market-economics

This book came in the nick of time. Sometimes I thought I knew what was going on in the market, but I didn't understand why. Other times I was clueless. I gained practical insight into how to approach investments, including a better understanding of the whys behind investment decisions.

Victoria Collins' latest book is for the investor needing crucial information about the high-tech market. Because of the global economy this book is relevant for the present as well as the future. Collins has indeed created a valuable guide.

This book is so Victoria Collins! It adds yet another precious new-comer to my books of online wisdom. Reading though the pages tells more and more about the real world of online business. How the Internet has changed things forever. It's just like listening to a preacher who only talks about wise things. There is always another side in the day-to-day life of e-businessmen, and in the today's media, unfortunately we are only told about the up-side. Victoria so passionately tells us about where and when caution is as important as ambition. How to weigh factors in the winds on change. Why there are more to the Internet business than what's already there. And last but not the least, how it can be really the best tool a businessman could ever wish for if he only knew how to work it out.

You can feel a warm voice whispering in the screaming world of the Web. Holding the map to an uncharted territory. Showing us the way in the mid of shear forces pushing us back and forth, left and right. When you'll read Invest Beyond.com, you can easily tell the person who wrote this book is equipped with so much knowledge, expertise and courage to talk about what's beyond this still-mysterious phenomena to most of people. As if she has this overview that we are all missing. Above doubts and speculations. Enter the reality of living online every single day. Sail to the other shore confidently and wisely. It takes a thousand words to draw one picture, and it takes many years and effort to picture those scenes of the "Internet back-stage" - if you like! Easy plain language, suitable for highly professional people the same way as to others. If you are about to invest some money on your Internet gear, don't miss Invest Beyond.com, the book. It would prove that it's beyond it's value.

This is not a book I would have read six months ago since I am typically not very interested in economics or political theory. But a required class in modern political economy helped change my outlook and introduced me to what thinkers such as Adam Smith actually said, which is quite different from what libertarians claim today. Muller's book fed my new found interest and then some.

Muller examines how some of western civilization's greatest minds have thought about capitalism and the market. He includes thinkers that are both traditionally viewed as economists (Smith, Hayek, Schumpeter) and others not usually identified with economics (Burke, Voltaire, and Arnold). Each chapter provides an excellant summary of these thinkers and can be read alone or out of order if one wishes. One has to admire Muller for his objectivity, he studies the individuals according to their own terms and doesn't seek to judge them. Every theorist has identifiable faults and Muller points these out without bias. My personal favorite chapters were those on Smith, Hayek and Matthew Arnold.

My only (minor) criticism is that I thought Muller could have dealt with Keynes in more detail. I feel he short-changed the man who in many ways defined much of the mid-20th century. I also thought a chapter on Amartya Sen might have been interesting, but it makes since to pick those theorists who are dead since their work can't develop any futher.

THE MIND AND THE MARKET is a compulsively readable history of economic thought which deserves to be a best-seller. I am not an economist or a political philosopher but rather a writer about the arts and culture, and I am devouring this book. The chapters on Hegel, Marx, and Matthew Arnold are each alone worth the price of admission. Muller carries his erudition lightly, and his prose has the calm, effortless, sparkling lucidity of a great teacher lecturing in his prime.

Capitalism is the world's most powerful idea about political, economic and moral relationships between people, enterprises and the state. It has brought immense opulence to hundreds of millions of people and hope for economic liberation to hundreds of millions more. But capitalism is not just a way of doing business. No culture nor any state can harness capitalism with a management school curriculum. Capitalism is a complex tapestry of economic arrangements, governmental obligations, cultural traditions, personal behavioral norms, concepts for production enterprises, methods of management, public acceptance of investment, encourage of competition, religious and ethnic tolerance and ideas of personal property. It is a historical fact that secular states with individual economic liberty and free markets harvest the most from capitalism. Capitalism is not just economics.

Capitalism, as a global culture that defines our modern civilization, is therefore too important to be left to the economists. Jerry Z. Muller, a historian, has given us a book which in its sweep and breadth is up to the task of giving us a deeply thoughtful and insightful analysis of the evolution of capitalism's political, economic, social, ethical and psychological threads from early European thinking through the big intellectual ideas of the late Twentieth Century. He tells the story of the idea of the market, as it is formed and transformed by the great socio-politico-economic intellectuals - Voltaire, Adam Smith, Burke, Hegel, Marx, Simmell, Schumpeter, Keynes, Marcuse, Hayek, and others. As a historian, Muller interprets each man in the context of his time and culture. Muller's analysis is even handed, one of the great virtues of the book. There are thousands of political economy books, each with its own agenda if not unground axe. For me, The Mind and the Market is a level-headed guide through that thicket of thought. Muller coolly lays out the case for each ideology and clinically assesses its successes and failures, giving the devil his due, even if that devil is Marx, who while foisting the evil idea of collectivism upon the world did have empathy and voice for the terrible treatment of workers under early capitalism. Muller's trip through the minds of the great thinkers gives us the insights we need to understand how today?s manic anti-competition forces diminish our personal wealth and how governments with moral agendas weaken capitalism.

