Why is John Paulson’s performance a surprise?
I often quote Po’s line from the movie “Kung Fu Panda”: There is no secret ingredient. Every time there’s a major market crash, there’s someone out there who called it coming and ended up making a fortune. And inevitably, that person never duplicates the feat. In the 1987 crash, it was Elaine Gazarelli. She called [...]
Donor-advised funds increase in 2012
Donor-advised funds are major players in the charity world. These are foundation funds managed by an outside organization (often a community foundation), but the person who donates the money chooses what charities will receive the money. The National Philanthropic Trust reported on the results of these funds last year, and the news was good. Assets [...]
The AIMA Road Map to Hedge Funds
The Alternative Investment Management Association, which represents hedge fund managers and operates the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst program, has put together an updated guide to the state of the hedge fund industry. It’s useful information, maybe with a little bias in favor of hedge funds, but still. If you’re looking for something a little current [...]
There is no secret ingredient.
This photo shows a Taoist temple on Qingcheng Mountain, the birthplace of Po the Kung-Fu Panda. Kung-Fu Panda is big here in Chengdu, since Po is a native son, and I’m told that he is typical of people of Chengdu: friendly, loves to eat, interested in peace and not war. Ever since I saw the [...]
Dummies in a Day Giveaway
My publisher, the wise people at Wiley, have a new e-book line called Dummies in a Day. To promote them, they are holding a $500 giveaway. I don’t have ebooks included, as I’m not sure I have any topics that could be learned in a day. But while you are over at Dummies.com, you could [...]
What Happened at JP Morgan Chase, Anyway?
One of my friends suggested that I write a post explaining what happened at JP Morgan Chase, in plain English. The bottom line is that they bought a lousy insurance policy. The company has a big debt portfolio, which is no surprise given that it is a major corporate lender. If some horrible economic event [...]
Women Need to Stop Opting Out of “Hard” Subjects, Like Finance
This is a manifesto for a Sunday. And it’s a big one, so pay attention: Girls can do math. It is okay to get a low grade in math. Math opens the doors to many well-paying careers. STOP SELF-SELECTING OUT OF GREAT OCCUPATIONS JUST BECAUSE YOU WANT TO HAVE A 4.0!!!!!!! AND STOP BRAGGING ABOUT [...]
Shameless Self Promotion
If you are in Chicago on April 13 and are looking for something to do at lunchtime, come see me talk at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business Authors Luncheon. It will be at the Union League Club, so don’t wear jeans. Non-members are welcome; lunch costs $35, books will be for sale, [...]
March is Dummies Month!
Are you in the market for a new book? Like, say, Emerging Markets for Dummies? Or another fine book in Wiley’s . . . For Dummies series? If so, this is your lucky month! March is Dummies Month, and many booksellers are offering special deals on Dummies purchases. If you want to know more about [...]
