1. Have a back up plan: Probably the most significant lesson to take away from the whole credit debacle is that it is important to have a back up plan no matter who you are or what your business. Plan for the worst and hope for the best. If your credit lines are cut or reduced, you suddenly find yourself losing customers or your income level drops dramatically, it is pertinent to maintaining your livelihood that you be ready to react before it is too late.
2. Preparation is key: We now see just how many businesses could have been saved from the credit crunch had they simply sat down and discussed the possibilities of a dramatic loss of business or lack of credit. Creating business plans that involve key members of your operation and ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding their roles during an economic crisis, can save money, jobs, and even your business.
3. Importance of liquidity: Another lesson of the credit mess that weaves itself between having a back up plan and preparation is maintaining available liquidity. We recently saw this lesson applied to everyone from the largest financial firms down to the average investor and business owner. Not having available liquid assets to pay down debt and maintain normal business operations forced many companies out of business and pushed many people from their homes.
4. Save, save, save: While you and your business certainly don’t want to tie too much up in low return cash investments, they can be a real lifesaver if or when a credit crisis occurs. Whether this cushion acts to preserve timeliness on your accounts payable or continues to fund your payroll, cash savings can make the difference between a business that outlasts a crisis or folds under its pressure.
5. It’s not the size of your credit line, but how you use it: Whether it’s a credit card or credit line, it won’t help you survive a credit crisis if you’ve already maxed it out. Having open and available lines of credit with reputable creditors can help you sleep easier at night, but as we learned during the recent crisis, those lines can rapidly be modified or simply vanish altogether. Ensuring that your credit is paid timely, kept at reasonable limits, and is available from multiple sources can help ensure money is available when you need it.
6. Understanding what you sign: When it comes to mortgages, credit cards, lines of credit, or similar forms of lending, it is important to know what words mean – and if you don’t know, ask! Due diligence when it comes to receiving credit means more than just putting your name on the dotted line and assuming the lending company is going to act in your best interest. Remember, when it comes to credit, most companies (unless they are a credit union or owned by a family member) are there to make a profit, not to ensure you get the best deal.
7. A name does not a business make: Lehman Brothers, AIG, Washington Mutual. With massive failures abounding during the credit crisis, we found out just what “Too big to fail,” really meant … not much. Just because a business or company’s name is associated with success, it doesn’t mean the drivers aren’t asleep at the wheel. Conduct your due diligence before first becoming involved with a business, even if it’s well known.
8. Paying people what they are worth: Having a recognized CEO that is pulling in 100 million a year doesn’t mean a company is succeeding or even that this person knows what is truly going on inside the organization. In many cases, we’ve been taught the lesson that the higher paid the executive, the more wary we should be regarding bonus structures, investment risk, and the willingness of leadership to look the other way when it comes to the well-being of their creditors, investors, and company.
9. Optimism vs. blinders: There is a big difference between optimism regarding investments, business trends, and economic forecasts, and just moving blindly ahead assuming that economic conditions will remain positive. Bubbles burst, businesses fail, and jobs are lost. It is a fact of economic life that we often lose sight of risk during the euphoria of the good times, and it can be a costly lesson that is all too clear when we are on the financial downslide.
10. You aren’t in control: More recently as we watch credit card companies increase rates, banks penalize their best customers, and governments shift and change policies on a regular basis we learned another valuable lesson: credit should be used as a safety net, not a crutch. With guidelines and terms of use left largely to the whims of corporate giants and legislators, you can be left feeling like a puppet on a string. The big lesson here: it’s their game, and they can change the rules whenever they want.

About the author

Kris is student of business and finance who writes for an Australian money comparison website. You can read more of his work on their blog.

General Information About the Amero

The Amero was originally suggested by Canadian Herbert C. Grubel in 1999 on the eve of the European Union. Since then, it has taken on a history of its own, with politicians and pundits alike talking about it and analyzing its possible effects. Here are some Web sites that offer insight, history and information about the Amero.

1. CurrencyTrading.net offers an excellent overview of the Amero, the history of the idea, and the benefits and drawbacks of a North American currency union. It also includes a section on how an Amero might affect the currency market.
2. Wikipedia: “North American currency union” provides information regarding the history of the Amero, as well as support for the Amero in some regions. Additionally, it includes concerns about adopting a single currency for North America.
3. GlobalResearch.ca: “North-American Monetary Integration: Here Comes the Amero” tracks the progress of thought surrounding the Amero and currency arrangements in North America. A great history of which groups are interested in a currency union, as well as steps that some think could precede the adoption of the Amero.
4. The U.S. Government offers a section on its Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America Web site addressing the efforts being made by North American countries to cooperate. This also includes information about Amero rumors.
5. Gold-Eagle.com offers an interesting look at the history of U.S. currency, as well as how it might transition into the Amero — before pointing out the reasons that actually making the leap to a unified North American currency is unlikely.

