The top bid in Bloggers for Charity is now $250. The top three bids were made by Glenn of InsuranceSquared, Dale Rathgeber ($200) and The Cynical Investor ($88.88). Thanks guys! Do I hear a bid for $300?
Events in European financial markets continue to dominate the headlines. It appears that the contagion is spreading now to the core of the Euro zone. The Economist magazine explained what’s going on — higher bond yields, trouble at European banks and the spectre of a credit crunch.
The Economist magazine also published a column comparing housing price valuation in different countries. It found that according to its measures, housing is undervalued (when compared to rents and income) in the US, Germany and Japan. It also found housing is significantly overvalued in Canada. The magazine’s interactive tool allows you to examine and compare housing prices indicators over time and between markets.
A new report from BMO Economics makes a strong case for diversification by sector, by asset classes and across international markets.
Perhaps this is a wee bit off-topic but a recent New York Times column on decluttering caught my eye. We could definitely do with getting rid of unused items.
Around the blogs
Trying to invest like the rich is like trying to become a surgeon by walking around in scrubs says Michael James.
My Own Advisor explains why he signed up for the MBNA Smart Cash Platinum Plus MasterCard.
Jim Yih of the Retire Happy Blog explains the basics of estate planning and probate in this article.
Canadian Couch Potato panned a recent article by a well-known commentator that encourages performance chasing.
Million Dollar Journey weighed in on a Canadian Money Forum discussion on whether it is realistic to earn $90,000 in salary by age 30.
Christmas is just around the corner and Canadian Financial Stuff has some tips to plan for the holiday expenses.
The Bank Nerd rounded up the best financial websites for Canadians.
Congratulations to Squawk Fox who got married on a shoe string budget.
Money Smarts Blog has a very good tip for these turbulent times: tune out the financial media.