with an initial public offering. Madison Dearborn has owned Bolthouse… Continue Reading
Diary of a Hedge Fund Manager, by Keith McCullough and Rich Blake, discusses the hedge fund industry and provides an insider perspective on asset management. Some of the most memorable quotes include: "I might not have fully appreciated the value of preparation, but I’ve since found it trumps all else, in sports or business." "By… Continue Reading
Thinking about getting involved in a new business venture? Here are a few which are perfect for today’s current events, whether you are trying to beat the dragging economy or flow with what’s popular, consider the following as a great way to get into business. 1. Selling Candy- Even during difficult economic times candy is… Continue Reading
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said in a pre-recorded speech delivered at the convention of Independent Community Bankers of America that, despite the slow improvement of the US economy, American community banks are developing and getting stronger. The remarks were broadcast on a video monitor at the convention of community bankers held earlier this week… Continue Reading
The alternative investment industry includes hedge funds, funds of funds, managed future funds and others. Alternative investments are unconventional investment products, unlike other investments which generally focus on assets like property, cash and stocks. According to Managed Fund Association, “Alternative investment managers are distinguished by their objective to deliver absolute returns, regardless of market conditions.… Continue Reading
Tuesday’s strong rally on Wall Street was the signal for the rest of the world to push up markets in anticipation of a continued improvement in the US economy. In Japan investors stimulated their nation’s benchmark to a point higher than it’s been in seven months, while oil floated just under $107 per barrel. The… Continue Reading