Busting Myths Surrounding the Amero

There are plenty of myths surrounding the Amero, from so-called coins that have been minted and bills circulated, to the idea that the release of the Amero is imminent across North America. These sites offer motivations behind the perpetuation of the Amero myth, as well as debunking the idea that a North American Union is about to descend upon us. You don’t have to attend the most expensive college to understand that the Amero just isn’t happening (anytime soon at least).

6. Snopes.com debunks the idea that the U.S. (possibly at the Denver Mint) has been producing Amero coins.
7. The Lang Report offers in-depth information about the exaggeration of current events that is feeding reports of an imminent North American currency union.
8. The Seattle Times offers an editorial by Bruce Ramsey about the origin of the mythology surrounding the Amero and a super-sovereign North American Union — and why it is largely unlikely.
9. Mises Economics Blog provides a brief look at where the Amero coin images came from, as well as debunking the reasons that the Amero myth keeps circulating.
10. Irregular Times follows the ways in which the Amero myth is used as a political tool to drum up fear for American sovereignty and try to and mobilize supporters.
11. The Boston Globe delves into what is behind the fascination with the Amero myth, and the basics of this conspiracy theory.
12. Mr. Swing points out that Candian radio host Hal Turner is largely responsible for the most recent frenzy over the Amero, with his assertion that a “rogue Treasury agent” provided him with a “real” Amero coin.

Blogs, Posts and Web Sites About the Amero

There are plenty of blog posts and Web sites about the Amero. Watch out, though: You can’t believe everything you read online. And, for a shameless plug, I just have to include my April Fool’s post on the Amero.

13. Amero Currency is a blog that offers news and information on the Amero. It even provides information on where you can buy the latest editions of Amero coins (not legal tender).
14. AmeroCurrency.com offers a look at a world in which America is superseded and offers information about the plans to introduce a North American currency.
15. North American Amero is a blog devoted to watching for the Amero, and for the advent of the North American Union.
16. DC-Coin.com is the Web site of Daniel Carr, the original designer of an Amero coin. You can buy his designs of Amero coins for novelty and collection purposes. Obviously, you won’t be able to spend them at the store.
17. InvestmentWatch offers a post (with video) of Amero coins sent to China. With the U.S. dollar on the verge of worthlessness…
18. Amero.aT is a blog devoted to “Amero watch”, with emphasis on an interpretation of events according to the Austrian school.
19. Illuminati Archives offers video proof of an Amero coin.
20. The Amero – What Are The Plans? is an interesting post from MyOneSource.com that explores the plan behind supplanting the U.S. dollar with the Amero.
21. The Amero Info Site provides basic information on the Amero, and its affects.

Videos on the Amero

22. Disclose.tv offers an interesting a video about the North American Union, the Amero and trade. Video includes Obama’s response to a question about the NAU and the Amero, as well as something from Lou Dobbs.
23. InfoWars.com provides a discussion of the Amero on CNBC.
24. NowPublic.com has a video presention on the Amero — complete with a rap song.
25. YouTube has an interesting interview with Herbert Grubel about the Amero, and the backlash against the idea of a unified North American currency.

The following list contains some reliable oldies, such as Warren Buffet and Kiplinger. But, there are many more you may not recognize such as ETF Database (an ETF screener site with a newsletter) and Simple Stock Trading (an independent stock picking blog with a newsletter). Each free subscription offers something different. But, we placed all fifty free investment newsletters in alphabetical order to show that we do not prefer one news source over another.

