There are a lot of trust mutual funds out there, but only some of them deserve your consideration. The basics of trust mutual funds, as well as those funds worth investing in, are highlighted below. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Everybody Into The Pool - There are a lot of trust mutual funds out there, but only some of them deserve your consideration. The basics of trust mutual funds, as well as those funds worth investing in, are highlighted below.

To make it clear from the get-go, we don't recommend mutual funds in the Mutual Fund Portfolio that we won't hold for more than a year. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Funds for the Long Term - To make it clear from the get-go, we don't recommend mutual funds in the Mutual Fund Portfolio that we won't hold for more than a year.

If you could hold any fund you’d like in 401(k) right now (see p. 12), which would it be? There are more mutual funds than stocks traded in the US—more than 10,000 funds. Here are three gems that stand out. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - If you could hold any fund you’d like in 401(k) right now (see p. 12), which would it be? There are more mutual funds than stocks traded in the US—more than 10,000 funds. Here are three gems that stand out.

If you’re a mutual fund investor, you’re spoiled for choice—after a decade of strong fund inflows and aggressive marketing by fund families, there are more mutual funds than stocks (see graph below). And the fund boom hasn’t ended with the Nasdaq bull market—there’s still a steady stream of new funds competing for your attention. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Fund du Jour - If you’re a mutual fund investor, you’re spoiled for choice—after a decade of strong fund inflows and aggressive marketing by fund families, there are more mutual funds than stocks (see graph below). And the fund boom hasn’t ended with the Nasdaq bull market—there’s still a steady stream of new funds competing for your attention.

If you ask your broker for a bank stock, chances are he/she will stick to the usual suspects (e.g., Bank of America, Citigroup). The severely misguided may point you to Fifth Third or Washington Mutual. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Small Change Banks - If you ask your broker for a bank stock, chances are he/she will stick to the usual suspects (e.g., Bank of America, Citigroup). The severely misguided may point you to Fifth Third or Washington Mutual.

•  The Canadian income trust market is undeniably hot—and the marketing arms of financial institutions have surely noted this fact. Numerous new trust mutual funds have debuted during the last six months, many to take advantage of current investor sentiment and to capitalize on Canadian rules governing pension investing. Before you jump into an income trust mutual fund, be aware that, as passive foreign investment companies, the distributions paid by CANADIAN TRUST MUTUAL FUNDS AREN’T QUALIFIED FOR US PURPOSES AND ARE TAXED AT NORMAL RATES, NOT THE LOWER 15 PERCENT RATE. We continue to favor individual trusts for this and many other reasons.   The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Advisory - •  The Canadian income trust market is undeniably hot—and the marketing arms of financial institutions have surely noted this fact. Numerous new trust mutual funds have debuted during the last six months, many to take advantage of current investor sentiment and to capitalize on Canadian rules governing pension investing. Before you jump into an income trust mutual fund, be aware that, as passive foreign investment companies, the distributions paid by CANADIAN TRUST MUTUAL FUNDS AREN’T QUALIFIED FOR US PURPOSES AND ARE TAXED AT NORMAL RATES, NOT THE LOWER 15 PERCENT RATE. We continue to favor individual trusts for this and many other reasons.  

Mutual funds are not for trading. They’re for building long-term wealth with low volatility. For example, the Personal Finance mutual fund portfolio was down 6 percent in 2002 with the S&P 500 down 22 percent, while this year we’re matching the market’s stellar performance. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - Mutual funds are not for trading. They’re for building long-term wealth with low volatility. For example, the Personal Finance mutual fund portfolio was down 6 percent in 2002 with the S&P 500 down 22 percent, while this year we’re matching the market’s stellar performance.

There are about 8,000 mutual funds out there, but only a few great ones. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Funds For The Long Term - There are about 8,000 mutual funds out there, but only a few great ones.

Although the mutual fund game is mainly all about marketing, some are worth a second look. We details a few trust mutual funds that provide fairly diversified portfolios in many of Canada's hottest sectors. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A Matter Of Trust - Although the mutual fund game is mainly all about marketing, some are worth a second look. We details a few trust mutual funds that provide fairly diversified portfolios in many of Canada's hottest sectors.

With close to 100 different stocks, bonds and funds highlighted in the Personal Finance portfolios, how are you to choose? HERE’S A BREAKDOWN OF OUR PORTFOLIOS: The Growth Portfolio focuses generally on the longer term: companies building on old values and new ideas, as well as paying dividends. The Income Portfolio focuses on the longer term as well, but with an stronger emphasis on steady dividends. The Advantage Portfolio is a short-term vehicle—sometimes turnover is just a matter of weeks. And of course, while each of these groups has mutual funds (both open and closed) the Mutual Fund Portfolio (available at www.pfnewsletter.com) has a small generally fixed group of top-notch funds.

The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Capsule Advisory -

With close to 100 different stocks, bonds and funds highlighted in the Personal Finance portfolios, how are you to choose? HERE’S A BREAKDOWN OF OUR PORTFOLIOS: The Growth Portfolio focuses generally on the longer term: companies building on old values and new ideas, as well as paying dividends. The Income Portfolio focuses on the longer term as well, but with an stronger emphasis on steady dividends. The Advantage Portfolio is a short-term vehicle—sometimes turnover is just a matter of weeks. And of course, while each of these groups has mutual funds (both open and closed) the Mutual Fund Portfolio (available at www.pfnewsletter.com) has a small generally fixed group of top-notch funds.

Although we’ve recommended them in Personal Finance many times, closed-end funds raise a lot of questions if you don’t know the basics. Unlike mutual funds, they trade on the major exchanges as listed securities and get continuous pricing during the day. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Watch your Step - Although we’ve recommended them in Personal Finance many times, closed-end funds raise a lot of questions if you don’t know the basics. Unlike mutual funds, they trade on the major exchanges as listed securities and get continuous pricing during the day.

It’s been a while since we’ve talked about two core funds that have been in the Mutual Fund Portfolio for years: Meridian Value (MVALX) and Ariel Appreciation (CAAPX). Both funds are sleepers—they rarely stand out in one particular year. But since we’ve had them in the Portfolio, they’ve beaten the S&P 500 handsomely. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Keepers - It’s been a while since we’ve talked about two core funds that have been in the Mutual Fund Portfolio for years: Meridian Value (MVALX) and Ariel Appreciation (CAAPX). Both funds are sleepers—they rarely stand out in one particular year. But since we’ve had them in the Portfolio, they’ve beaten the S&P 500 handsomely.

Old hand Sheldon Jacobs was one of the first in the newsletter business to recognize the growing importance of mutual funds. Launched in the early 1980s, his No-Load Fund Investor is a comprehensive, independent resource on funds. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Roundup: Sheldon Jacobs - Old hand Sheldon Jacobs was one of the first in the newsletter business to recognize the growing importance of mutual funds. Launched in the early 1980s, his No-Load Fund Investor is a comprehensive, independent resource on funds.

PNC Financial's agreement to purchase troubled Riggs Bank of Washington DC may appear to be a regional deal--but its reach is much broader. Riggs Bank was the go-to bank for many within the US government. Not only did it hold the personal accounts of government figures, from Presidents down, the bank was also used for behind-the-scenes governmental activities (those we aren't supposed to know about). The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: DON'T BANK ON IT - PNC Financial's agreement to purchase troubled Riggs Bank of Washington DC may appear to be a regional deal--but its reach is much broader. Riggs Bank was the go-to bank for many within the US government. Not only did it hold the personal accounts of government figures, from Presidents down, the bank was also used for behind-the-scenes governmental activities (those we aren't supposed to know about).

Each section of the Personal Finance Portfolios has a base of bonds. From our Growth Portfolio’s Cash Cows to the Income Portfolio’s core preservation funds and the Mutual Fund Portfolio’s best of the open-end funds, bonds are a PF essential. Even the Advantage Portfolio has our best pick of the bond market’s more speculative issues. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: MARKETWATCH - Each section of the Personal Finance Portfolios has a base of bonds. From our Growth Portfolio’s Cash Cows to the Income Portfolio’s core preservation funds and the Mutual Fund Portfolio’s best of the open-end funds, bonds are a PF essential. Even the Advantage Portfolio has our best pick of the bond market’s more speculative issues.

If you’re investing in mutual funds or hiring an investment advisor, it’s important to know how much and what you’re paying for. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: It’s Your Money - If you’re investing in mutual funds or hiring an investment advisor, it’s important to know how much and what you’re paying for.

Editor’s note: Below Ivan looks at what’s next for our bond funds, which were the bright spot in our mutual fund portfolio in the first quarter.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bonded - Editor’s note: Below Ivan looks at what’s next for our bond funds, which were the bright spot in our mutual fund portfolio in the first quarter.—SL

2006 was yet another positive year for investors in the PF Mutual Fund Portfolio. The straight average of our stock-only funds was up 11.9 percent, underperforming the S&P 500 investable benchmark—the Vanguard 500 Index Fund—which was up 15.6 percent. Our funds on average didn’t beat the market, but they did well and have beaten the market consistently since the Portfolio’s last major overhaul in 2000. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Another Up Year - 2006 was yet another positive year for investors in the PF Mutual Fund Portfolio. The straight average of our stock-only funds was up 11.9 percent, underperforming the S&P 500 investable benchmark—the Vanguard 500 Index Fund—which was up 15.6 percent. Our funds on average didn’t beat the market, but they did well and have beaten the market consistently since the Portfolio’s last major overhaul in 2000.

Bonds, bond mutual funds and other fixed income securities have taken a beating. Here’s what to do. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bonds: What To Do Now - Bonds, bond mutual funds and other fixed income securities have taken a beating. Here’s what to do.

Investing in mutual funds has become a game of inches. Investors who got used to the 15 percent-plus annual returns in the 1990s are a bit confused when they see the market advance in the single digits. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Slight Outperformance - Investing in mutual funds has become a game of inches. Investors who got used to the 15 percent-plus annual returns in the 1990s are a bit confused when they see the market advance in the single digits.

A few months have passed since the mutual fund investigations were made public in September 2003, and from the whole exercise one thing is clear: The problem was—and still is—being swept under the carpet. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Good Funds - A few months have passed since the mutual fund investigations were made public in September 2003, and from the whole exercise one thing is clear: The problem was—and still is—being swept under the carpet.

We’ve often said that we buy and sell funds in the Mutual Fund Portfolio with a long-term outlook, and this has been our strategy with Oakmark.  The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Letting Go Of Oakmark - We’ve often said that we buy and sell funds in the Mutual Fund Portfolio with a long-term outlook, and this has been our strategy with Oakmark. 

