Market Insight

Markets rarely move at random. InvestorPlace’s leading analysts break down macro trends, sector dynamics, and recurring market patterns to help investors understand what is changing, what matters most, and where opportunities may emerge.

5 Buyer Strategies to Survive Today’s Real Estate Market

With a real estate market this hot, today’s buyer needs a sound strategy. Here are five that can help you successfully compete with other offers.

News Corp to Pay Sarah Ferguson, Other Celebs Over Phone-Hacking

News Corp has settled 17 more cases in the ongoing phone-hacking scandal that has plagued the company.

Restaurant Rewards Well-Behaved Kids

A family in Washington was surprised to find that the restaurant where they dined gave them a discount for having well-behaved kids.

5 Red Flags Auditors Will Look For in Your 2012 Tax Return

Most Americans think their chance of an audit is slim, and that’s not altogether untrue. Still, the IRS watches these five items on your return like a hawk.

So I’ve Decided to Invest … Now What?

This new series will explore the steps you'll want to take when you decide to take the investing plunge.

USPS: Government-Run Businesses Can’t Compete

And that creates profitable openings for smart investors. Here's how to profit from the government's innate inability to make money.

How Much Richard Branson Makes From Virgin Media’s Purchase

British billionaire Richard Branson stands to make about $316 million from Liberty Global's $16 billion acquisition of Virgin Media.

Pension Liabilities: They’re Investors’ Problem, Too

Low interest rates cutting at corporations' pensions, causing those companies to use up cash to fill the gap or risk expense hits.

Feds Sue Standard & Poor’s for Fraud — Moody’s, Fitch Next?

Standard & Poor's might have been the first target in the federal government's crosshairs over bogus ratings, but it's not the last -- Moody's and Fitch are next.

Billionaire John Malone Makes a Power Move

Liberty Global and John Malone are looking looks to make an acquisition of Virgin Media, which could put pressure on rival network BSkyB.

Paul Krugman May Be the World’s Last Flat Earth Economist

Dr. Paul Krugman's ideas on how to turn the economy around could use a little dose of reality, and the correct way to move forward is let private markets lead

Crude at $100: Why You Should Care

Crude oil is now reaching critical psychological levels, with WTI benchmark crude nearing the $100-level. Here's what it means for investors and consumers.

Subprime Student Debt Is a Huge Red Flag

The effects of this troubling trend are far-reaching ... and lots of sectors could feel the pain.

Consumers Paying Record Gas Prices for February

Gas prices have risen to their highest recorded level for early February as crude oil prices rise and refineries shut down.

The Wide World of Sports Investing

If you're missing the excitement of sports after Sunday's Super Bowl, the finance world offers you plenty of sports-related stocks ... you just might pick a winner for your portfolio.

The 5 Best Super Bowl XLVII Ads

The best commercials from Super Bowl XLVII ranged from touching to hilarious. Here's a look at the five best.

Barclays CEO Jenkins Buys Goodwill With Common Sense

Antony Jenkins' refusal to accept a bonus may be an obvious PR ploy, but who cares? His nod to the bank's misdeeds is refreshing.

Applebee’s Waitress Fired Over Pastor’s Receipt

Chelsea Welch -- the Applebee's waitress who shared a photo of a meal check with a snide comment from a pastor -- has been fired by the chain.

Top 10 Buzzed-About Brands in 2012

Consumer perception doesn't always help stock performance, but it sure can't hurt. Take a look at the most buzzed-about brands in the U.S. for 2012.