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.

An Important Clue in McDonald’s Same Store Sales

By Traders Reserve Sep 11, 2012

Same-store sales at McDonald's declined just over 20 basis points from estimates, not enough for a significant worry to investors...at least not just yet.

Hedge Funds Are Doing Terribly This Year

By Ed Elfenbein, Editor of Crossing Wall Street Sep 11, 2012

Hedge fund managers are not producing returns that either significantly or at times even match, those returns for investors in buy and hold.

Enjoy the Rally: Super Mario’s Bazooka Is a Dud

By Keith Fitz-Gerald Sep 8, 2012

Mario Draghi and the ECB have put together a plan that looks suspiciously like many others, and it's doomed to a short life span of success

Kmart to Offer Free Online and In-Store Layaway

By Angela Nazworth, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 7, 2012

On Friday, Kmart announced it will be removing its layaway service fee both online and in-store starting Sept. 7 through Nov. 17.

CEOs and Corporations: In Bed With the IRS

By Will Ashworth, InvestorPlace Contributor Sep 7, 2012

A new report from the Institute for Political Studies shows it's even worse than you think. While CEOs are getting more, companies are paying less

Fortune: America’s Fastest Growing Companies 2012

By Angela Nazworth, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 7, 2012

Fortune recently released its annual list of the world's 100 fastest growing companies. Here's a look at the top ten.

ECB Opens Spigot on Bond-Buying Program

By Bryan Perry Sep 7, 2012

ECB leaders came to an agreement for a way to stabilize the euro and keep the eurozone intact, all of which helped U.S. markets on Thursday.

Australia Looks Ugly After Latest Data Dump

By Jeff Reeves Sep 6, 2012

Australia may be one of the world's strongest economies, but it's looking sluggish right about now and investors should be cautious.

Bill Gross Gives More Eye-Rolling Advice

By Dan Burrows, InvestorPlace Feature Writer Sep 6, 2012

Bill Gross' missive this month is elementary to say the least -- especially coming from a guy managing hundreds of billions of dollars in assets.

Tooth Fairy Spending: The Going Rate of a Lost Tooth 2012

By Angela Nazworth, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 6, 2012

A survey released by Visa shows that the Tooth Fairy is leaving behind more money when collecting tiny teeth.

Northern Rock vs. Gold Was No Contest

By BullionVault Sep 6, 2012

U.S. investors looking for a cautionary tale would be advised to read further as the exploits of a now-defunct mortgage company compare to gold investors

Don’t Be a Victim of the Next Zeekler.com

By Angela Nazworth, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 5, 2012

Ponzi schemes have swindled billions of hard-earned dollars from even the most intelligent investors. Here's how you can avoid becoming another mark.

Popcorn Crops Feel Midwest Drought Squeeze

By Christopher Freeburn, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 5, 2012

The drought in the Midwest is reducing the corn harvest and raising prices for popcorn, though movie theaters may be reluctant to raise already high prices.

Fall Leaves and Stocks Dropping

By Richard Band Sep 5, 2012

As the season changes we are making similar change to our portfolio including rotating out of PEP and into KO

Toys R Us Waives Fee for Layaway Program

By Angela Nazworth, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 4, 2012

Toys “R” Us announced that its holiday layaway program will no longer include upfront service fees from now through October 31.

Burger King Reveals 7 New Menu Items for Fall 2012

By Angela Nazworth, InvestorPlace Writer Sep 4, 2012

Burger King is launching new limited-time-only menu items, and like its rival, McDonald's, the burger chain is diverting its attention from beef to chicken.