Get all the relevant details on 106 trusts and mutual funds, including critical information on levels of non-resident ownership of Canadian trusts. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: How They Rate - Get all the relevant details on 106 trusts and mutual funds, including critical information on levels of non-resident ownership of Canadian trusts.

They may not be the sexiest asset class but mutual funds can be very comforting when the markets turn bearish, provided of course you’re holding the right ones. Diversification and meat-and-potatoes growth are a duo that helped us trounce the S&P 500 for the year. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Dry Out of the Water - They may not be the sexiest asset class but mutual funds can be very comforting when the markets turn bearish, provided of course you’re holding the right ones. Diversification and meat-and-potatoes growth are a duo that helped us trounce the S&P 500 for the year.

More than three-quarters of open-end mutual fund managers underperform the S&P 500 on a five-year annualized basis. Expense ratios of 1-2 percent play a big role in that underperformance, but also to blame is the very nature of the S&P 500. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Part II -- Funds Built to Trade - More than three-quarters of open-end mutual fund managers underperform the S&P 500 on a five-year annualized basis. Expense ratios of 1-2 percent play a big role in that underperformance, but also to blame is the very nature of the S&P 500.

While we’re firm believers that the Mutual Fund Portfolio has to be managed with a long-term view (some of our funds have been in the Portfolio for more than five years), individual investors regularly lose sight of the big picture. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Shakeout - While we’re firm believers that the Mutual Fund Portfolio has to be managed with a long-term view (some of our funds have been in the Portfolio for more than five years), individual investors regularly lose sight of the big picture.

Few would argue that Britain has been the star economic performer in the European Union during the past decade. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Royal Bargains - Few would argue that Britain has been the star economic performer in the European Union during the past decade.

Walter Frank’s Moneyletter has provided investors advice on buying mutual funds and market forecasting since 1980. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Roundup: Walter Frank - Walter Frank’s Moneyletter has provided investors advice on buying mutual funds and market forecasting since 1980.

Never underestimate the small mindedness of politicians: That looks like the lesson of the week for investors. The morning after the biggest bank failure in history—Washington Mutual—Washington is still squabbling about the details of how to sort out the mortgage securities mess and unfreeze the US financial system.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Betting on Recovery - Never underestimate the small mindedness of politicians: That looks like the lesson of the week for investors. The morning after the biggest bank failure in history—Washington Mutual—Washington is still squabbling about the details of how to sort out the mortgage securities mess and unfreeze the US financial system.

In the newsletter business, few cover mutual funds more comprehensively than The No-Load Fund Investor. With its numerous tables and statistics, it’s an important resource, especially for those investors doing their own research. Here’s how they see 2005 shaping up: The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: ROUNDUP: The No-load investor - In the newsletter business, few cover mutual funds more comprehensively than The No-Load Fund Investor. With its numerous tables and statistics, it’s an important resource, especially for those investors doing their own research. Here’s how they see 2005 shaping up:

I recently spoke with Louis Rukeyser's Mutual Funds (LRMF) newsletter editor Benjamin Shepherd regarding the present state of investing in Asia and the future prospects of the region as an investment destination going forward. The full interview follows:
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Will Asian Economies Survive the Chaos? - I recently spoke with Louis Rukeyser's Mutual Funds (LRMF) newsletter editor Benjamin Shepherd regarding the present state of investing in Asia and the future prospects of the region as an investment destination going forward. The full interview follows:

Editor’s note: After a great year, our investment-grade bond funds have pulled back in the last two months. Ivan looks at what’s ahead for the bond market and how our mutual fund portfolio is leveraged to those trends. —SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: More to Come - Editor’s note: After a great year, our investment-grade bond funds have pulled back in the last two months. Ivan looks at what’s ahead for the bond market and how our mutual fund portfolio is leveraged to those trends. —SL

High fees and expenses, hidden sales loads, misleading returns and dismal performance are good reasons to avoid most open-end mutual funds. That goes double in the bond sector, where fees eat into your income stream. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Keep It Open - High fees and expenses, hidden sales loads, misleading returns and dismal performance are good reasons to avoid most open-end mutual funds. That goes double in the bond sector, where fees eat into your income stream.

Not long ago, Wall Street was urging income investors to dump “boring” old dividend stocks to chase growth stocks and mutual funds. Sellers were assured they could get cash simply by selling a piece of their ever-appreciating portfolios. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Full Ahead For Income - Not long ago, Wall Street was urging income investors to dump “boring” old dividend stocks to chase growth stocks and mutual funds. Sellers were assured they could get cash simply by selling a piece of their ever-appreciating portfolios.

--The Personal Finance Mutual Fund Close-Up column and portfolio will now be tracked online at www.pfnewsletter.com. PF associate editor Ivan Martchev will be tracking the current holdings and updating the column as the need arises. In addition, many of the best funds will be added and maintained in the Growth and Income Portfolios. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Capsule Advisory - --The Personal Finance Mutual Fund Close-Up column and portfolio will now be tracked online at www.pfnewsletter.com. PF associate editor Ivan Martchev will be tracking the current holdings and updating the column as the need arises. In addition, many of the best funds will be added and maintained in the Growth and Income Portfolios.

There are some tall tales going around about fees supposedly charged investors by our favorite closed-end and open-end mutual funds. The good news is it’s easy to set the record straight. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Straight Record - There are some tall tales going around about fees supposedly charged investors by our favorite closed-end and open-end mutual funds. The good news is it’s easy to set the record straight.

Shifting income to lower-bracket children is a prime tax planning strategy. But the new tax law makes such strategies even more appealing. Now you should consider giving away dividend-paying stocks and mutual funds. Also, if you’re planning to take capital gains, first give the appreciated assets to your children. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Family-Smart Tax Planning - Shifting income to lower-bracket children is a prime tax planning strategy. But the new tax law makes such strategies even more appealing. Now you should consider giving away dividend-paying stocks and mutual funds. Also, if you’re planning to take capital gains, first give the appreciated assets to your children.

We’re all do-it-ourselves investors. We do our own research. And by the very nature of subscribing, you obviously take your own portfolio very seriously, just as we do. This means you don’t just turn over hard-earned cash to an advisor or manager. And you don’t use any old brokerage firm, bank or trust company, either, to take care of your trades and hold your stocks, bonds and funds. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Getting On With It - We’re all do-it-ourselves investors. We do our own research. And by the very nature of subscribing, you obviously take your own portfolio very seriously, just as we do. This means you don’t just turn over hard-earned cash to an advisor or manager. And you don’t use any old brokerage firm, bank or trust company, either, to take care of your trades and hold your stocks, bonds and funds.

We’re big advocates of the idea that mutual fund investors are captives of the market, because they’re long all the time. For that reason, real diversification among different kinds of funds—which can help you in all market conditions—is vital. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Longest Time -- Sept. 11, 2002 - We’re big advocates of the idea that mutual fund investors are captives of the market, because they’re long all the time. For that reason, real diversification among different kinds of funds—which can help you in all market conditions—is vital.

As I’ve said in past few weeks, the financial sector remains interesting for investors with a fairly high risk tolerance, and it’s time to wait for the sector to turn around. Ironically, there are two mutual funds out there that focus on the financial sector and are outperforming the S&P 500 in a pretty impressive way.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Financial Gearing - As I’ve said in past few weeks, the financial sector remains interesting for investors with a fairly high risk tolerance, and it’s time to wait for the sector to turn around. Ironically, there are two mutual funds out there that focus on the financial sector and are outperforming the S&P 500 in a pretty impressive way.

By now, most have at least heard of the mutual fund scandal. It all started when ambitious New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer began his latest effort against a few ill-behaving fund companies on Sept. 3, 2003. And we all know we should be worried, yet again, that the nefarious conduct of a lucky few at the top could cost us dearly. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Feeling's Mutual - By now, most have at least heard of the mutual fund scandal. It all started when ambitious New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer began his latest effort against a few ill-behaving fund companies on Sept. 3, 2003. And we all know we should be worried, yet again, that the nefarious conduct of a lucky few at the top could cost us dearly.

In just the past year, energy giants Chevron, Royal Dutch, Shell and ExxonMobil have been forced to delay multi-billion dollar oil and gas projects. The reason for those delays: a global shortage of drilling rigs.   The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Drilling For Profits - In just the past year, energy giants Chevron, Royal Dutch, Shell and ExxonMobil have been forced to delay multi-billion dollar oil and gas projects. The reason for those delays: a global shortage of drilling rigs.  

The next big bubble is already getting pumped up, this time not with easy money via the credit market but through direct investment by Uncle Sam Corp. The Federal Reserve Bank should be renamed Fed Bank, Inc.,Wholly Owned Subsidiary of USC. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Think Big - The next big bubble is already getting pumped up, this time not with easy money via the credit market but through direct investment by Uncle Sam Corp. The Federal Reserve Bank should be renamed Fed Bank, Inc.,Wholly Owned Subsidiary of USC.

The best-performing mutual fund in the Mutual Fund Portfolio is American Century Global Gold. The fund holds a 15 percent weight in the Portfolio. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Precious Metals Update - The best-performing mutual fund in the Mutual Fund Portfolio is American Century Global Gold. The fund holds a 15 percent weight in the Portfolio.

Late 2000 was the high water mark of a 20-year uptrend for the utility stock mutual fund business. As both conventional utilities and newcomers like Calpine, Dynegy, El Paso and Enron soared to new heights, investor dollars poured into a flurry of new fund offerings by major brokerages, fund families like Fidelity and Vanguard and scores of smaller investment houses. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A Better Breed Of Funds - Late 2000 was the high water mark of a 20-year uptrend for the utility stock mutual fund business. As both conventional utilities and newcomers like Calpine, Dynegy, El Paso and Enron soared to new heights, investor dollars poured into a flurry of new fund offerings by major brokerages, fund families like Fidelity and Vanguard and scores of smaller investment houses.

Closed-end bond and preferred stock funds top their open-end rivals in several ways. Open-end funds must issue and cancel shares in line with investor demand. That means buying during up markets and selling in bad ones. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Closed-End Funds: Watch The Premium - Closed-end bond and preferred stock funds top their open-end rivals in several ways. Open-end funds must issue and cancel shares in line with investor demand. That means buying during up markets and selling in bad ones.