1. AlphaProfit Highlights: Scroll down the page to find the free newsletter from Alpha Profits. This service does not include regular access to AlphaProfit’s other publications.
2. Bankling: Get a healthy mix of entertainment, how-to’s, tips, and resources by newsletter or via your favorite news reader.
3. Bankrate: Sign up for one or more of Bankrate’s newsletters and alerts to start saving now.
4. Confident Investment Strategies: Sign up here if you want investment advice on stock market and mutual funds trends.
5. Daily Futures: Receive this daily news email on the futures markets.
6. Domini Updates: Subscribe to “Action Alerts, quarterly Social Impact Updates, and press releases” focused on social investments.
7. Daily ETF newsletter from ETF Database: Receive tips and strategies for a low-cost, high-return ETF portfolio through news and resources from ETF Database.
8. Euro Pacific Capital: If you’re interested in high-yield foreign securities, energy and commodities, sign up for this free newsletter.
9. FierceFinance: Get news on capital markets, hedge funds, asset management, venture capital, private equity, and much more.
10. Financial Aid News: Perfect free monthly newsletter for the parent of a college student or for the student. Includes news, updates and resources.
11. Financial Planning: Subscribe to a number of newsletters including a Wealth Advisor, Financial Planning Daily, Retirement Planning and Breaking News.
12. Forbes: Sign up for a variety of newsletters on topics ranging from a daily news roundup to video reports.
13. Free Money Finance: Receive a short, simple, money-related e-newsletter that’s packed full of great “stuff.”
14. Fund Advice: Subscribe to this free weekly newsletter, with an option for investing audio updates. Focus is on mutual funds.
15. Fundztrader: This free newsletter focuses on mutual funds and ETFs.
16. Greek Shares: Use the sign-up box at upper right to receive this “Learn to Invest” newsletter filled with useful investing tips.
17. Gryphon Financial: Subscribe to this company’s free Network Newsletter and receive a free subscription to their Gryphon Insider as well.
18. INCE: Information that is communicated to investors on a daily basis, like financial notices, company releases, corporate actions and basic reporting requirements is provided free of charge.
19. Invest With an Edge: Receive a rich overview of the market every Wednesday, focused on the “most important events” and emerging trends.
20. Investing for Beginners: This is an About.com newsletter that focuses on investing lessons and discussions. They also offer newsletters for mutual funds, day trading and more.
21. Investor Place: No matter what type of investor you are, this free financial newsletter, Investors Insights, has something actionable for you.
22. Investor Words: Get an investor word a day by email, which provides an easy way to learn market lingo.
23. Investor’s Daily Edge: Sign up for this site’s investment newsletter and special reports in the box at upper right.
24. Kiplinger: Online subscriptions here include the Agriculture Letter, Biofuels Market Alert, Tax Letter, Retirement Report and more from this esteemed financial forecaster.
25. Managing Money: Sign up for whatever interests your personal finance visions…savings? Personal loans? Investment research? It’s all here.
26. MarketWatch: Sign up or sign in to receive daily news from this investment and personal finance company.
27. Money and Markets: Receive a Money and Markets free investment newsletter subscription through this sign-up box to the upper right.
28. Money Morning Australia: Are you into some price comparisons and early-morning “must know” information? Sign up for this free newsletter.
29. Motley Fool: Provide this long-standing financial site with your email and they will provide you with numerous newsletter and alert options.
30. MSN Money: Pick through a plethora of free newsletters provided by MSN Money’s regular writers.
31. Mutual Fund Research Newsletter: This newsletter provides up-to-date recommendations for your funds.
32. NextPath: NextPath is a free service that delivers important, up-to-date news and information about financial aid directly to your desktop.
33. Penny Stocks: Learn more about how to invest in Penny Stocks through this free newsletter.
34. PlaceTrade Financial: This newsletter covers a variety of timely financial topics.
35. Plumbob Investments: Sign up for this free monthly newsletter and get a monthly summary and outlook, ten stock picks every year and more.
36. Practical Money Skills: Sign up for the Practical Money Skills monthly newsletter to receive the latest financial education news, articles, and podcasts via email.
37. Retirement Investing Newsletter: This “Senior-Savvy” newsletter is a comprehensive source for retirement resources.
38. Silver Stock Investment Newsletter: If you’re into small-cap precious metals mining companies, this author will do all the research for you and you’ll receive it in this newsletter.
39. Simple Stock Trading: This stock market analyst provides stock trading tips and ETF trading ideas in his free bi-weekly newsletter.
40. Stanley Gibbons Investment Newsletter: Does the stock market scare you? Why not invest in rare stamps and autographs? Learn more through this newsletter.
41. Stock Stars: Sign up for alerts so you can stay on top of quick-moving news.
42. Street Authority: Uncover news about high-yield investments, ETF, market advice and global dividend opportunities through the variety of newsletters offered here.
43. Successful Investment: Subscribe to this free weekly newsletter to learn more about no-load mutual funds and ETFs.
44. Terry’s Tips: Learn more about stock options through this free options-strategy newsletter.
45. The Financial Intelligence Report: And “inside look on what’s really going on behind the scenes.”
46. Tip’d: Subscribe to the Tip’d RSS feed via e-mail and receive all of the financial news that gets published to the Tip’d front page daily.
47. Today’s Financial News: Get analyses on everything from crude oil prices to real estate markets to stock market news—even free stock picks – straight to your inbox!
48. Warren Buffet Secrets: Approximately once a month, you’ll receive a free newsletter filled with the latest information on Warren Buffett and associated investing subjects.
49. Weekly Wealth Letter: Weekly Wealth Letter talks about top performing funds, ETFs, stocks and commodities – an all-around newsletter.
50. Wife.org: Learn more about how to protect your assets as a woman. Get the Women’s Institute for Financial Education newsletter here.

