This and That: Baby bull or sucker rally?

1. As equities bounce back from their lows in early March, investors will be wondering how long it will take for the portfolio to recover. Surprisingly, stocks have taken seven years or more to to fully recoup losses following severe bear markets such as the one we’re experiencing.
2. Maclean’s magazine says that for all the problems facing the economy, some economists are making a cautious case for optimism.
3. Apparently, pro-sports athletes could give lottery winners a run for their money in going from riches to rags. One reason, explains this Sports Illustrated article, is that the pros invest in dubious investments, such as an inflatable raft that would sit under furniture that consumers in high-rainfall areas can use to float their sofa and keep dry! (Hat tip to Market blog for the link).
4. John Heinzl on the five tips not found in Derek Foster’s books.
5. Canadian Financial DIY reviews and rates the web tax software for NETFILE. The surprising winner: UFile.
6. Michael James on Money has a system for playing the 6/49 that has a long-term expectation of profit.
7. Money Ning finds surprises lurking in his bank statements and has a useful tip: always check your bills and statements.
8. Blunt Money wonders if it is a good idea to pay your kids for grades.
9. Million Dollar Journey answered a reader question on how self-directed RRSPs work.
10. Clever Dude explained why everyone needs an emergency fund and offered some advice on building one.

Have a great weekend everyone!