Back in April of last year, we turned our focus to what’s clearly been the best-performing economy in Europe of the past decade: Great Britain. Akin to the US in so many ways, the UK has used its business-friendly labor laws to spur growth at a time when most of the world has seen a slackening. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Royal Bargains (April 23, 2003) - Back in April of last year, we turned our focus to what’s clearly been the best-performing economy in Europe of the past decade: Great Britain. Akin to the US in so many ways, the UK has used its business-friendly labor laws to spur growth at a time when most of the world has seen a slackening.

For the second time in two years, Regions Financial is making a major acquisition, uniting with AmSouth Bank to form a regional giant with about $137.5 billion in assets. It should prove more successful than last year’s buyout of Union Planters. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A Bigger, Better Bank - For the second time in two years, Regions Financial is making a major acquisition, uniting with AmSouth Bank to form a regional giant with about $137.5 billion in assets. It should prove more successful than last year’s buyout of Union Planters.

Steady, robust cash flow from deposit-based businesses make regional banks a staple of balanced income portfolios. We hold two top-notch plays: Regions Financial and First Bank of St Louis 8.15 Percent Preferred. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bank On It - Steady, robust cash flow from deposit-based businesses make regional banks a staple of balanced income portfolios. We hold two top-notch plays: Regions Financial and First Bank of St Louis 8.15 Percent Preferred.

The best perfuming mutual fund in the past five years in the Mutual Fund Portfolio is gold fund American Century Global Gold, with a five-year annualized return of 31.2 percent. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Gold Fund Facts - The best perfuming mutual fund in the past five years in the Mutual Fund Portfolio is gold fund American Century Global Gold, with a five-year annualized return of 31.2 percent.

It seems everybody’s getting a helping hand. This week yet another major bank got a huge infusion of public help--$66 billion worth--to keep the doors open for at least a few more weeks. Zurich-based UBS (NYSE: UBS), announced that the Swiss federal authority in Bern, along with the Swiss National Bank, decided it didn’t want one of its biggest banks going down for the count. Swiss authorities are supposedly taking $60 billion in debt assets with no real assumable value and at the same time buying into the bank with equity capital of $6 billion. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mad Markets? Get Back to Basics - It seems everybody’s getting a helping hand. This week yet another major bank got a huge infusion of public help--$66 billion worth--to keep the doors open for at least a few more weeks. Zurich-based UBS (NYSE: UBS), announced that the Swiss federal authority in Bern, along with the Swiss National Bank, decided it didn’t want one of its biggest banks going down for the count. Swiss authorities are supposedly taking $60 billion in debt assets with no real assumable value and at the same time buying into the bank with equity capital of $6 billion.

One of our preferred stocks of a local bank is a solid alternative to a certificate of deposit. By Neil George Banking isn’t such a tough business to be in and make a few bucks along the way. The key is understanding the basic business model, which works like this: Banks accept deposits and The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bank On It - One of our preferred stocks of a local bank is a solid alternative to a certificate of deposit. By Neil George Banking isn’t such a tough business to be in and make a few bucks along the way. The key is understanding the basic business model, which works like this: Banks accept deposits and

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The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Growth Engines 26 -

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muncipal-bonds

entering-foreign-market

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investing-secret

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analysis-market-financial

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invest-in-bonds

asset-based-debt

global-trade-finance

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emerging-market-research

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foreign-bonds

capital-flight

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investment-new

college-savings-bond

international-loan

emerging-market-bond-index

equity-market

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best-place-to-invest-money

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buy-corporate-bonds

real-estate-receiver

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federal-savings-bonds

van-kampen-mutual-funds

low-risk-investment-strategy

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royal-bank-mutual-funds

July 15, 2004 Thrillers & Chillers It must have been thrilling for Ken Lewis (CEO of Bank of America) to get up in front of his board of directors and beam with great news as he read the results from last quarter. According to Bank of America's (US: The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Thrillers & Chillers - July 15, 2004 Thrillers & Chillers It must have been thrilling for Ken Lewis (CEO of Bank of America) to get up in front of his board of directors and beam with great news as he read the results from last quarter. According to Bank of America's (US:

Bank Credit Analyst has given analysts and individuals advice on the macro picture for the economy and markets since 1949 and now reaches investors in 80 countries. Here are the publication’s latest thoughts. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: ROUNDUP: Bank Credit analyst - Bank Credit Analyst has given analysts and individuals advice on the macro picture for the economy and markets since 1949 and now reaches investors in 80 countries. Here are the publication’s latest thoughts.

Royal Dutch Shell shocked the energy world last month, confessing it overstated global oil and gas reserves by 20 percent—or nearly $100 billion at today’s prices. Management expects to reclaim most of the reserves, but its actions have launched an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission that could eventually reach across the energy chain. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Utility Beat - Royal Dutch Shell shocked the energy world last month, confessing it overstated global oil and gas reserves by 20 percent—or nearly $100 billion at today’s prices. Management expects to reclaim most of the reserves, but its actions have launched an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission that could eventually reach across the energy chain.

In the beginning of 2004, we stressed on multiple occasions that investors needed to be defensively positioned in their mutual fund portfolios. Even though the indexes are ending the year near the highs for 2004, the road to this blessed ending has been anything but smooth. If you look at how deep the indexes went in the red for the year, only the S&P 500 looks OK so far. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: MUTUAL FUND UPDATE: The Race Against Time - In the beginning of 2004, we stressed on multiple occasions that investors needed to be defensively positioned in their mutual fund portfolios. Even though the indexes are ending the year near the highs for 2004, the road to this blessed ending has been anything but smooth. If you look at how deep the indexes went in the red for the year, only the S&P 500 looks OK so far.

So-called “socially responsible” investing has a mixed track record. On one hand, investors in the handful of mutual funds and managed accounts that exclude polluters, vice industries, practitioners of employee-unfriendly or discriminatory policies and so on have avoided some of this bear market’s biggest pitfalls regarding corporate conduct. On the other, one person’s social good can be another’s unforgivable sin, and being clean doesn’t always equate to solid returns. Here are the views of The Clean Yield. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Roundup: The Clean Yield - So-called “socially responsible” investing has a mixed track record. On one hand, investors in the handful of mutual funds and managed accounts that exclude polluters, vice industries, practitioners of employee-unfriendly or discriminatory policies and so on have avoided some of this bear market’s biggest pitfalls regarding corporate conduct. On the other, one person’s social good can be another’s unforgivable sin, and being clean doesn’t always equate to solid returns. Here are the views of The Clean Yield.

For about 10 years now, I’ve been writing what has become By George. Back in the 1990s, it was the Daily Pink, which was the daily companion to my monthly journal Review & Focus. That journal was published at Mark Twain Bank in St. Louis, which was absorbed into US Bank (NYSE: USB) some years ago.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Our Cut of the Cash - For about 10 years now, I’ve been writing what has become By George. Back in the 1990s, it was the Daily Pink, which was the daily companion to my monthly journal Review & Focus. That journal was published at Mark Twain Bank in St. Louis, which was absorbed into US Bank (NYSE: USB) some years ago.

For about 10 years now, I’ve been writing what has become By George. Back in the 1990s, it was the Daily Pink, which was the daily companion to my monthly journal Review & Focus. That journal was published at Mark Twain Bank in St. Louis, which was absorbed into US Bank (NYSE: USB) some years ago. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Days Turn into Weeks - For about 10 years now, I’ve been writing what has become By George. Back in the 1990s, it was the Daily Pink, which was the daily companion to my monthly journal Review & Focus. That journal was published at Mark Twain Bank in St. Louis, which was absorbed into US Bank (NYSE: USB) some years ago.

TRADE UPDATE: SELL KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF)

Our target has been more than exceeded, with current trading around 12.50. We love this bank and financial for its products, services as well as its stock. If you want the short-term gain, sell it and move along with our other picks and pending The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Trade Update--September 20, 2006 - TRADE UPDATE: SELL KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF)

Our target has been more than exceeded, with current trading around 12.50. We love this bank and financial for its products, services as well as its stock. If you want the short-term gain, sell it and move along with our other picks and pending

Mark Carney, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s designee to succeed David Dodge as governor of the Bank of Canada, confirmed a well-circulated rumor last week during an appearance before the House of Commons Finance Committee intended to establish his qualifications to head the country’s central bank. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Carney's Carnage - Mark Carney, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s designee to succeed David Dodge as governor of the Bank of Canada, confirmed a well-circulated rumor last week during an appearance before the House of Commons Finance Committee intended to establish his qualifications to head the country’s central bank.

Just two years ago, the fed funds rate was at 1 percent and most money market funds were paying very little. Actually, they were paying less after their expense ratios were charged to their customers’ accounts. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Cash Issues - Just two years ago, the fed funds rate was at 1 percent and most money market funds were paying very little. Actually, they were paying less after their expense ratios were charged to their customers’ accounts.

The funds in the Growth Portfolio are an easy way to buy into great companies and markets that otherwise would be difficult for individual investors to access. Here’s a review of the stock funds. See the Portfolio table on p. 7 for symbols and our current advice. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Fund Alternatives - The funds in the Growth Portfolio are an easy way to buy into great companies and markets that otherwise would be difficult for individual investors to access. Here’s a review of the stock funds. See the Portfolio table on p. 7 for symbols and our current advice.

Although buying into managed funds usually doesn’t pay as well as actively investing in individual stocks, funds do offer immediate diversification. Below, we outline our favorite Canadian trust fund. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: High Yield of the Month: EnerVest Diversified Income Trust - Although buying into managed funds usually doesn’t pay as well as actively investing in individual stocks, funds do offer immediate diversification. Below, we outline our favorite Canadian trust fund.

We're adding a new group of floating-rate bond funds to our Cash Cow mix of closed-end, fixed-rate funds to proved a shock-absorber with bond rates jumping up and down. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Breaking News - We're adding a new group of floating-rate bond funds to our Cash Cow mix of closed-end, fixed-rate funds to proved a shock-absorber with bond rates jumping up and down.