Here are twenty-five awesome quotes from the man himself. I find these quotes to be especially comforting when you’re ‘financially depressed’–after all, he views a market slump as a good thing!–so I hope these can remind everyone that we just need to do the basics, and we”ll be OK. Be a consistent net saver, buy the market through ups and downs, be a decent human being, and rest easy.

On Investing

1. “Rule No.1: Never lose money. Rule No.2: Never forget rule No.1.”
2. “It’s far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.”
3. “Only buy something that you’d be perfectly happy to hold if the market shut down for 10 years.”
4. “We simply attempt to be fearful when others are greedy and to be greedy only when others are fearful.”
5. “Why not invest your assets in the companies you really like? As Mae West said, “Too much of a good thing can be wonderful”.”

On Success

1. “Of the billionaires I have known, money just brings out the basic traits in them. If they were jerks before they had money, they are simply jerks with a billion dollars.”
2. “The business schools reward difficult complex behavior more than simple behavior, but simple behavior is more effective.”
3. “You do things when the opportunities come along. I’ve had periods in my life when I’ve had a bundle of ideas come along, and I’ve had long dry spells. If I get an idea next week, I’ll do something. If not, I won’t do a damn thing.”
4. “Can you really explain to a fish what it’s like to walk on land? One day on land is worth a thousand years of talking about it, and one day running a business has exactly the same kind of value.”
5. “You only have to do a very few things right in your life so long as you don’t do too many things wrong.”

On Helping Others

1. “If you’re in the luckiest 1 per cent of humanity, you owe it to the rest of humanity to think about the other 99 per cent.”
2. “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.”
3. “I don’t have a problem with guilt about money. The way I see it is that my money represents an enormous number of claim checks on society. It’s like I have these little pieces of paper that I can turn into consumption. If I wanted to, I could hire 10,000 people to do nothing but paint my picture every day for the rest of my life. And the GNP would go up. But the utility of the product would be zilch, and I would be keeping those 10,000 people from doing AIDS research, or teaching, or nursing. I don’t do that though. I don’t use very many of those claim checks. There’s nothing material I want very much. And I’m going to give virtually all of those claim checks to charity when my wife and I die.”
4. “It’s class warfare, my class is winning, but they shouldn’t be.”
5. “My family won’t receive huge amounts of my net worth. That doesn’t mean they’ll get nothing. My children have already received some money from me and Susie and will receive more. I still believe in the philosophy – FORTUNE quoted me saying this 20 years ago – that a very rich person should leave his kids enough to do anything but not enough to do nothing.”

On Life

1. “Chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.”
2. “We enjoy the process far more than the proceeds.”
3. “You only find out who is swimming naked when the tide goes out.”
4. “Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
5. “A public-opinion poll is no substitute for thought.”

Funny Ones

1. “A girl in a convertible is worth five in the phonebook.”
2. “When they open that envelope, the first instruction is to take my pulse again.”
3. “We believe that according the name ‘investors’ to institutions that trade actively is like calling someone who repeatedly engages in one-night stands a ‘romantic.’”
4. “When a management with a reputation for brilliance tackles a business with a reputation for bad economics, it is the reputation of the business that remains intact.”
5. “In the insurance business, there is no statute of limitation on stupidity.”

More good sources for Warren Buffet quotes:

• Investing School: 52 Must Read Quotes from Legendary Investor – Warren Buffett
• Wikiquote: Warren Buffett

Namely, it still failed to explicitly address the following questions:

1. Am I sticking to my monthly budget?
2. Where is my money going?
3. How does my spending compare to my peers’?
4. What is happening in my other financial accounts?
5. Can I get a better rate somewhere else?

