MSN Money Investing Ideas

8 lessons from a $20 billion trade
In the greatest trade ever, a New York hedge fund manager scored big betting on the housing collapse. Even average investors can learn from his tactics.

How much longer can gold rise?
As the precious metal continues to soar, naysayers abound. But a few things need to happen before the yellow fever cools off.

What's to hate about Starbucks
An empire built on airs, the company has begun shunning its own image for hipper garb. But its big new style is decidedly down-market.

3-step strategy for a twitchy market
Many investors are deeply suspicious of the 60% run-up in stocks this year and are itching to sell. But then what? Here's how to take some gains now while setting up a profitable 2010.

What's to love about Starbucks
Even if you never stop at one, the coffee lover in you benefits from the ubiquitous fuel stops -- because Starbucks created the demand that made your local coffee shop possible.

Farewell to Wall St.'s decade of hubris
The era will be remembered for 2 burst financial bubbles and a rogue's gallery of scoundrels who rewarded themselves well and delivered very little.

Go east (and south), young man
As the United States loses ground to the emerging markets of China, India and Brazil, the opportunities that beckon will spur more Americans to seek their fortunes there.

Will defunct Aztek lead GM into the future?
The midsized crossover was reviled as one of the worst cars of all time. But it represents the kind of risk-taking GM needs as it emerges from bankruptcy.

Will silver outshine gold?
Sure, gold costs a lot more and gets most of the attention, but its white-metal sister could be the better buy today.

Investments that let you sleep tight
Are you more concerned about safety than supercharged returns? Here are 9 low-worry stock and bond funds, plus 3 of the market's steadiest stocks.

The rich are back, and you can profit
At the height of the meltdown, the wealthy hid their cash and stopped spending. But luxury is back in style, and these 15 stocks will help you play that trend.

Let China put money in your pocket
When China relaxes the peg that ties its currency to the US dollar, a lot of pent-up appreciation will be unleashed. If you're an investor, it'd be wise to make a move soon.

More funds playing a risky game
Managers desperate for returns are trying to time the market, even when their funds don't advertise the fact. Some are profiting. But longer term, timing can give you whiplash.

Arrogant Fed hasn't learned a thing
The bubbles, toils and troubles that nearly wrecked the financial system should've been obvious to the policymaking numbskulls whose monetary tricks made matters worse.

Has Apple blown its big chance?
While competitors have been losing market share, the company has failed to capitalize on an opportunity to achieve utter dominance -- leaving the door open for its rivals.

New crisis ahead? 5 things to watch
Thanks to confusion, shortsightedness and anger, global markets are on course to be wiped out by a third -- if we're lucky, renowned bear Bob Janjuah says. If not, expect markets to fall by half.

Arby's slipping down the food chain
Yes, it operates in many economically stressed communities. But the chain hasn't taken the types of steps that other, more-successful fast-food purveyors have.

Your guide to insiders' stock moves
The top execs naturally know more about a company than the average investor, so if they're buying stock, it might be good for you to buy, too. But not always.

8 restaurants that are on a roll
They say investors should buy what they know. Why not buy what people are eating? These restaurants are cookin' as recession-weary Americans crave comfort food.

5 early investing ideas for 2010
The easy money in this bull market has been made, but if you're waiting for a downturn, you're missing out. Here's how to play the key sectors.

Here comes the big tax squeeze
Governments large and small have begun to ratchet up taxes. As a result, expect a slower economic recovery and, possibly, an attempt to increase taxes on retirement accounts.