Interesting News

-Google is testing a new application that will provide walking routes available on your computer or cellphone. The current Google maps application provides driving directions that may not be the shortest route for walkers or bikers due to one way streets, parks, and tunnels. Tourists traveling to major cities like New York will benefit the most from this application although Google will add a disclaimer saying "use caution when walking in unfamiliar areas," meaning "don't blame us if you get mugged." See the story here...

- It has been confirmed, Americans are criminals.. According to a report from Futuresouce Consulting one-third of consumers in the US and UK have made a copy of a DVD in last six months. This seems really high, but I found it on the Internet so it must be true. Check out the story here...

- Canadians are pissed that they have to sign a three year contract with Rodgers Communications to purchase a 3G iPhone. Apple is apparently behind the consumer or are mad abooout the bad publicity because they are diverting shipments to the UK meant for Canada and are not selling the overpriced plans at the Apple stores. Check out this story here...

Market Talk

The markets are collapsing, yet people seem upbeat. I try to discuss economics with just abut everyone I meet. Trying to get a grasp on where we are headed and where we have been. Surprisingly the majority of people I speak to seam optimistic about the economic future of our country. We all know the markets are finicky and everything is cyclical, but we are not playing with monopoly money. I guess a loss is not technically a loss until you sell, but seeing huge unrealized losses in your brokerage account will make even the most experienced investor nervous. I am staying long in my portfolio and am going to try and ride this wave out, but it is very tempting to jump ship when the markets are steadily heading south.

The good news is the markets are closed for a couple of days! So relax and have a drink, we could all use one. Hopefully the markets will turn positive again on Monday.