•  In 2001, Japan adopted a highly unusual policy in an attempt to revive the nation’s long moribund economy—the Japanese central bank cut interest rates to zero percent. That policy has come to be known as the “zero interest rate policy” (ZIRP), and it’s long been a symbol of Japanese economic stagnation. But SIGNS ARE BUILDING THAT THE JAPANESE CENTRAL BANK WILL SOON END ZIRP BY HIKING RATES for the first time in five years. In fact, the central bank has already started to drain liquidity from the banking system, reducing the money supply markedly during the past few months. The last time Japan ended ZIRP was in 2000—raising interest rates back then contributed to a second dip into recession for the country in 2001; the central bank is keen on not repeating that mistake. But it’s clear that Japan’s growth this time around is more durable—for the first time in more than a decade real estate prices are rising, and consumer price inflation is a reality. The end of ZIRP would be yet another clear signal that Japan’s economic situation is improving rapidly. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Advisory - •  In 2001, Japan adopted a highly unusual policy in an attempt to revive the nation’s long moribund economy—the Japanese central bank cut interest rates to zero percent. That policy has come to be known as the “zero interest rate policy” (ZIRP), and it’s long been a symbol of Japanese economic stagnation. But SIGNS ARE BUILDING THAT THE JAPANESE CENTRAL BANK WILL SOON END ZIRP BY HIKING RATES for the first time in five years. In fact, the central bank has already started to drain liquidity from the banking system, reducing the money supply markedly during the past few months. The last time Japan ended ZIRP was in 2000—raising interest rates back then contributed to a second dip into recession for the country in 2001; the central bank is keen on not repeating that mistake. But it’s clear that Japan’s growth this time around is more durable—for the first time in more than a decade real estate prices are rising, and consumer price inflation is a reality. The end of ZIRP would be yet another clear signal that Japan’s economic situation is improving rapidly.

Early in February, California "Governator" Arnold Schwarzenegger pledged $95 million in funds to support the development of green technologies in the state. It’s no surprise the state government would be ponying up funds because the computer/technology revolution in the 1980s and ‘90s boosted The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Terminator As Germinator - Early in February, California "Governator" Arnold Schwarzenegger pledged $95 million in funds to support the development of green technologies in the state. It’s no surprise the state government would be ponying up funds because the computer/technology revolution in the 1980s and ‘90s boosted

It should come as little surprise that, according to the latest Quarterly Banking Profile, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (FDIC) balance sheet is beginning to look almost as bad as an overleveraged bank’s. There have been 44 bank failures since February 2007, with 25 last year and 16 so far in 2009, with total assets of $383.5 billion between them. And just as banks themselves don’t have enough currency on hand to cash out all of their depositors, the FDIC just can’t keep enough cash to cover all insured deposits.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bailing Out The Regulators - It should come as little surprise that, according to the latest Quarterly Banking Profile, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (FDIC) balance sheet is beginning to look almost as bad as an overleveraged bank’s. There have been 44 bank failures since February 2007, with 25 last year and 16 so far in 2009, with total assets of $383.5 billion between them. And just as banks themselves don’t have enough currency on hand to cash out all of their depositors, the FDIC just can’t keep enough cash to cover all insured deposits.

The Bank of Canada (BoC) lowered its target overnight rate by 25 basis points to 2.25 percent Tuesday morning, citing severe strains on financial markets, a coming global recession triggered by an ongoing US recession and a sharp decline in commodity prices as its primary concerns going forward. The BoC is the first central bank to follow up the Oct. 8 coordinated rate cuts by global monetary authorities with another cut.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Canada and Big Bailouts - The Bank of Canada (BoC) lowered its target overnight rate by 25 basis points to 2.25 percent Tuesday morning, citing severe strains on financial markets, a coming global recession triggered by an ongoing US recession and a sharp decline in commodity prices as its primary concerns going forward. The BoC is the first central bank to follow up the Oct. 8 coordinated rate cuts by global monetary authorities with another cut.

By Neil George Our closed-end bond funds inside the Taxable Portfolio continue to deliver on our key objectives of long-term total return performance and consistent cash payments. Generally each of the funds has a mix of domestic, higher-paying US government and agency bonds as well as a collec The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Closed End - By Neil George Our closed-end bond funds inside the Taxable Portfolio continue to deliver on our key objectives of long-term total return performance and consistent cash payments. Generally each of the funds has a mix of domestic, higher-paying US government and agency bonds as well as a collec

This year some of the best stocks, bonds and funds that pay us piles of cash have seen some trying times. And whether it’s some of the best well-run bond funds made up of very well-performing and paying bonds or some of the big dividend payers in a variety of industries, it seems that if the investment pays any decent yield, the market has been eager to dump it The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Keep the Cash Coming - This year some of the best stocks, bonds and funds that pay us piles of cash have seen some trying times. And whether it’s some of the best well-run bond funds made up of very well-performing and paying bonds or some of the big dividend payers in a variety of industries, it seems that if the investment pays any decent yield, the market has been eager to dump it

By Neil George Our closed-end bond funds inside the Taxable and Tax-Free Portfolios continue to deliver on our key objectives of long-term growth and consistent cash payments. Generally each of the taxable funds has a mix of domestic, higher-paying US government and agency bonds as well as a co The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Keep 'Em Closed - By Neil George Our closed-end bond funds inside the Taxable and Tax-Free Portfolios continue to deliver on our key objectives of long-term growth and consistent cash payments. Generally each of the taxable funds has a mix of domestic, higher-paying US government and agency bonds as well as a co

The second quarter of 2001 was a lesson in the value of diversification, particularly for income investors. Our safety-first mix of common stocks, partnerships, preferred shares, convertibles, bond funds and money funds suffered four huge setbacks: Falling energy prices, the California crisis, falling money market rates and economic weakness. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mixing It Up - The second quarter of 2001 was a lesson in the value of diversification, particularly for income investors. Our safety-first mix of common stocks, partnerships, preferred shares, convertibles, bond funds and money funds suffered four huge setbacks: Falling energy prices, the California crisis, falling money market rates and economic weakness.

There have been reports in the media today that closed-end funds have been experiencing “failed” auctions on short-term, cash-like securities, which has led to some investors not being able to pull cash out of the funds. That sounds like horrible news, but there are some distinctions here that the mainstream media hasn’t done a very good job of pointing out.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Market Update - There have been reports in the media today that closed-end funds have been experiencing “failed” auctions on short-term, cash-like securities, which has led to some investors not being able to pull cash out of the funds. That sounds like horrible news, but there are some distinctions here that the mainstream media hasn’t done a very good job of pointing out.

It was some year for mutual fund investors. If you ever wondered why you need bonds and diversification, you got your answer. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Pick A Number - It was some year for mutual fund investors. If you ever wondered why you need bonds and diversification, you got your answer.

Since 2000, positive returns have been hard to come by for mutual fund investors. Here’s how to be an exception to the rule. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Best Defense is Growth - Since 2000, positive returns have been hard to come by for mutual fund investors. Here’s how to be an exception to the rule.

• In late October, PowerShares Capital Management launched eight new exchange traded funds (ETFs). These are the new hot investment vehicles; they’re sector- or subject-specific stock portfolios that trade like stocks but allow individual investors to hold a basket of stocks similar to a mutual fund. And what’s hipper than new investment products? New investment sectors. ONE OF POWERSHARES’ NEW ETFS IS THE LUX NANOTECH PORTFOLIO. Granted, Merrill Lynch’s Nanotech ETF has been around longer, but this one grabbed more headlines. The Lux Nano is hardly a trip through the nano frontier. More than one third of the companies are Dow, S&P 500 or similar size companies that have tangential exposure to nanotechnology. Merrill’s Nanotech ETF has more direct beneficiaries to nanotech but with increased volatility and risk, since these little firms are usually one-trick ponies. This is great exposure for the industry but the portfolios are lame. Our advice: Buy some risk capital in individual shares of companies that engage your interest and look like they have good business models. And learn all you can about this important—and young—new technology sector through our free e-zine High-Tech Bulletin (www.hightechbulletin.com). The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Advisory - • In late October, PowerShares Capital Management launched eight new exchange traded funds (ETFs). These are the new hot investment vehicles; they’re sector- or subject-specific stock portfolios that trade like stocks but allow individual investors to hold a basket of stocks similar to a mutual fund. And what’s hipper than new investment products? New investment sectors. ONE OF POWERSHARES’ NEW ETFS IS THE LUX NANOTECH PORTFOLIO. Granted, Merrill Lynch’s Nanotech ETF has been around longer, but this one grabbed more headlines. The Lux Nano is hardly a trip through the nano frontier. More than one third of the companies are Dow, S&P 500 or similar size companies that have tangential exposure to nanotechnology. Merrill’s Nanotech ETF has more direct beneficiaries to nanotech but with increased volatility and risk, since these little firms are usually one-trick ponies. This is great exposure for the industry but the portfolios are lame. Our advice: Buy some risk capital in individual shares of companies that engage your interest and look like they have good business models. And learn all you can about this important—and young—new technology sector through our free e-zine High-Tech Bulletin (www.hightechbulletin.com).

What’s the best use for our cash? This is the question we need to ask ourselves every month, after all the brokerage and bank statements filter through the mail. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Best Use - What’s the best use for our cash? This is the question we need to ask ourselves every month, after all the brokerage and bank statements filter through the mail.

Editor’s note: With the volatility in the U.S. markets becoming an accepted norm, Ivan takes further steps to reduce the risk in the Mutual Fund Portfolio.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Playing It Safe - Editor’s note: With the volatility in the U.S. markets becoming an accepted norm, Ivan takes further steps to reduce the risk in the Mutual Fund Portfolio.—SL

This is a jam-packed issue, with improvements in how we get you your information, insight into the long-term future of trusts and a recommendation for a Canadian mutual fund that holds trusts. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Market Overview - This is a jam-packed issue, with improvements in how we get you your information, insight into the long-term future of trusts and a recommendation for a Canadian mutual fund that holds trusts.

Acclaim/Starpoint clarity, trusts earning their way off the Dividend Watch List, mutual fund payout safety and tax guidance--all in another month's Tips On Trusts. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Tip Sheet - Acclaim/Starpoint clarity, trusts earning their way off the Dividend Watch List, mutual fund payout safety and tax guidance--all in another month's Tips On Trusts.

Just as many of you were looking up at the sky rise towers of the big banks around the nation to make sure that you aren't going to be squashed like a bug by defenestrated bank executives, the government has stepped in with a fix for the whole credit market fiasco.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Don't Jump - Just as many of you were looking up at the sky rise towers of the big banks around the nation to make sure that you aren't going to be squashed like a bug by defenestrated bank executives, the government has stepped in with a fix for the whole credit market fiasco.

Followers of the Personal Finance mutual fund portfolio know that defensive has been our strategy here. And it’s likely to remain that way for good reasons: The broad averages will be locked in a trading-range environment for at least another 10 years, and we’re currently sitting at the top of that range. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Matches to the Tinderbox - Followers of the Personal Finance mutual fund portfolio know that defensive has been our strategy here. And it’s likely to remain that way for good reasons: The broad averages will be locked in a trading-range environment for at least another 10 years, and we’re currently sitting at the top of that range.

