Investors who pay attention to Japan’s looming election can expect to be well-rewarded for their time.  Normally, we confess, Japanese elections don’t matter much, because the same guys always win. However, this one – set for Aug. 30 – looks different: It may actually bring about the first real change in Japan’s government in 55 years. That’s important.

Q: As a newcomer to the stock market, I hear a lot about such companies as Caterpillar Inc. (CAT), Deere & Co. (DE), Komatsu Ltd. (OTC ADR: KMTUY), and others. Yet not much is said about Cummins Inc. (CMI). Do you have any insight, as I own about 2,000 shares?