Author name: Don Steinmann

Preferred stock symbols are not standardized. Here is a website that will help you untangle them.

Some basic steps to analyze bank stocks.

Different analysts use different methodologies to come up with the value for a stock. They may differ dramatically.

Short term moves up and down can create the illusion that a stock is overpriced or a huge bargain.

What happens if things turn really bad and your insurance company gets in trouble? They have insurance on their insurance, but if you’re in California, look out.

A two parter about how to tell if your annuities, life insurance, etc. are safe.

Looking at dividend history can give you new perspective on a stock and the power of dividends.

When you read a news item that you think may affect the market, always ask yourself, is this just interesting? Or is it important?

When researching a stock, look at why different organizations can have very different ratings on a stock.

Mutual funds sometimes do distributions from sources other than interest and dividends. That may not be a good sign.