With concrete steps towards a globally-supported climate change initiative finally materializing, many investors have been considering the addition of a “green energy ETF” to their portfolios, speculating that mandates to reduce emissions will funnel investment dollars towards alternative energy technologies. Wind and solar power ETFs have seen significant cash inflows and jumps in price over the last year, as a positive regulatory environment offers potential for a major boost to these still developing sectors of the energy market. [click to continue…]
Bickering between Democrats and Republicans is nothing new, an American tradition right up there with apple pie, baseball, and fireworks on the 4th. Even on issues that would seem to lend themselves towards a consensus resolution, the two parties have found ways to create disagreements, allowing them to play to the American public and paint their opponents as unreasonable or unconcerned politicians. With signs that the economy is finally beginning to turn (even if it is only the beginning of a long and slow journey back), Congress has turned its attention to clashes that had been tabled and neglected as they battled over bailouts, stimulus plans, and other economic measures. As they slowly turn their attention away from the crisis that has consumed the first half of the year, two issues appear to be taking center stage: healthcare and energy.
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