Enter the online money management app, the Web 2.0 solution to personal finance. While these apps were founded a few years ago, they’ve become increasingly popular in the past 6-12 months as the recession has caused many to focus more on budgeting and their personal finances. Each of these apps goes beyond simple online banking by automatically importing transaction across all of your financial accounts — checking, saving, investment, and credit card.

Mint.com was conceived in 2005 by CEO Aaron Patzer when he was stressed out about having to spend several hours doing his personal budgeting on Quicken. He figured there must be a more automated way of doing this tedious task. The public beta version came out in September 2007 and its full version was launched in October 2008. It has since been hailed as the premier online money management app on the Web by numerous media outlets.

My user experience notes on Mint.com:

• Clean, graphic-intensive user interface. The pretty charts and graphs make budgeting fun!
• Compare your spending habits against other Mint.com users.
• Granular spending charts in the “Trends” section make it possible to drill down into your spending habits.
• “Ways to Save” section shows exactly where you can find a better rate on a savings account or credit card.
• Cool support features: An iPhone app, SMS updates, and blog.
• My verdict: Robust and graphic-intense, yet still simple enough to set up.

Quicken Online launched in January 2008 at a monthly rate of $2.99 after the 30-day free trial. Thankfully, they’ve since come to their senses, and began offering their product free of charge beginning last October, right around the time when Mint.com was coming out of beta and getting a ton of good press. (Nice timing!)

My user experience notes on Quicken Online:

• The layout and user interface is almost identical to Mint.com’s. Very clean.
• Get helpful reminders about when bills are due. (Avoid those nasty late fees!)
• Homepage offers a basic cashflow summary of money in – money out for the month.
• Cool support features: A mobile version and blog.
• My verdict: Simple and very easy to use.

Wesabe launched in December 2005 and has always been free of charge. Unlike Mint.com and Quicken Online, the Wesabe experience is focused on the community aspect of the site as opposed to the application itself. The idea behind Wesabe is that pooling spending information can aid in better financial decision making.

My user experience notes on Wesabe:

• The UI is a bit clunky compared to Mint.com and Quicken Online.
• Compare your spending habits and shopping loyalties to those of other Wesabeans.
• Unfortunately, there is currently no support for investment accounts.
• The user manual is a major buzzkill. Things that “just work” shouldn’t need a user manual. Case-in-point: do you remember getting one with your iPod? Didn’t think so.
• Cool support features: A mobile version, blog, and ability to talk directly to CEO Marc Hedlund.
• My verdict: The community aspect of Wesabe makes it stand out from Mint.com and Quicken Online, and hopefully they’ll add support for investment accounts soon.

If you have an iPhone, Mint.com is definitely for you. You’ll love the clean interface the iPhone app gives you. For those who love TurboTax or don’t have an iPhone but demand mobile access, Quicken Online is worth a try. If you don’t have investment accounts (or don’t care to track them) and if you want the added value of a community experience, I’d recommend giving Wesabe a try. Do you have a favorite online personal finance app (perhaps one not listed here)? Feel free to leave a comment below. We’d love to get your input.

Some of the World’s Richest Dogs

These dogs know how to live the high life. Seriously. They give a whole new meaning to the phrase “being treated like a dog.”

1. Gunther IV, the German Shepherd: This dog actually received his inheritance from his father, Gunther III, a German Shepherd who received an inheritance from Karlotta Liebenstein, a German countess. Gunther IV has bought a Miami villa from Madonna and won a rare white truffle in an auction. Learn more about Gunther IV on a Web site devoted to him and those he hangs out with. He’s worth about $372 million right now, thanks to his growing trust fund.
2. Oprah’s dogs: Oprah Winfrey has several animals, including some dogs. She wants to make sure that her dogs are cared for when she is gone. Her will specifies that that her dogs receive $30 million for their care. (Just a drop in the bucket when you look at the billions Oprah is worth.) True, that money will be split amongst all dogs that she has, but even so, each and every one is probably richer than you are. They’re definitely richer than I am.
3. Trouble Helmsley: New York’s “Queen of Mean”, Leona Helmsley, famously cut her grandchildren out of her will, but left her Maltese terrier $12 million. However, a judge knocked $10 million off that amount, so that brings the amount to $2 million. Additionally, Trouble will be not be so well taken care of after death, as the dog can’t be buried in the Helmsley mausoleum, due to cemetary requirements and state law.
4. Flossie: Drew Barrymore’s yellow Labrador retriever and chow mix, Flossie, has been left a home. Flossie awakened Barrymore and then-boyfriend Tom Green when a fire raged through the home. Barrymore amended her will to leave the home, valued at $3 million, to Flossie in return for this possibly life-saving deed.
5. Tina and Kate: These two collie crosses received $1 million for their care upon the death of their owner Nora Hardwell. In addition to the provision for their care, Tina and Kate also enjoy unlimited use of the lovely home Hardwell occupied near Bath, England, in a town called Peasedown St. John. The home comes with five acres, so these millionaire dogs have plenty of room to run.
6. Jasper and Jason: These dogs live in luxury, since the death of their owner. Jasper is a Labrador and Doberman mix. He was destined for euthanization after being abandoned. However, Diana Myburgh, a brewery heiress, rescued him. Jason is a Whippet. They were both given trust funds of $50,000. As you might imagine, now their funds have more than tripled. It may not be $1 million, but it’s still a hefty fund. Besides, they own a 1,236 acre estate that is worth waaaaaay more than $1 million, and enjoy the finest steaks prepared by a personal chef and ride around in a stretch limo.
7. Tobey Rimes: A reclusive poodle who is worth $92 million. Tobey descends from a poodle who inherited $30 million from his New York owner, Ella Wendel, who died in 1931. Now Tobey is the poster dog for the benefits of trust funds and compounding interest. He makes #3 the list of richest pets ever, behind Gunther IV and a chimp named Kalu.