The defensively positioned mutual fund portfolio beat the market in 2004. In 2005, we expect a similar market environment that requires a similar stance. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Final Arbiter - The defensively positioned mutual fund portfolio beat the market in 2004. In 2005, we expect a similar market environment that requires a similar stance.

The past few weeks have been unsteady. Should we blame the Chinese again? Was it the former US Federal Reserve Bank chair making some off-handed and, as usual, misunderstood comments? The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Proactive Portfolio - The past few weeks have been unsteady. Should we blame the Chinese again? Was it the former US Federal Reserve Bank chair making some off-handed and, as usual, misunderstood comments?

India’s fortunes are again under scrutiny by a number of economic publications. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bank On India - India’s fortunes are again under scrutiny by a number of economic publications.

The PUHCA repeal, however, has opened the utility sector to a new group of buyers only starting to move in. One of the more aggressive players to emerge is Australia’s Macquarie Bank.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: On The Road - The PUHCA repeal, however, has opened the utility sector to a new group of buyers only starting to move in. One of the more aggressive players to emerge is Australia’s Macquarie Bank.

The Bank of Canada (BoC) surprised many observers June 10 by holding interest rates steady rather than cutting in the face of slowing US and global economic conditions. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Business Outlook - The Bank of Canada (BoC) surprised many observers June 10 by holding interest rates steady rather than cutting in the face of slowing US and global economic conditions.

The Thai currency collapsed on July 2, 1997, after the Bank of Thailand spent months trying to defend it. The Asian Crisis had officially started, and the whole Pacific Rim spiraled down. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Ten Years After - The Thai currency collapsed on July 2, 1997, after the Bank of Thailand spent months trying to defend it. The Asian Crisis had officially started, and the whole Pacific Rim spiraled down.

By Neil George So, will it be a nice stock today or a dabble of a commodity? How about that nice mutual fund you had your eye on the other week? Or is this the week to keep more in the money market? This is the decision process that goes on daily throughout the markets--folks evalutating where The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A Little Competition - By Neil George So, will it be a nice stock today or a dabble of a commodity? How about that nice mutual fund you had your eye on the other week? Or is this the week to keep more in the money market? This is the decision process that goes on daily throughout the markets--folks evalutating where

It was a good quarter for the major averages, with the S&P 500 returning 4.2 percent on a divided-reinvested basis, while the defensively positioned Mutual Fund Portfolio returned 2.8 percent. It’s worth noting that this isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Seen It All Before - It was a good quarter for the major averages, with the S&P 500 returning 4.2 percent on a divided-reinvested basis, while the defensively positioned Mutual Fund Portfolio returned 2.8 percent. It’s worth noting that this isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison.

The strongest seasonal time for the US averages has been nothing of the sort. The market has struggled to make progress despite record high GDP and surging profits. Over the last month there’s been selling in technology stocks into strength, and rotation into once-underperforming industries like pharmaceuticals and energy. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - The strongest seasonal time for the US averages has been nothing of the sort. The market has struggled to make progress despite record high GDP and surging profits. Over the last month there’s been selling in technology stocks into strength, and rotation into once-underperforming industries like pharmaceuticals and energy.

Editor’s note: With the recent developments in New York City wreaking havoc around the world’s financial markets, Ivan looks at how the Mutual Fund Portfolio is positioned to weather increased volatility in the market with the conviction that things will ultimately stabilize and change for the better.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Superior Swap - Editor’s note: With the recent developments in New York City wreaking havoc around the world’s financial markets, Ivan looks at how the Mutual Fund Portfolio is positioned to weather increased volatility in the market with the conviction that things will ultimately stabilize and change for the better.—SL

In early July, 13 Canadian securities dealers polled by Reuters expected a 25-basis-point overnight interest rate hike by the Bank of Canada (BoC) on Sept. 5. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Serious but Not Desperate - In early July, 13 Canadian securities dealers polled by Reuters expected a 25-basis-point overnight interest rate hike by the Bank of Canada (BoC) on Sept. 5.

It's not an easy time to shop for income. On the one hand, yields are still at historic lows. And with the benchmark 10-year Treasury note yield sinking toward 4 percent, they could go lower. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Taking It to the Bank - It's not an easy time to shop for income. On the one hand, yields are still at historic lows. And with the benchmark 10-year Treasury note yield sinking toward 4 percent, they could go lower.

It’s our job to come up with the best stocks, bonds and funds to buy and own—not just the easiest to invest in. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: It’s Worth It - It’s our job to come up with the best stocks, bonds and funds to buy and own—not just the easiest to invest in.

With the best quarter since fall 1998, the whole world is again hoping that the worst of this bear market is over. While I expect to see many similar rallies before the end of this bear market, I doubt that the bear has stopped biting. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - With the best quarter since fall 1998, the whole world is again hoping that the worst of this bear market is over. While I expect to see many similar rallies before the end of this bear market, I doubt that the bear has stopped biting.

The world’s economies show no signs of slowing down; demand for many leading commodities—copper, nickel, zinc and even corn, soybeans and wheat—is driving greater profits for the businesses and industries in these markets. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - The world’s economies show no signs of slowing down; demand for many leading commodities—copper, nickel, zinc and even corn, soybeans and wheat—is driving greater profits for the businesses and industries in these markets.

By Neil George Nearly everyone is chatting and writing about the short end of the yield curves, and not just in the US, but around the world. The reason: We’re paying way too much attention to the US Federal Reserve Bank (Fed) and its Open Market Committee. The new Fed chieftain has barely go The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: What To Buy - By Neil George Nearly everyone is chatting and writing about the short end of the yield curves, and not just in the US, but around the world. The reason: We’re paying way too much attention to the US Federal Reserve Bank (Fed) and its Open Market Committee. The new Fed chieftain has barely go

The big news last week was that China’s central bank, in an effort to slow down the Chinese economy, announced an interest rate increase--the first since April of 2004. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Big Picture And One Path To Profits - The big news last week was that China’s central bank, in an effort to slow down the Chinese economy, announced an interest rate increase--the first since April of 2004.

Every year, federal and state authorities look for owners of abandoned bank accounts, bonds, tax refunds and more. Some experts estimate that as much as $3 billion annually is remitted to states that act as custodians. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Unclaimed Billions - Every year, federal and state authorities look for owners of abandoned bank accounts, bonds, tax refunds and more. Some experts estimate that as much as $3 billion annually is remitted to states that act as custodians.

Shares of Long Hauler Macquarie Bank (Australia: MBL, OTC: MQBKY) fell 10.7 percent overnight in trading on its home Australian Stock Exchange. The drop was...
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Intraday Market Update - Shares of Long Hauler Macquarie Bank (Australia: MBL, OTC: MQBKY) fell 10.7 percent overnight in trading on its home Australian Stock Exchange. The drop was...

So the Federal Reserve Bank made the move to drop the discount rate by 50 basis points. Is this for real? The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Play It Out - So the Federal Reserve Bank made the move to drop the discount rate by 50 basis points. Is this for real?

In early July, 13 Canadian securities dealers polled by Reuters expected a 25-basis-point overnight interest rate hike by the Bank of Canada (BoC) on Sept. 5. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Maple Leaf Memo - In early July, 13 Canadian securities dealers polled by Reuters expected a 25-basis-point overnight interest rate hike by the Bank of Canada (BoC) on Sept. 5.

If enough investors demand, Wall Street will provide. Low interest rates have spurred interest in high-yielding alternatives to bank CDs and money markets. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A New Kind of Trust - If enough investors demand, Wall Street will provide. Low interest rates have spurred interest in high-yielding alternatives to bank CDs and money markets.

Embattled investment bank Lehman Brothers is now in liquidation mode. Regulators and what’s left of the street are hoping for a workout or, for some in the latter group, licking their chops like vultures over carrion.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Buy Bonds in This Battered Market - Embattled investment bank Lehman Brothers is now in liquidation mode. Regulators and what’s left of the street are hoping for a workout or, for some in the latter group, licking their chops like vultures over carrion.

History suggests that when markets go parabolic, investors should run--not chase the parabola. In practice, of course, they do just the opposite. They follow the siren song because inherently they believe there's always time to get out before the crowd does. And even though it's been proven time and time again that the door is too small for everyone to make a graceful exit at the same time, people just keep on trying. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - History suggests that when markets go parabolic, investors should run--not chase the parabola. In practice, of course, they do just the opposite. They follow the siren song because inherently they believe there's always time to get out before the crowd does. And even though it's been proven time and time again that the door is too small for everyone to make a graceful exit at the same time, people just keep on trying.

ABS, CDO, CLO, CDS, MBS, SIV: What do these letters mean, and how will they impact the credit market, our bonds and our bond funds?
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Alphabet Soup - ABS, CDO, CLO, CDS, MBS, SIV: What do these letters mean, and how will they impact the credit market, our bonds and our bond funds?

Control over the world’s most vital commodity from well to pump, billions of cash in the bank, the highest credit ratings of any industry and generous dividends—that combination makes big oil stocks bedrock for any portfolio. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Growth Spotlight: ChevronTexaco - Control over the world’s most vital commodity from well to pump, billions of cash in the bank, the highest credit ratings of any industry and generous dividends—that combination makes big oil stocks bedrock for any portfolio.

It’s getting pretty gloomy out there, and I’m not referring to the absolutely crummy weather the nation’s endured for seemingly weeks on end. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bank Stocks: It's The Baby and The Bathwater All Over Again - It’s getting pretty gloomy out there, and I’m not referring to the absolutely crummy weather the nation’s endured for seemingly weeks on end.

Editor’s note: Growing stocks selling at low valuations will lead the market’s inevitable recovery. Below, Roger reports on the Income Portfolio’s favorite financial, Arrow Financial.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Booming Bank - Editor’s note: Growing stocks selling at low valuations will lead the market’s inevitable recovery. Below, Roger reports on the Income Portfolio’s favorite financial, Arrow Financial.—SL

One is a relatively new entity backed by a powerful multinational Australian bank and attempting to double in size with a merger. The other is a leader in a highly cyclical business that’s selling for peanuts and is ripe for consolidation. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: High Yield Of The Month - One is a relatively new entity backed by a powerful multinational Australian bank and attempting to double in size with a merger. The other is a leader in a highly cyclical business that’s selling for peanuts and is ripe for consolidation.

Quality municipal bond funds are still attractive for conservative investors in high tax brackets. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Other Bonds - Quality municipal bond funds are still attractive for conservative investors in high tax brackets.