Even while Muller brings us tidal historical and economic insights, he also salts this book with one liners and anecdotes that illustrate the anatomy of capitalism. Here are a couple I liked.

- "Cultures that favor equality in poverty over greater but unequally distributed affluence tend to be less market oriented." Muller

- From Schumpeter: "The capitalist achievement does not typically consist in providing more silk stockings for the queen but in bringing them within reach of factory girls in return for steadily decreasing amounts of effort."

- Burke voicing the dilemma of capitalism: "It is hard to persuade us that everything that is got by another is not taken from ourselves."

- Fascists and socialists exploit resentment of those who succeed under market systems. Muller relates how Hungarian communists took control in 1919. The Hungarian Soviet nationalized private enterprises, made wages uniform and guaranteed employment. Labor discipline and productivity declined steeply. The communist experiment failed after 133 days. I gather from subsequent world events that no one was paying attention.

The Mind and the Market should be read by every world citizen to understand how we got the flow of wealth we enjoy and the roles of the state, individual liberty and market competition necessary to sustain our affluence. Capitalism is fragile. It does not come automatically with democracy. US capitalism is buffeted daily by well funded or popular pleas for the state to intervene in the market. They come under banners of anti-globalism, criticisms of the World Trade Organization, preserving the American family farm, special tax breaks to lower costs of domestic producers, Buy American Act, requirements for domestic content, special tariffs, quotas or restrictions on foreign-made products, protection against exporting jobs, closed shops, sustaining the American manufacturing base, regressive income taxes, and dispensations to monopolize trade, among other anti-liberal policies. Jerry Muller's marvelously well-written and colorful story of the road to capitalism helps us understand the essential roles played by open, competitive markets, personal liberties and a secular state in preserving and expanding our wealth.

I commend The Mind and the Market to you without reservation.

This book is different from many other books on investing.
I have seen a lot of books which cover basic terminology but don't
give many ideas on strategy. I don't recommend it as a first
book on investing - the author explains some terminology but
generally assumes the readers know the basics. If you have
the basics down but you are not sure what to do with your
knowledge, this book is very useful. It deals with such material as
use of puts and calls as part of a conservative

investment strategy, differences in investment strategies needed
in taxable and non taxable accounts and effective use of different investment
vehicles - stocks, mutal funds, EFTs etc.
Definitely worth space on your bookshelf.

The title of this book attracted me immediately because of my concerns about my financial security in the current market. I hoped that it would give me practical tips that I would be able to put into practice. I was not disappointed. The book explained in a language that I, a not very sophisticated investor, could understand.

Practical, levelheaded strategies and advice that obviously come from experience. Not full of polemics like many investment books...every paragraph adds to the reader's understanding toward direct application. You could read many of the popular investment books and never run into the techniques she presents which are an essential part of any portfolio manager's arsenal. While the book's title might seem to be for fearful investors, the book is actually focused on returns, and the techniques should allow an investor to make more aggressive moves in line with their goals when one has some control over the risks, through hedging, negative correlations within the portfolio, appropriate investment vehicles, and using options for controlled profit-taking and safer entries and exits even when entering into more volatile positions for which the risk could otherwise be prohibitive.

I've seen a lot of Internet books come and go. This is one of the few that sits on my bookshelf and that I pull down frequently. Author Peter Clemente has his pulse on what's going on out there and shares it in a very accessible, one-to-one tone, unlike many of these books that are just brimming over with geek speak. --Larry Chase, publisher, Web Digest For Marketers

This book distinctively captures the evolution of the Internet in statistics and an easy, fun to read narrative. I believe it is an indispensable treasure trove for marketers, entrepreneurs and students -- anyone interested in cutting through the hype to understand the realities of who uses the Internet today, what they do online, and how the Internet is likely to evolve in the near future. I've found no other book like it, especially the way it uses survey statistics and analysis to support its conclusions. It's really a neat, unique book.

As a small start-up company in the rapidly changing world of new media we're always looking for reliable Internet information to support our business objectives. "State of the Net" has not only helped justify our existence to our investors, but also helped us identify a new target online audience. We've invested thousands of dollars in industry reports in the past and ended up with very little substantive information. In "State of the Net", Mr. Clemente provides a gold mine of useful and reliable information. Any Internet start-up would be crazy to pass up this gem. Steven Canale

If you had the opportunity to purchase only one book on stock investing, this is the one to have. I know of no other book that covers all the bases as well as Stock Market Strategem and I've purchased and read hundreds. All but 9 live in boxes in the basement. If you're new to investing or even if you've had some experience and success in the market you can improve your performance and returns. I sincerely believe that this book is destined to be a classic.