Some of the World’s Richest Cats

Cats already think that they are royalty. This list of cats rich enough to live like royalty is likely only to increase this feeling of pet entitlement.

1. Tinker: This is the classic rags-to-riches story. Tinker was a stray, regularly visiting Margaret Layne, an old widow. In return for Tinker’s loyalty, he was awarded a fortune. There is a $226,000 trust fund for Tinker, as well as a new home — worth about $800,000. Tinker has been joined by two lovely female cats, Lucky and Stardust. Of course, if Tinker returns to his wandering ways, the will strips him of his money.
2. Beryl Reid’s Cats: Beryl Reid was an actress. She had a lovely $1.8 million cottage. She was also famous for her love of cats. So, when she died, her cats Hamish, Boon, Eileen, Coco and Tuffnel inherited. A friend was commissioned to look after them as they lived in their house.
3. Lola, The Millionaire Cat: This cat isn’t a millionaire — yet. While the other cats on this list inherited their wealth, The Millionaire cat is trying to earn money through blogging.  The Millionaire Cat has a blog that shows videos of this entrepreneur doing every day cat things. The Millionaire Cat is taking donations via PayPal, and hoping for enough money to become a millionaire. It’s an interesting concept, but, unfortunately, this cat hasn’t got a cent yet.
4. Red: A tabby cat who kept bachelor David Harper company. When Harper died, he left is $1.1 million estate to Red. The cat is cared for the United Church of Canada, and will enjoy the benefits of the best food, bedding and medical care for the rest of his life.
5. Blackie: When British recluse Ben Rea died, he left $15 million to various cat charities — and to his cat Blackie. Rea left nothing to his relatives, however. Everything went to Blackie and to help cat charities. We don’t have a picture of Blackie, who seems to be as reclusive as his owner, but here is a picture of a black cat enjoying life.
6. Fluffy: Mary Burton was a church organist in Great Paxton, Cambridgeshire, Enlgand. She left her entire estate to the Wood Green Animal Shelter, provided her cat — a ginger tom — was well cared for. Fluffy, the ginger tom, received $60,000, plus the ability to live in the house and be well cared for. His diet was even specified: steamed cod, lean roast beef, milk, frexh pilchards and vegetables. Fluffy also requires plenty of sun and relaxation. He’s probably not worth quite $1 million, but Fluffy lies better than a lot of humans. This is what Fluffy likely looks like (we couldn’t find a picture) — a regular ginger tom.
7. Brownie and Hellcat: These felines each received $415,000 in the 1960s when their owner, Dr. William Grier, died. Charlie Chan, another cat beneficiary of Grier, received $250,000. The legacies of Brownie and Hellcat live on, even though they are dead; each legacy is now worth $4.1 million. Not bad. I don’t know what Brownie and Hellcat looked like, but the cat pictured here is definitely living the high life.

