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Saturday, March 24, 2007
If the subprime meltdown worsens, will the damage spread into other parts of the economy?
Economists are split at the moment on this question. Clearly
there will be some spillover. But, many believe it will be contained. So far, consumers are managing other forms of debt such
as auto loans and credit cards. At least 20 subprime lenders have already gone out of business. Subprime foreclosures are
skyrocketing as mortgage rates for these loans climb to as high as 12% for low-income buyers. This could spell trouble for
discount retailers like Walmart and Target. But what about the big box home improvement stores, Home Depot and Lowes?
The jury is still out on this question. Will homebuyers continue to renovate, or will the fall in housing prices dent
the home equity cash-out refinance market? Contact me. I would love to hear from you.
10:33 am pdt
Friday, March 16, 2007
Sales of Nutritional Supplements Continue Growth
The sales of dietary supplements continue to outpace other segments of the retail industry. With the aging of the Baby
Boomers, this trend is expected to continue for many years. However, be careful to consider competition as the market matures.
What was once new has now become mainstream. "Organic" at one time was a nebulous term used gingerly
to sell natural products. Now it's a household word and has a specific government definition. Organic foods were previously
only found in specialty stores. Now, they're found in mainstream grocery stores. Contact me. I would love to hear from
you.
4:16 pm pdt
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"Carpe diem" (Horace, Rome 65 BC - 8 BC) |
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"Life is an adventure" |
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Climbing to 11,500' elevation "Meysan Lake" |
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"Camp Lake" at 11,200 feet elevation |
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Setting up camp at "Camp Lake" |
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