Economics



Kiva Microloan – Mbolea Farming Group in Kenya

In continuation of the Kiva Microloan project, I’ve selected the Mbolea group in Kenya for a portion of the current REDROCK Kiva account.




Reality Show for Investors: “Survivor”

A recent article by DFA Funds Weston Wellington illustrates the folly of searching for the “next big thing” to invest in. The fact is, chasing the next big thing may seem attractive, and sure some will be the next big thing – but for how long? Innovation will consistently pressure the mighty companies of the world to remain atop of their game.




Las Vegas Home Prices

Housing prices have remained low for roughly three years now in Las Vegas, as the economy continues to struggle and home buyers find financing difficult even at historically low mortgage interest rates.




Kiva Microloan Update

A snapshot of the nearly complete Kiva microloan experiment. This loan went remarkably well, I’m currently reviewing new loan opportunities through Kiva.




Kiva Microloan Update

Originally, I made a $25 loan to Manual Nitura’s group in the Phillipines to help fund part of his $1,250 needed to buy plumbing supplies. To date, 20% of the loan has been repaid.





Microloans and Microcredit – Investment in a Global Economy

Microloans (or microcredit) are granted to those with aspirations of starting up a small or home based business (both in the U.S. and impoverished countries alike).




Tulipomania – Learning from Market Bubbles of the 16th Century

Tulipomania was perhaps the most notable historic market bubble. At one point you could nearly furnish a small home and feed your family for a few tulip bulbs. We’d all be well served learning from financial and investment mistakes of the past.




Does Monetary Expansion Stoke Inflation?

The recent monetary expansion policy the Federal Government has implemented has caused a great deal of anxiety regarding future inflationary pressures. But, does monetary expansion necessitate hyperinflation?




Economy – Initial Jobless Claims Fall

While the overall jobless claims seem to be continuing on a downward trend, it’s better to look at a moving average of jobless claims rather than week to week.