Social News Sites

1. Tip’d — “A community for financial news, ideas, and tips.” Categories include business, currencies, economy, personal finance, stocks, and more. Tip’d has the largest userbase of any financial social news site, by far, so if you only have time for one, it should probably be this one. (Disclosure: Bankling management has an ownership interest in Tip’d.)
2. FeedTheBull — “Financial and stock market news with a voice.” Stories tagged with stock symbols include the stock’s current trading price. The volume of comments makes for lively discussion on many stories. FTB’s bullish vote button is definitely our favorite.
3. Value Investing News — “Investor powered stock market news.” Categories include bonds, shareholder activism, stock analysis, and of course value investing. VIN also features a robust stock screener from Zacks.com. Members of VIN share in the site’s Adsense revenue.
4. StockTwits — “Real investors. Real ideas. Real time.” StockTwits uses the power of Twitter to offer real-time commentary on stocks. Sign-up is easy. All you need is a Twitter account and an interest in at least one stock. A Firefox extension makes StockTwits more accessible from Twitter. Also features candlestick performance charts on every stock page.
5. PF Buzz — “The best money and finance articles.” Categories include business, career, frugality, financial planning, investing, taxes, and more. The drawback to PF Buzz is that it seems only one new story hits the frontpage on average; also, their forums are dead. But we love their “Top Users” feature on the sidebar.

Social Networking & Stock Picking Sites

6. Motley Fool CAPS — “Investors helping investors beat the market.” (Actually, at Bankling, we’re usually not fans of trying to beat the market. Hey, we’re big Bogleheads over here!) That said, CAPS analyzes individual stocks by polling its users as to whether the stock will outperform the S&P 500 or not. Member commentary on each stock is also available on each stock page.
7. SocialPicks — “Invest smarter together.” At SocialPicks, users can share investment ideas and track peers’ investment performance. Members establish a credible stock investor identity and are able to view or join select investor groups, such as Mad Money, Green Investments, or Value Investors, to name a few.
8. Stockpickr — “The stock idea network.” Users can compare their stock portfolios to Wall Street pros like Warren Buffett, Carl Icahn, and George Soros. Individual stock pages display standard stock data as well as a list of investor portfolios that currently hold the stock and recommendations of similar stocks.
9. Wikinvest — “Investing simplified.” A Wiki for investing. Wikinvest has thousands of user-generated content on investing concepts and publicly traded companies. Wikinvest offers WikiCharts, which are stock performance charts that contain user-generated annotations.
10. Covestor — “Make money with Covestor’s proven investors.” At Covester, users can follow the real trades of other members. Individual investors can follow the moves of professional traders and even invest their money in a Covestor account that will replicate the trading portfolio moves of favorite pros. A rankings page shows the best performing member portfolios.

Free Real Estate Listing Sites

It can get expensive to list your home. However, there are Web sites that offer free real estate listings. These can also be great places to visit if you are buying; you can get an idea of what’s out there — and what it costs.

1. Craig’s List is without a doubt the best place to go when looking for any online Classifieds. You can find real estate listing on Craig’s List as well. Search by metro area to see what’s available in the location you desire.
2. HomeBuyer.com offers anyone the chance to list their real estate for free. Agents and for sale by owner (FSBO) homes can be listed. This site also includes helpful links to homebuying and listing tools including appraisers, brokers, warranties, insurance and more.
3. FindMyRoof provides you with the ability to list your home according to category: real estate, lease purchase or FSBO. Additionally, FindMyRoof includes rental and apartment listings. FindMyRoof also offers a blog that contains some useful information.
4. PropertyWithaView.com has a state-by-state search that includes detailed photos of listings. You can find helpful details on homes for sale (as well as list your property for free) and even find rentals.
5. AllStatesFSBO.com is aimed mostly at FSBO sellers. You can list for free and get helpful tools on pricing, preparing your home and even understanding purchase agreements.
6. House-Hunting.comprovides state-by-state listings. Most of the homes are liisted by agents and brokers, though. This can be helpful for agents, who can also create a free page for their personal agency.
7. Just Real Estate Listings is a Web site devoted to helping sellers and buyers alike. For agents, it’s possible to set up automatic updates by adding your MLS feed. Buyers can get helpful information and local services for maintenance, personal finance, mortgages, moving and more.
8. HomeCheck.com is affiliated with Lawchek. This site offers real estate agents the opportunity to list for free, and provides useful information on the real estate business.
9. Home Advertising Network provides free property listing for those who are looking to sell or rent out their property — including commercial real estate. Great search tool for buyers as well.

Paid Real Estate Listing Sites

Paid sites help you reach more people and inclue some extra tools and features. Included here are some rental and property management sites for the real estate investor.

