The following post is sponsored.
I took a short break from following the Olympics to look at a business-news channel. While watching, I learned that Standard and Poor’s lowered Best Buy’s credit rating from BBB- to BB+. The rating agency’s lowering of the electronic-store chain by one notch didn’t seem like much until I was told that BBB- is “investment” grade while BB+ is “junk” grade.
I’m not sure what Moody’s and Fitch, the other two major credit rating agencies, will do with Best Buy. I am sure Best Buy will have added trouble borrowing since many people, public entities and mutual funds will not touch companies with junk status.
Do you know what is in your stock portfolio? Before you say you don’t have one, ask yourself if you have a retirement account. Perhaps you have money invested in a mutual fund. If so, you likely have a stock portfolio. The majority of Americans do, although most of them don’t pay much attention to the stock market.
If you want to be in charge of your financial portfolio, click the link for more information. Maybe you don’t want someone who’s managing many accounts to help you on his or her schedule.
A company spokesperson told me, “PortfolioRunner is a complete toolbox for a self guided investor. If you want to take the control over your investments then we’re here to help. PortfolioRunner will guide you through the whole process of stock investing — getting new investment ideas; managing and tracking your stock portfolio; collecting, analyzing related news and selling assets at the right time. Utilizing the unique tools in PortfolioRunner, everybody can trade like the pros!”
Not everyone would be wise to forgo professional financial planning services. I am reminded of day traders, circa 1999. Not everything went well for them. However, if you are willing and able to commit the time needed, being in command of your future can be a good idea. Enjoy your week.