Despite global retail struggles and general confusion, the high-end luxury market in China appears to be peaking. In 2010, luxury goods sales raked in 212 billion yuan, growing an additional 25-30% in 2011. More than 60% of the retail burst was a result of designer brands like Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Christian Dior, Burberry, Prada and Gucci,… Continue Reading
Bolthouse Farms, producer of vegetable juices, is owned by a Chicago-based buyout firm, Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC. According to three individuals privy to knowledge on the issue, it appears that Madison Dearborn is at the moment considering either a sale of Bolthouse, or going public with an initial public offering. Madison Dearborn has owned Bolthouse… Continue Reading
Diary of a Hedge Fund Manager, by Keith McCullough and Rich Blake, discusses the hedge fund industry and provides an insider perspective on asset management. Some of the most memorable quotes include: "I might not have fully appreciated the value of preparation, but I’ve since found it trumps all else, in sports or business." "By… Continue Reading
Thinking about getting involved in a new business venture? Here are a few which are perfect for today’s current events, whether you are trying to beat the dragging economy or flow with what’s popular, consider the following as a great way to get into business. 1. Selling Candy- Even during difficult economic times candy is… Continue Reading
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said in a pre-recorded speech delivered at the convention of Independent Community Bankers of America that, despite the slow improvement of the US economy, American community banks are developing and getting stronger. The remarks were broadcast on a video monitor at the convention of community bankers held earlier this week… Continue Reading
The alternative investment industry includes hedge funds, funds of funds, managed future funds and others. Alternative investments are unconventional investment products, unlike other investments which generally focus on assets like property, cash and stocks. According to Managed Fund Association, “Alternative investment managers are distinguished by their objective to deliver absolute returns, regardless of market conditions.… Continue Reading
Tuesday’s strong rally on Wall Street was the signal for the rest of the world to push up markets in anticipation of a continued improvement in the US economy. In Japan investors stimulated their nation’s benchmark to a point higher than it’s been in seven months, while oil floated just under $107 per barrel. The… Continue Reading
Moody’s Investors Service recently revealed that Apple Inc., the most valuable business on the planet, collected $1.24 trillion in cash in 2011. This figure sets Apple ahead of most U.S. companies as concerns of a recession and credit crisis slowly begin to disperse. Moody’s analysts added that though revenue and cash flow have been increasing… Continue Reading
The U.S. dollar has risen to an eleven-month high as market predictions for the United States economy become more optimistic, while German data continues to boost European shares. The economic upturn has also lowered government bonds, while raising oil prices. ZEW, the German think tank, has revealed that investors have a much more positive outlook… Continue Reading
Whether it is starting a business or keeping it going, the challenges are certainly formidable. “To open a shop is easy, to keep it open is an art.” –Chinese Proverb “Whenever you see a successful business, someone once made a courageous decision.” –Peter F. Drucker “Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately… Continue Reading