The U.S. dollar rose on Wednesday as news that China would act to restrict redundant investments underscored concerns about a global recovery and tempered the positive impact of data showing a jump in new U.S. home sales.

European orders increase more than expected… Was Cash for Clunkers necessary?… Roubini sees a ‘W’ not a ‘V’…
Lessons from Mary Poppins…And Now… Today’s Pfennig!

Risk Aversion returns…  Money Multiplier dampens stimulus effects…  TIC flows show concern of foreign investors… China back on growth track… And Now… Today’s Pfennig!

The yen slipped on Tuesday in choppy trade while the dollar struggled against most currencies as earnings of Goldman Sachs and U.S. retail sales surpassed expectations, stoking modest hopes for an economic recovery

At this point, it is good to look for the defensive plays that have been neglected in this upturn and for safe havens for investors taking profits from the recent run.  After looking long and hard, I came to General Mills Inc. (NYSE: GIS).

In some ways it seems like we just arrived at the Investment U Conference; on the other hand, it feels like we’ve been here for weeks… Because we couldn’t possibly have learned so much in just a few days.

Treasury bonds are the asset of choice for nervous investors these days. But Greg Gunner Guenthner says the best time to buy stocks is when everyone’s back is turned. And with global price-to-earnings ratios falling sharply, Greg says there are some excellent opportunities out there for contrarians.

World stocks edge up… Crude oil falls, trades just above $51 a barrel… U.S. dollar firmer, U.S. bonds rise