Whilst browsing the net in January 2003 I chanced upon some of Gladen Bretts concepts on investing in stocks in the US stockmarket. I emailed him seeking some elaboration and clarification. He was generous in his assistance and also advised that I obtain a copy of his latest book - Stockmarket Stratagem.Thank goodness I did so.I had read numerous books and articles on stock selection and management by US, Australian, NewZealand and British authors and "gurus" up to that point but found it difficult to distill a well reasoned, simple, pratical stratagem from their writings although ironically the authors impressed the importance of having such an approach to investing.Braden Gletts stratagem has these features. I began to apply it in the context of the Australian Stockmarket in April 2003 and to date my portfolio has exceeded my most optimistic expectations. As gratifying as this is the most valuable features of Mr. Gletts strategem are its simplicity and risk management principles which give the small private investor the wherewithal and the confidence to go it alone. By far the best stock investing book I have read - a real blueprint for investing.

I wish there was a 6 star review - this book deserves it. I came across an on-line article written by Mr. Glett some time ago. I was so thrilled by what he had written I just had to send him a complimentary email. I was delightfully surprised when he answered. That comunication lead me to discovering his book, Stock Market Stratagem. And wow, what a wonderful book it is. As a middle-aged person just finally getting around to begin investing (hey, better late than never), I had bought and read a plethora of financial investing books before I found this one. And it quickly became my favorite, my most trusted source of investment information. It's simply superb. Mr. Glett writes in a most engaging style, it almost feels as though he's talking to you, one on one. His insight and take on what many of us were raised to believe as gospel is a refreshing change from those pot-boiler books flooding the market. I would rate Stock Market Stratagem way up there on the list of books you just have to own as you travel through life. It is packed full of wonderful advise and wisdom - you will not be sorry investing in this book (no pun intended). I highly recommend it.

The book is a must read for anyone serious about strategy in Latin America, or anyone
interested in the Hispanic segment of the U.S. market. The authors have a deep understanding of Latin culture and business and are able to explain clearly and objectively the risks involved in Latin America, while at the same time presenting an unbiased picture of the unlimited opportunities in the region. They also provide the reader a road map for avoiding common mistakes when doing business in the region and present some innovative tools to develop sound strategies in the market. The book's content definitely lives up to its title. Winning Strategies for the New Latin Markets is a clear, thorough, and convincing state-of-the-art volume that will prove indispensable to executives, business students, and others interested in the Latin American and U.S. Hispanic markets.

Eugenio Sevilla-Sacasa

This timely book is a must for anyone contemplating investing or trading in Latin America. It offers the most complete insight of the region's business/economic climate. Moreover, it serves as an excellent guide to avoid the many stumbling blocks often encountered by many U.S. businessmen in formulating a business case or strategy. The chapter on 'Reaching the New Latin Consumers' is most instructive. Here the authors' thorough analysis on identifying and reaching the consumer is vital to any business case. Too often U.S. companies fail to fully understand the Latin consumer in terms of demand and purchasing power. The Mexican and Brazilian case studies presented are outstanding. Again this gem of a book is indispensable to anyone interested or planning to go after the 600 million population south of the border.

For anyone interested in business in Latin America, this book is an instant classic--a seminal strategy book, in the mold of Porter, Ohmae, Hamel, and Prahalad. It's original and innovative conceptual framework, comprehensive statistical data, and rich and insightful cases will prove invaluable to executives, consultants, professors and students. Although the Latin American region is currently experiencing a "rough patch", scores of firms continue to implement winning strategies and reap huge benefits. Robles, Simon, and Haar illustrate these strategies with tremendous insight and depth of analysis.As Latin America recovers economically and growth takes off, as it eventually will, this book will serve as an indispensable road map for companies doing business (or considering business) in the region.

This book is a MUST READ for ANYONE who deals with customers. My employer believes in this book so much, They designed a class around the book that every employee had or has to attend.

A MUST READ for EVERY manager, employer, CEO, anyone who is a leader of just one or thousands of employees! It will literally change the way a leader looks at their company and what it takes to be successful by demonstrating how the employees MUST come first as the company's NUMBER ONE asset! It will cause a total shift in the leader's thinking, from "customer oriented" to "employee oriented" way of doing business. The author emphasizes as the company takes care of the employee, they, in turn will take care of the customer. Karl shows you how to do it with excellent concepts and ideas that work! Reading this book will cause the reader to lose sleep, to be haunted if they choose to ignore Karl's leading! Perhaps losing valuable employees in the process, never realizing why. Karl shares how companies spend thousands of dollars on learning how to catch and keep customers, when the real key, like Karl demonstrates, is how to catch and keep EMPLOYEES, who catch and keep customers. The business then thrives! Karl is an amazing author.

