Money & Investing - Banks.com

Today, the stock market is continuing its rally. Indeed, today’s payroll data put some heart into investors, encouraging them to continue the overall rally that has been seen on the stock market since the middle of March.

Part of the optimism is coming from the fact that many are proclaiming that the worst is over in terms of the credit market crisis and the economy. Indeed, the new standard for recovery is fast becoming “not as bad as we thought.” Pair today’s payroll data with a Fed infusion and the rate cut earlier this week, and the stock market is feeling better.

But how long will it last?

Some aren’t so sure about the current stock market rally. Even though consumer spending is creeping higher, there are still some issues that need to be dealt with. Eric Roseman mentions the stock market rally on his blog:

But, as I have commented here before over the last few weeks, this rally has dangerous undertones and investors should remain cautious. Key credit market indicators remain clogged or still illiquid, highly bruised and unlikely to recover any time soon.

As always, and especially in these volatile times, caution is need in stock investing.

Yahoo! (YHOO) and Microsoft (MSFT) still making headlines

The latest in the Yahoo! (YHOO) and Microsoft (MSFT) story is that, even as Yahoo! prepares to run Google ads, Microsoft is contemplating a hostile takeover. Microsoft badly wants a piece of the search market, and is well-known for doing what it takes to get what it wants.

YHOO is gaining today, even as MSFT is slightly down. Is it perhaps because many investors believe the hostile takeover rumor?

Disclaimer: I am not an investment professional. Nothing in this piece or on this Web site should be construed as investment advice. Before making investment decisions, do your own research and/or consult with an investment professional. All investment comes with the risk of loss.

Tags: stock market, stock market news, investing blog, stock market rally,
economy, MSFT, YHOO