Editor’s note: Despite phenomenal long-term fundamentals the health care sector has been a terrible short-term performer. Below Ivan reviews our health care exposure and strategy in the Mutual Fund Portfolio.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Catching A Cold - Editor’s note: Despite phenomenal long-term fundamentals the health care sector has been a terrible short-term performer. Below Ivan reviews our health care exposure and strategy in the Mutual Fund Portfolio.—SL

Editor’s note: In the midst of a terrible year for stocks, select funds have held their own. Below we look at two that fit that profile.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mid Cap Mavens - Editor’s note: In the midst of a terrible year for stocks, select funds have held their own. Below we look at two that fit that profile.—SL

It may be tough to focus on our stocks, bonds and funds rather than getting distracted by the troubled broader markets. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Breaking News - It may be tough to focus on our stocks, bonds and funds rather than getting distracted by the troubled broader markets.

Even in bad markets, something is always working. It’s just a matter of doing the work to find the stocks, bonds and funds that are actually paying off. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Marketwatch - Even in bad markets, something is always working. It’s just a matter of doing the work to find the stocks, bonds and funds that are actually paying off.

By Neil George Do we have an inflation problem or don’t we? Do we have a healthy, growing economy or are we facing limits to growth and a frothy, bubbly market that’s just waiting for trouble? And what do we want from our central bank? Should its job be to simply attempt to limit inflation pre The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Uncle Ben - By Neil George Do we have an inflation problem or don’t we? Do we have a healthy, growing economy or are we facing limits to growth and a frothy, bubbly market that’s just waiting for trouble? And what do we want from our central bank? Should its job be to simply attempt to limit inflation pre

It appears the long-awaited correction might have started almost exactly one year (four days short) after the beginning of the big 2003 rally. And so far it’s been pretty vicious. The consensus currently expects that such a correction won’t go more than 5 percent, as that’s been the magnitude of all previous corrections. But I’m in the camp that believes stocks can fall by at least 10 percent before a larger advance will commence. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Mutual Fund Update - It appears the long-awaited correction might have started almost exactly one year (four days short) after the beginning of the big 2003 rally. And so far it’s been pretty vicious. The consensus currently expects that such a correction won’t go more than 5 percent, as that’s been the magnitude of all previous corrections. But I’m in the camp that believes stocks can fall by at least 10 percent before a larger advance will commence.

Back in March, the Bank of Canada (BoC) statement announcing a 50-basis-point interest-rate cut told of “clear signs that the US economy is likely to experience a deeper and more prolonged slowdown than had been projected in January.”
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Central Banker-Speak - Back in March, the Bank of Canada (BoC) statement announcing a 50-basis-point interest-rate cut told of “clear signs that the US economy is likely to experience a deeper and more prolonged slowdown than had been projected in January.”

Economic slowdown? Stock market woes? Sounds like a job for our favorite bond funds. So why are they being treated like trash rather than treasure?
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Nothing But Net - Economic slowdown? Stock market woes? Sounds like a job for our favorite bond funds. So why are they being treated like trash rather than treasure?

Defaults at unregulated generators NRG and PG&E’s National Energy Group. Huge losses at Allegheny Energy, Aquila and others from closing trading operations. Negative spark spreads. Usurious rates on bank loans. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Selective Recovery - Defaults at unregulated generators NRG and PG&E’s National Energy Group. Huge losses at Allegheny Energy, Aquila and others from closing trading operations. Negative spark spreads. Usurious rates on bank loans.

90 percent of stocks that fall below $5 a share—today’s penny stocks—will never see double digits. Moreover, the longer they stay under $5, the less likely they are to recover. That’s the verdict of a study of battered companies since 1992 by investment bank Crest Advisors. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Utility Beat - 90 percent of stocks that fall below $5 a share—today’s penny stocks—will never see double digits. Moreover, the longer they stay under $5, the less likely they are to recover. That’s the verdict of a study of battered companies since 1992 by investment bank Crest Advisors.

Not all the voices in Canada are coming out against income trusts--in fact, it's far from it. This week, the pro voices got a big endorsement from none other than Canada's de facto chief economist, Bank of Canada Gov. David Dodge. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Let The Market Speak - Not all the voices in Canada are coming out against income trusts--in fact, it's far from it. This week, the pro voices got a big endorsement from none other than Canada's de facto chief economist, Bank of Canada Gov. David Dodge.

By Neil George The bond market hates uncertainty. Don’t know what to expect from the central bank or from the treasury? Either way, it spells nothing good for a bond investor. Look at it this way: When we’re putting down our cash on a bond, we’re doing so to capitalize on a steady stream of The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Rates With Realism - By Neil George The bond market hates uncertainty. Don’t know what to expect from the central bank or from the treasury? Either way, it spells nothing good for a bond investor. Look at it this way: When we’re putting down our cash on a bond, we’re doing so to capitalize on a steady stream of

October 29, 2004 The Party Has To End Sometime China hiked its official interest rates this week. Many are saying, "The party's over." That doesn't make any sense to me--the Bank of China just moved its benchmark lending rate to 5.58 perce The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Party Has To End Sometime - October 29, 2004 The Party Has To End Sometime China hiked its official interest rates this week. Many are saying, "The party's over." That doesn't make any sense to me--the Bank of China just moved its benchmark lending rate to 5.58 perce

We don’t recommend our Portfolio stocks, bonds and funds on the hope of holding them for just a few days or weeks. We buy each on the expectation and judgment that we’ll own them for a long time. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Keep Up - We don’t recommend our Portfolio stocks, bonds and funds on the hope of holding them for just a few days or weeks. We buy each on the expectation and judgment that we’ll own them for a long time.

Each of our stocks, bonds and funds had better be pulling its own weight; and there had better be a good reason for us to own each. Otherwise, we’re just wasting paper, ink, time and money. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Stay Focused - Each of our stocks, bonds and funds had better be pulling its own weight; and there had better be a good reason for us to own each. Otherwise, we’re just wasting paper, ink, time and money.

Editor’s note: Below Ivan discusses some peculiarities of closed-end funds and finds opportunities in this overlooked sector.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Check Under the Hood - Editor’s note: Below Ivan discusses some peculiarities of closed-end funds and finds opportunities in this overlooked sector.—SL

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP TO 3.15.

The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--August 24, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP TO 3.15.

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

WE HAVE SEVEN OUTSTANDING IDEAS CURRENTLY RUNNING INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (N The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--August 31, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

WE HAVE SEVEN OUTSTANDING IDEAS CURRENTLY RUNNING INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (N

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (N The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--August 17, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (N

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP TO 3.15.

The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--July 27, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP TO 3.15.

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have six outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSD The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--June 22, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have six outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSD

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have six outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSD The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--June 29, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have six outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSD

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 22.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (N The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--June 15, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 22.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (N

The news just hit the wire that Wachovia Bank has filed suit against Thornburg Mortgage (NYSE: TMA) for failure to return some posted collateral estimated to be worth approximately $5.1 million related to a derivatives/interest rate swap transaction between the two parties...
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Intraday Market Update - The news just hit the wire that Wachovia Bank has filed suit against Thornburg Mortgage (NYSE: TMA) for failure to return some posted collateral estimated to be worth approximately $5.1 million related to a derivatives/interest rate swap transaction between the two parties...

By Yiannis G. Mostrous ATHENS, Greece --The time has come. In two days--and if not then, probably in August--the Bank of Japan (BoJ) is expected to end its zero interest rate policy (ZIRP). And every talking head--myself included--has his or her own interpretation of the significance of ZIRP’s The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: T-Minus Two Days - By Yiannis G. Mostrous ATHENS, Greece --The time has come. In two days--and if not then, probably in August--the Bank of Japan (BoJ) is expected to end its zero interest rate policy (ZIRP). And every talking head--myself included--has his or her own interpretation of the significance of ZIRP’s

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running, including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

HOLD ALTAIRN The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--August 10, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running, including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12 WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

HOLD ALTAIRN

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--July 6, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP

The broad Mexican stock market generally tracks the movement of the Nasdaq, which means this year hasn’t started very well. Yet in the stock malaise north and south of the border, Mexican banks have soared. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bank on Mexico - The broad Mexican stock market generally tracks the movement of the Nasdaq, which means this year hasn’t started very well. Yet in the stock malaise north and south of the border, Mexican banks have soared.

On August 8, President Bush wiped out the 1935 Public Utility Holding Company Act (PUHCA) with a stroke of his pen. For the first time since the Great Depression, anyone from a multi-state utility to a bank or private capital firm can buy a utility. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Utilities On The Block - On August 8, President Bush wiped out the 1935 Public Utility Holding Company Act (PUHCA) with a stroke of his pen. For the first time since the Great Depression, anyone from a multi-state utility to a bank or private capital firm can buy a utility.

Nothing is ever a sure thing. This is certainly true when it comes to our stocks, bonds and funds. Every day, economic and market conditions ebb and flow, creating opportunities or setbacks for each of our investments. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Game Not Over - Nothing is ever a sure thing. This is certainly true when it comes to our stocks, bonds and funds. Every day, economic and market conditions ebb and flow, creating opportunities or setbacks for each of our investments.

Editor’s note: Investors often overlook balanced funds but the sector’s best are winners in both good and bad times. Below Ivan looks at some of our favorites.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Keeping The Balance - Editor’s note: Investors often overlook balanced funds but the sector’s best are winners in both good and bad times. Below Ivan looks at some of our favorites.—SL

Nothing is ever a sure thing. This is certainly true when it comes to each of our stocks, bonds and funds. Every day, economic and market conditions ebb and flow, creating opportunities or setbacks for each of our investments. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: November 20, 2006 - Nothing is ever a sure thing. This is certainly true when it comes to each of our stocks, bonds and funds. Every day, economic and market conditions ebb and flow, creating opportunities or setbacks for each of our investments.

Editor’s Note: After the recent selloff, Ivan looks at funds that have kept on performing in the current environment, but also have great long-term records.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: 10-Year Winners - Editor’s Note: After the recent selloff, Ivan looks at funds that have kept on performing in the current environment, but also have great long-term records.—SL

With the stock market continuing its slide—apart from bonds and cash—very few of our funds are in positive territory. But we’re still beating the major indexes by a nice margin. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Hanging In There - With the stock market continuing its slide—apart from bonds and cash—very few of our funds are in positive territory. But we’re still beating the major indexes by a nice margin.

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running, including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

HOLD ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI).

APEX SILV The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--August 3, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running, including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UNDER 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

HOLD ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI).

