03/06/2006

March coming in like a lamb and going out like a lion?

Hello:

It appears as though it will be a rather quiet week for economic news, but hold onto your hats. This year, March may come in like a lamb and go out like a lion.
On March 20th, Iran is anticipated to begin trading Oil in Euros instead of dollars
(this most likely is not good news for the dollar).
On March 23rd, the Fed will stop publishing M3 figures (why stop reporting on the money supply if it is good news?).
On March 28th, the FOMC meets, and many analysts anticipate another rate hike.
On March 31 (+/- 5 days), Japan might start raising interest rates (adieu to the last great source of cheap money)

We continue to recommend diversification, and even global diversification, as the general strategy of choice. Naturally, each person's specific situation must be evaluated on an individual basis.

Are you, or a donor you know, an executor to an estate? In addition to consulting professional advisors, consider doing a word search for "executor" on www.irs.gov for more information on the duties and responsibilities.

Terri G. Millson, CIMA, CIMC President

Ray Dicius, CSA, GEPC LPL Branch Manager