This is a great book for owners of businesses or people who work for corporations. I enjoyed the chapter about managing young workers.

I must admit, Cheryl is certainly funny. There is plenty to learn and think about while reading her book. I am almost for sure it will be a huge hit once the word gets out and am frankly surprised by it not going huge sooner. Her wit is quick and slightly off at times but makes me feel good and hopeful for the future. There are so many work at home books on the market today that it is hard to find one moms - or even females - can connect to. This one is a winner. It does not have all of the answers but it sure has impacted my way of thinking. The one thing that is often overlooked in these types of books is exactly what is one supposed to do with children - really practical doable suggestions that work for more than an hour at a time. I find myself feeling gulity and drained when trying to juggle home duties and "home work" with kids underfoot. The Pros and Cons in the book are even light hearted but as she says, a con is "Your children may see the bad side of business too - the stress and the headaches. When you work at home, you can't use your commute time to decompress." This is so true and then I find the questions overwhelming as whether or not I am trying to do the best thing for my family - and my own sanity. Every summer I try to work at home and end up giving up. Maybe there is a better time than others to try? It's worth the money just for the humor. My other recommendation for a little more serious book and specific information for success - but certainly not dull - is: Why Aren't You Your Own Boss," by Paul and Sarah Edwards.

I thoroughly enjoyed Cheryl's book and highly recommend it to any mom working from home or wishing to. She tells us of her personal experiences dealing with working from home and raising a family at the same time. A great weekend read!

Cheryl Demas has written a great book for work at home parents. As a work at home mom myself and the webmaster of a site for work at home parents, I found the book an interesting and light-hearted take on the ups and downs of working at home. If you're a WAH parent or you're thinking of becoming one, this is a must-read. Veteran WAHPs will see the truth on nearly every page, and potential WAHPs will have realistic expectations of the WAH lifestyle.

Security Transformation is an excellent book for a manager, "C" officer or other less technical readers. The authors take care to present the issues of digital security in an easy to read, non-jargon laden manner. And for the jargon that is put in the book, there is a glossary at the end to help keep everyone on the same page. This is the book you hand on to executives who just don't understand why security is important. It looks at the effect technology security has upon the ability to secure business and the ability to not be part of a larger problem, such as a Distributed Denial of Service attack. The warnings are real, but are not played for sensationalism, cooly explaining what threats are out there and what they mean to "you." I don't think I learned much I hadn't known already, but I did find a nice coherent package to introduce others to the risks, with significantly less amounts of techno-jargon or offputting technical details. A quick read and a good overview.

Mary Pat McCarthy and Stuart Campbell provide just enough technical information to help you understand the electronic security risks your company faces without falling into a complete course in computer programming and Internet data transmission. The authors' most valuable contribution is their structured plan for evaluating your computer system's security and creating security architecture. We [...] direct those who want a more advanced treatment of computer security issues to the book's two appendices, which review some of the same ground in more detail. This book is an important read for CEOs and an essential resource for anyone responsible for corporate security or risk management.

When I read the first chapter, I thought I had picked up a Clancy novel by mistake. The first section says "Are you scared yet?" You better believe it. The good news, though, is you can do something about it, and this book helps you make informed decisions about what to do. Definitely worth the price and more.

Keep this on your bookshelf to get your mind jumpstarted re: where to show your work. It's a great guide to be read cover-to-cover or just occasionally flipping through. The suggestions of how and where can be easily answered if you're wondering how to get started in showing your work. It's like someone is there to hold your hand when you're worried or to cheer you on when you're excited.

...it would stop them from having access to the most valuable ideas to helping anyone from progressing as a serious artist, and leave more room for ME to advance!!!!
I thought I was an ideas person, and knew most of the ways of getting my art 'out there' but this book is jam packed with viable options of all imaginable venues and opportunities, as well as spelling out specific contacts and how to go about it all.
From the moment I opened the book, I was highlighting, jotting down ideas, and revitalised in my enthusiasm to succeed with my art. I intend to read, re-read, and then read again this book. It will become my artist 'bible'.
It encouraged me to put effort into submitting work to a hospital where it will now be viewed by thousands of people, and other exciting projects are now being explored.
A HUGE thank you to Peggy for writing this book and being so generous with her first-hand knowledge sharing. I certainly learnt SO much from it, and would have to recommend it to any artist who wishes to progress in the art world (even though I wish they don't buy it, so that I can have all the opportunities to myself!).

Great Book. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. This book looks like a do it yourself art promotion book. This book gives me hope and confidence outside the gallery realm. Some of these are markets I never even heard of and list many references. Page 45 on corporations is a really inspirational section and even lists some. The book even talks about marketing to public transit systems which is where I work. I recommend this book to any artist who wants to sell their work. This is one of the best art marketing books I ever read.