APEX SILV

A month ago, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) raised interest rates from 0.25 percent to 0.5 percent, taking one more step—albeit a small one—down the path of interest rate normalization. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Long-Term Bets On Japan - A month ago, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) raised interest rates from 0.25 percent to 0.5 percent, taking one more step—albeit a small one—down the path of interest rate normalization.

So much for hard-and-fast positions: Two days ago, a Federal Reserve governor from St. Louis stated the nation’s central bank wouldn’t move to combat the credit crunch unless there was “a real calamity.” He also asserted there was still no evidence of a negative impact on the US economy. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Is It Over Yet? - So much for hard-and-fast positions: Two days ago, a Federal Reserve governor from St. Louis stated the nation’s central bank wouldn’t move to combat the credit crunch unless there was “a real calamity.” He also asserted there was still no evidence of a negative impact on the US economy.

We’re closing the quarter and the year with many tears and much gnashing of teeth. Too many quality stocks and funds that pay hefty dividends are being treated like trash in the markets. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Sad Songs - We’re closing the quarter and the year with many tears and much gnashing of teeth. Too many quality stocks and funds that pay hefty dividends are being treated like trash in the markets.

Editor’s note: Gold funds have been big underperformers in the 1990s bull market. That may be about to change with the burst of the biggest investment bubble in history. — SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Saving Grace - Editor’s note: Gold funds have been big underperformers in the 1990s bull market. That may be about to change with the burst of the biggest investment bubble in history. — SL

With the seizure of Washington Mutual yesterday and the continued foot dragging on a federal bailout, all three indexes once again posted sizable losses for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Index, including its newest component Kraft Foods--which replaced AIG Sept. 22--gave up 2 percent for the week, the S&P 500 took a loss of 3.2 percent and the Nasdaq Composite plunged 4 percent.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: WaMu Failure Marks (Un)Lucky 13 - With the seizure of Washington Mutual yesterday and the continued foot dragging on a federal bailout, all three indexes once again posted sizable losses for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Index, including its newest component Kraft Foods--which replaced AIG Sept. 22--gave up 2 percent for the week, the S&P 500 took a loss of 3.2 percent and the Nasdaq Composite plunged 4 percent.

Each issue we try to provide stocks, bonds and funds that will work come thick and thin. And while many work out, some don’t. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: What Works, What Won't - Each issue we try to provide stocks, bonds and funds that will work come thick and thin. And while many work out, some don’t.

So much for hard-and-fast positions: Two days ago, a Federal Reserve governor from St. Louis stated the nation’s central bank wouldn’t move to combat the credit crunch unless there was “a real calamity.” He also asserted there was still no evidence of a negative impact on the US economy. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Hotline: Is It Over Yet? - So much for hard-and-fast positions: Two days ago, a Federal Reserve governor from St. Louis stated the nation’s central bank wouldn’t move to combat the credit crunch unless there was “a real calamity.” He also asserted there was still no evidence of a negative impact on the US economy.

Editor’s note: With oil stubbornly stuck in the upper 20s, Ivan looks at our favorite energy funds that will continue to benefit from black gold’s strength.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: High-Octane Performance - Editor’s note: With oil stubbornly stuck in the upper 20s, Ivan looks at our favorite energy funds that will continue to benefit from black gold’s strength.—SL

It’s not in mainstream stocks that you made money in the third quarter. Our best performing funds were bonds, gold and natural resources (overweight energy in our case). The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Strength in Familiar Sectors - It’s not in mainstream stocks that you made money in the third quarter. Our best performing funds were bonds, gold and natural resources (overweight energy in our case).

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) HOLD WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALT The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--September 13, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) HOLD WITH TARGET OF 15.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY WITH TARGET OF 30.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALT

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UP TO 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY AT CURRENT PRICES.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--July 20, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY UP TO 12.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY AT CURRENT PRICES.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) BUY UP

If there’s anything that will put a damper on the improving market and economy it’s another scam. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Part I -- Funds: Fraud, Fixes and Favorites - If there’s anything that will put a damper on the improving market and economy it’s another scam.

NEW IDEA: BUY KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF)

Monday and Tuesday saw a major slip--no, more accurately, crash--in the local stock market, bond market and the currency of a favored market and economy of ours, Iceland.

The nexus of the troubles stemmed from a Fitch Ratings Agency re The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Trade From February 23, 2006 -
NEW IDEA: BUY KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF)

Monday and Tuesday saw a major slip--no, more accurately, crash--in the local stock market, bond market and the currency of a favored market and economy of ours, Iceland.

The nexus of the troubles stemmed from a Fitch Ratings Agency re

Twenty-eight stocks and funds. And that doesn’t include the cash account recommendation for ING Direct. As you know all too well, a lot of things are happening to our portfolios, and not all for the better. To avoid any sense of uncertainty and to quell any anxieties you may have, here’s the round-up, one by one. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: One By One - Twenty-eight stocks and funds. And that doesn’t include the cash account recommendation for ING Direct. As you know all too well, a lot of things are happening to our portfolios, and not all for the better. To avoid any sense of uncertainty and to quell any anxieties you may have, here’s the round-up, one by one.

We’ve seen enough fleecing of our favored funds by a fickle market. Now it’s time to wade into the taxable and municipal bond markets.

The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Open Up - We’ve seen enough fleecing of our favored funds by a fickle market. Now it’s time to wade into the taxable and municipal bond markets.

stock-investment-information

purchase-china

private-activity-bonds

china-gdp

business-opportunity-new-york

invest-in-bonds

us-government-savings-bonds

invest-in-china

spy-etf

etf-research

china-job-opportunity

emerging-market-research

global-invest

tobacco-settlement-bonds

series-hh-bonds

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emerging-market-partnership

invest-australia

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mutual-fund-redemption-fee

bonds-work

oil

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sec-mutual-funds

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bank-bonds

foreign-debt-forgiveness

emerging-financial-market

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The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Growth Engines 25 -

stock-investment-information

purchase-china

private-activity-bonds

china-gdp

business-opportunity-new-york

invest-in-bonds

us-government-savings-bonds

invest-in-china

spy-etf

etf-research

china-job-opportunity

emerging-market-research

global-invest

tobacco-settlement-bonds

series-hh-bonds

china-hedge-fund

emerging-market-partnership

invest-australia

high-yield-mutual-funds

mutual-fund-redemption-fee

bonds-work

oil

gem-fund

intl-investing

faunus-group-international

sec-mutual-funds

finance-company-trade

bank-bonds

foreign-debt-forgiveness

emerging-financial-market

emerging-growth-fund

emerging-funds-market-mutual-research

diversified-investment

private-activity-bonds

currency-analysis

european-mutual-funds

republic-of-kazakhstan

international-lending-banks

environmental-mutual-funds

international-trade-finance

analysis-emerging-international-market

prospectus

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bonds-73

sbi-mutual-fund-india

By Yiannis G. Mostrous ATHENS, Greece --I have a friend here in Greece who works as a relationship manager in the private banking (i.e., high net worth individuals; in Greece, that means liquid assets above $1 million) section of a big Greek bank; let’s call him George. Another friend, Nikos, The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A Long, Hot Summer - By Yiannis G. Mostrous ATHENS, Greece --I have a friend here in Greece who works as a relationship manager in the private banking (i.e., high net worth individuals; in Greece, that means liquid assets above $1 million) section of a big Greek bank; let’s call him George. Another friend, Nikos,

May 20, 2004 The Man Around The Corner You might not care much about what happens in India. Heck, most of that nation's stocks are pretty much off-limits to US investors. Not many funds traffic in the market, and bonds--well, there are not many of those out The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Man Around the Corner - May 20, 2004 The Man Around The Corner You might not care much about what happens in India. Heck, most of that nation's stocks are pretty much off-limits to US investors. Not many funds traffic in the market, and bonds--well, there are not many of those out

Editor’s note: With several of our portfolio funds now closed, Ivan looks for worthy alternatives that will keep us ahead of the market in the coming quarters.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Good Times, Bad Times - Editor’s note: With several of our portfolio funds now closed, Ivan looks for worthy alternatives that will keep us ahead of the market in the coming quarters.—SL

UPDATE ON CURRENT INNER CIRCLE IDEAS:

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) HOLD.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) SELL.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) HOLD.

APEX SILVER The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--September 20, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT INNER CIRCLE IDEAS:

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) HOLD.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) SELL.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI) HOLD.

APEX SILVER

Last summer Asian central bank executives met in China to discuss the developing financial crisis. During the conference, staffers developed a currency swap model among central banks, which made the renminbi the de facto preferred currency for trade among these countries. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Can You Say 'Renminbi'? - Last summer Asian central bank executives met in China to discuss the developing financial crisis. During the conference, staffers developed a currency swap model among central banks, which made the renminbi the de facto preferred currency for trade among these countries.

The recent pullback in the major averages amidst warnings season has been more severe than expected. But the positive intermediate-term bias in the market can’t be underestimated. The Federal Reserve is meeting again this week and market participants are split 50-50 on how low the Fed will go. But whatever it is--a 50- or 25-basis-point cut--the bank has demonstrated that it’s willing to take aggressive action in times of hardship. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly Hotline - The recent pullback in the major averages amidst warnings season has been more severe than expected. But the positive intermediate-term bias in the market can’t be underestimated. The Federal Reserve is meeting again this week and market participants are split 50-50 on how low the Fed will go. But whatever it is--a 50- or 25-basis-point cut--the bank has demonstrated that it’s willing to take aggressive action in times of hardship.

So the Federal Reserve Bank made the move to drop the discount rate by 50 basis points. Is this for real?
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Pay Me Weekly Commentary - So the Federal Reserve Bank made the move to drop the discount rate by 50 basis points. Is this for real?

We’ve received some angry e-mails for recently recommending Vanguard Precious Metals (VGPMX) after it had closed in February. Unfortunately, the major reporting services we use for research didn’t reflect that closure. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: When Funds Close - We’ve received some angry e-mails for recently recommending Vanguard Precious Metals (VGPMX) after it had closed in February. Unfortunately, the major reporting services we use for research didn’t reflect that closure.

We’re out of the woods, if not out of Iraq yet. Economic numbers are strengthening and in the market, high-yield bond funds are the top performers. Both are paving the way for a resurgent stock market. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: weekly hotline - We’re out of the woods, if not out of Iraq yet. Economic numbers are strengthening and in the market, high-yield bond funds are the top performers. Both are paving the way for a resurgent stock market.

