November 28, 2010

High Cotton…


A funny thing happened while I was in Asia—cotton made new all time highs. I’m a big believer in watching what assets are at new highs as new highs always tell you an interesting story. What sectors are booming? What’s popular as an investment? What associated industries should be doing well, or hurting? You always have to ask yourself those questions.  All time highs Read More
Categories: Comments On Events
Positions Mentioned:
November 19, 2010

A Way To “Play” Mongolia?


I apologize in advance that it will take some legwork to buy shares in BDSec. Some of this is a repeat for frequent readers of this site, but I want to put all the information in one place. I have finally found a way to get some exposure to Mongolia. Finally…. BDSec JSC (BDS MO Bloomberg Ticker) is the largest brokerage firm in Mongolia. It Read More
Categories: Investments
Positions Mentioned:
November 15, 2010

Dead End (For Now) In Cambodia


No entry visa? No problem. I was at the airport in Siem Reap, Cambodia. No one said anything previously about an entry visa, but for $20, one magically appeared in my passport. Over the years, I’ve sent documents, photos and my passport to all sorts of third world nations. After a few anxious days (losing your passport is like losing your freedom), the passport Read More
Categories: Travels
Positions Mentioned:
November 7, 2010

Banking (Cambodia Style)


If you want to really know what’s going on in a country, talk to the top bankers. They always know about the leading indicators both for future growth and problems. They know loan demand from expanding businesses and they know which industries are currently having trouble repaying debt. It is their job to know their clients. Bankers can be an invaluable resource. Government data Read More
Categories: Travels
Positions Mentioned:
October 29, 2010

Beer and Babes


As we come into the homestretch of yet another dismal political season, I thought it would be helpful to remember a simpler time, a time when politicians promised only two things; beer and babes. Naturally, I’m talking about the election for fraternity president. It was my first taste of true politics. Sure, we had middle-school student council elections, but we always knew those were Read More
Categories: Comments On Events
Positions Mentioned: