June 2009 Archives

I recently spent a couple of days at a gathering that was attended by investor relations executives from some of America’s most loved and largest companies who listened intently to, and had the opportunity to converse with, former SEC chairmen, noted economists, authors of best-selling business books, the head of a large investment bank and astute peers.

Since the meeting was not open to the media and the executives paid big bucks to attend, I will not quote anyone directly or provide the color to which only paid attendees should be privy.  Nevertheless, here is a link to a few solid nuggets of advice and opinion that came forth—pragmatic, to save one from legal harm;  worrisome to keep us up at night when we are starting to sleep a little better; and, alas, some feel-good opinion.

-- Roger Pondel, President, rpondel@pondel.com

In the next several weeks, a confluence of events will occur that historically have caused significant trading volumes and some volatility in the equity market.
 
1. Quadruple Witching – June 19
2. S&P – June 19
3. Russell – June 26 

A recent NASDAQ seminar provided some interesting information regarding these events. One panelist postulated that the volatility might not be as pronounced this year as in the past due to diminished risk appetite that could limit some “gaming.”  Another noted the SEC's crackdown on naked shorting that should have a dampening effect.  All said, it's better to be prepared and level headed as we ride out some of the heaviest trading days of the year. 

-- Rob Whetstone, Managing Director, rwhetstone@pondel.com