Editor’s Note: It’s easy to hide behind the averages when the market is rising. But when they start falling, select funds continue to perform. Here are our favorites.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Day In, Day Out - Editor’s Note: It’s easy to hide behind the averages when the market is rising. But when they start falling, select funds continue to perform. Here are our favorites.—SL

Getting paid has worked for years now. We’ve built up our collection of companies and funds that cut us regular checks and enable us to grow our portfolios by piling up the cash. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Getting Paid Still Pays - Getting paid has worked for years now. We’ve built up our collection of companies and funds that cut us regular checks and enable us to grow our portfolios by piling up the cash.

Editor’s note: As the Income Portfolio’s rock-steady performance this year proves, high-quality, low-duration bond funds are the ultimate core holding for conservative investors. —SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Bonds for All Seasons - Editor’s note: As the Income Portfolio’s rock-steady performance this year proves, high-quality, low-duration bond funds are the ultimate core holding for conservative investors. —SL

Take a look at the table at the far right of the adjacent page. Yep, it’s a pretty long list. From stocks to funds and even a cash account, the list runs the gamut of companies and bonds, from the US and beyond. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Putting In and Taking Out - Take a look at the table at the far right of the adjacent page. Yep, it’s a pretty long list. From stocks to funds and even a cash account, the list runs the gamut of companies and bonds, from the US and beyond.

Why pay fund managers hefty fees when you can lock in big, growing yields with a little help from Utility Forecaster? That’s the question I’ve posed to UF readers since the first issue in 1989. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: My Favorite Funds - Why pay fund managers hefty fees when you can lock in big, growing yields with a little help from Utility Forecaster? That’s the question I’ve posed to UF readers since the first issue in 1989.

TRADE UPDATE: GLOW ENERGY AND THORESEN THAI

The Bank of Thailand and the Ministry of Finance, headed by Pridiyathorn Devakula, made a rash and unexpected change in currency trading rules that created a dramatic plunge in the baht and, to a lesser extent, in other Asian currencies. The chang The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Trade Update--December 19, 2006 - TRADE UPDATE: GLOW ENERGY AND THORESEN THAI

The Bank of Thailand and the Ministry of Finance, headed by Pridiyathorn Devakula, made a rash and unexpected change in currency trading rules that created a dramatic plunge in the baht and, to a lesser extent, in other Asian currencies. The chang

With short-term interest rates outpacing long-term rates, it’s been tough for banks to make money this year. The handful that have owe their success to the time-honored principles of sound banking: controlling expenses, managing cash prudently, hedging risks and—above all—not sacrificing asset quality for the sake of growth. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: A Better Bank Buy - With short-term interest rates outpacing long-term rates, it’s been tough for banks to make money this year. The handful that have owe their success to the time-honored principles of sound banking: controlling expenses, managing cash prudently, hedging risks and—above all—not sacrificing asset quality for the sake of growth.

The National Funds section of the Tax-Free Portfolio is off to a great start to 2008, even as the muni market--at least the market we’ve avoided--is being rattled. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Market Update - The National Funds section of the Tax-Free Portfolio is off to a great start to 2008, even as the muni market--at least the market we’ve avoided--is being rattled.

Thanks to Washington’s push to cut dividend taxes to a maximum of 15 percent, common stock dividends enjoy a steep post-tax advantage over interest paid by bonds, CDs, money funds and other alternatives. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Plain Vanilla Yields - Thanks to Washington’s push to cut dividend taxes to a maximum of 15 percent, common stock dividends enjoy a steep post-tax advantage over interest paid by bonds, CDs, money funds and other alternatives.

There are numerous great bonds and bond funds out there. But where do you start, and how do you build a collection that will kick the you-know-what out of the S&P 500? By Neil George With the broad stock markets in the US and around the world going through some gut-wrenching volatility, bond The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Stocks? Who Needs Them? - There are numerous great bonds and bond funds out there. But where do you start, and how do you build a collection that will kick the you-know-what out of the S&P 500? By Neil George With the broad stock markets in the US and around the world going through some gut-wrenching volatility, bond

Editor’s note: Bonds have been as good of an investment as stocks this year and with much less volatility. Below Ivan profiles two favorite closed-end bond funds.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Another Spin on the Bond Rally - Editor’s note: Bonds have been as good of an investment as stocks this year and with much less volatility. Below Ivan profiles two favorite closed-end bond funds.—SL

There are a lot of stocks, bonds and funds out there. And every day in the markets, investors large and small mix buy and sell orders to establish prices for each investment. And while most assume that at the end of the day the value of any stock is the price where it closed, the real value is a lot more complex. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: What's the Right Price - There are a lot of stocks, bonds and funds out there. And every day in the markets, investors large and small mix buy and sell orders to establish prices for each investment. And while most assume that at the end of the day the value of any stock is the price where it closed, the real value is a lot more complex.

The US Federal Reserve has moved in an unprecedented fashion and without a complete and unanimous vote to cut the fed funds rate by 75 basis points to 3.5 percent.
The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Market Update - The US Federal Reserve has moved in an unprecedented fashion and without a complete and unanimous vote to cut the fed funds rate by 75 basis points to 3.5 percent.

UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY AT CURRENT PRICES.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY AT CURRENT PRICES.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly--July 13, 2006 - UPDATE ON CURRENT IDEAS

We have seven outstanding ideas currently running including the following:

EMBREX (NSDQ: EMBX) BUY AT CURRENT PRICES.

UNUMPROVIDENT (NYSE: UNM) BUY AT CURRENT PRICES.

KAUPTHING BANK (OTC: KPBIF) BUY UP TO 12.

ALTAIRNANO (NSDQ: ALTI

The one thing Charles Dow knew was that investors want a yardstick on how they’re faring in the markets. With thousands of stocks, bonds and funds out there, it’s no wonder the market has devised countless indexes, all meant to provide some measure of how investments are doing. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Beyond Charles Dow - The one thing Charles Dow knew was that investors want a yardstick on how they’re faring in the markets. With thousands of stocks, bonds and funds out there, it’s no wonder the market has devised countless indexes, all meant to provide some measure of how investments are doing.

Nuveen Investment, an asset management company specializing in closed-end funds, has agreed to a buyout offer worth $6.3 billion from an investment group led by Madison Dearborn Partners. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Capsule Advisory - Nuveen Investment, an asset management company specializing in closed-end funds, has agreed to a buyout offer worth $6.3 billion from an investment group led by Madison Dearborn Partners.

Editor’s note: With the turbulence in the market expected to continue for the rest of the summer, focus on some sound long-term trends with plenty of visibility. Below Ivan reviews our favorite health care funds.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Longevity Pays - Editor’s note: With the turbulence in the market expected to continue for the rest of the summer, focus on some sound long-term trends with plenty of visibility. Below Ivan reviews our favorite health care funds.—SL

We had a nice midweek rally when financials Bank of America and Wachovia reported that their second quarter performance wasn’t as bad as expected. That helped push those banks up 10 percent and almost 14 percent for the week, respectively, and generated additional buying interest in other players.

The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Who’s Got Financial Wherewithal? - We had a nice midweek rally when financials Bank of America and Wachovia reported that their second quarter performance wasn’t as bad as expected. That helped push those banks up 10 percent and almost 14 percent for the week, respectively, and generated additional buying interest in other players.

What’s the only investment guaranteed to keep you underwater this year? Ironically, it’s cash and money market funds. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Cash That's Not Trash - What’s the only investment guaranteed to keep you underwater this year? Ironically, it’s cash and money market funds.

Billions in the bank with a lock on global traffic of what’s still the modern world’s most-vital commodity: That’s why Super Oils are special, particularly if they’re expanding production like Chevron Corp. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Chevron Corp - Billions in the bank with a lock on global traffic of what’s still the modern world’s most-vital commodity: That’s why Super Oils are special, particularly if they’re expanding production like Chevron Corp.

TRADE UPDATE: COVER FIFTH THIRD (NSDQ: FITB) SHORT

Fifth Third stock is down big today on news of a new risk management scheme that its management announced. This is one badly managed bank with lots of risk, yet it seems to have nine lives when it comes to the stock price.

Use the The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Trade Update--June 14, 2006 - TRADE UPDATE: COVER FIFTH THIRD (NSDQ: FITB) SHORT

Fifth Third stock is down big today on news of a new risk management scheme that its management announced. This is one badly managed bank with lots of risk, yet it seems to have nine lives when it comes to the stock price.

Use the

Editor’s Note: With the malaise in the equity market, gold stocks and gold funds have stood out as some of the best performers. Below Ivan looks at why this isn’t over yet.—SL The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Best This Year - Editor’s Note: With the malaise in the equity market, gold stocks and gold funds have stood out as some of the best performers. Below Ivan looks at why this isn’t over yet.—SL

Nothing beats cash coming in month after month. Whether you’re building your portfolio or living off it, the surest way to tap into this constant cash flow is to buy our bunch of closed-end bond funds. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: The Closers - Nothing beats cash coming in month after month. Whether you’re building your portfolio or living off it, the surest way to tap into this constant cash flow is to buy our bunch of closed-end bond funds.

We're bullish; it's that simple. The economy isn't as weak as the doomsayers say--the bears get most bearish near the bottom--and the monetary and fiscal stimuli abound. But a rebound like the indiscriminate 1999 tech rally will not be in cards for years to come. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Rebound-Bound Funds - We're bullish; it's that simple. The economy isn't as weak as the doomsayers say--the bears get most bearish near the bottom--and the monetary and fiscal stimuli abound. But a rebound like the indiscriminate 1999 tech rally will not be in cards for years to come.

The Federal Reserve has clearly stated that they won’t drop the ball. Injecting hundreds of billions of dollars in the world economy and cutting rates for the eighth time this year, the monetary policy is as aggressive as it can be. And the European Central Bank followed suit this morning with a 50 basis point cut. Despite Wall Street’s hiatus after the terrorist attacks on September 11, the world economy is still standing. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Weekly Hotline - The Federal Reserve has clearly stated that they won’t drop the ball. Injecting hundreds of billions of dollars in the world economy and cutting rates for the eighth time this year, the monetary policy is as aggressive as it can be. And the European Central Bank followed suit this morning with a 50 basis point cut. Despite Wall Street’s hiatus after the terrorist attacks on September 11, the world economy is still standing.

Bond market gains have stalled since last summer. But the Income Portfolio’s three individual preferred stocks and two closed-end funds are still tearing up the track. The article references royal bank mutual funds Story: Preferred Stocks: Watch the Price - Bond market gains have stalled since last summer. But the Income Portfolio’s three individual preferred stocks and two closed-end funds are still tearing up the track.