10. Yahoo! Real Estate offers you the ability to list a home for sale in the Yahoo! Classifieds. For buyers, there are a number of tools that include information on home values, foreclosures and finding a Realtor. For sellers, there is a Classifieds listing package for residential real estate that costs around $50.
11. Fizber provides resources and tools mainly for those involved with FSBO. Fizber places your ad for you on a number of sites, including Zillow, Trulia and Craig’s List.
12. HomeFinder.com offers paid listings for sellers. Buyers can look for free. The site also includes useful tools and information. There is also a mobile application for HomeFinder and a special section on green living and eco-friendly homes.
13. Wall Street Journal Real Estate can help you reach a number of discriminating and high-end buyers. Sellers can look for free. A great guide to all things real estate, and the lastest housing market news.
14. ThisProperty.com offers FSBO, agents and brokers the chance to advertise their properties for free. An easy interface makes it simple to get your ad up there. Includes commercial real estate in addition to residential. Buyers and renters can search a number of properties for free.
15. PropEx.com provides a comprehensive property search engine. List your property for a fee, or search for free. Includes lease and exchange options as well.
16. Rentomatic.comis geared mainly at those with a large number of properties to manage. It’s a property management site that allows you to manage your rental real estate portfolio. Comes with a free trial before you have to start paying.

International and Luxury Real Estate Listings

If you are looking for a home outside the country, or if you want luxury real estate, here are some links that can help you buy or sell international and luxury real estate.

17. International Listings provides a number of useful tools, articles and resources for both buyers and sellers of international properties. This site specializes in luxury real estate. LuxuryRealEstate.com offers the ultimate in luxury real estate. You can list a home, or search for luxury real estate around the world. Get information on vacation rentals as well.
18. Escape Artist is one of the best places for all things international real estate. Find homes overseas, and place them up for sale. Great information on living and working abroad as well.
19. Condo Domain offers listing of luxury condo real estate in a number of markets.
20. HomeSalez.com provides a way for you to list your property in a number of countries. You can also find solid information on the international real estate market, and how to buy and sell real estate across the globe.
21. WebList Properties offers a information and services associated with vacation and international real estate. You can list your international real estate, or find the perfect overseas home.
22. Jaidad.com specializes in bringing sellers and buyers of international real estate together.
23. LuxuryHomes.com provides information on luxury communities in addition to listings. You can list a home or look to buy; LuxuryHomes.com prides itself in marketing to an exclusive set.
24. Search-Villas.com focuses mainly on vacation homes. You can rent a home for holiday or buy an overseas villa. You can also list rental and for sale properties on this site.
25. IntoMountains.com specializes in mountain properties. These are luxury properties worldwide.

Foreclosure Real Estate Listings

Foreclosures are increasing popular — especially for buyers. It’s possible to get a great deal when you look for a foreclosure. Here are some foreclosure real estate listing sites that can help you find some real steals.

26. RealtyTrac provides information on homes in foreclosure and also homes in pre-foreclosure. Additionally, there is useful information on how to buy foreclosures and where to find foreclosures in desirable locations.
27. Foreclosure.com is just what it sounds like: a Web site devoted to searching foreclosure listings. Find bankruptcies, FSBO pre-foreclosures, sheriff sales, tax liens listings and more.
28. FreeForeclosureDatabase.com offers you the ability to search foreclosure for free. You can find properties easily in top foreclosure states and get easy access to government foreclosures. Provides you the option with receiving email alerts when a new crop of foreclosures is listed.
29. Foreclosure Data provides an easy way to search for foreclosures. Includes helpful research tools and a way to contact agents.
30. AOL’s Real Estate section includes an area devoted to foreclosures. This offers helpful information on avoiding foreclosure (for those in danger), as well as a search of foreclosure real estate.
31. Bank Foreclosures Sale provides a state-by-state search of foreclosure listings. Included are government foreclosures as well as bank foreclosures.
32. Homes.com offers a foreclosure real estate listing section to help you narrow your search to foreclosures. Search by ZIP code and by price range — as well as number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Homes.com also includes information and tools to help you buy or sell a home.
33. The U.S. Government provides a Web site that allows you to look for property the government owns (including foreclosure) and surplus property. Commercial, agricultural and residential real estate is included.
34. BankOwnedBids.com is a niche site for Michigan. This site provides auction information and allows you the chance to buy from corporate sellers.

Real Estate Tools

Want to know how much a home is worth? Curious about where to find homes for sale? Want to know where your listing is being marketed? Find answers to these and other questions with a variety of helpful real estate tools.

35. Zillow offers an estimating tool called the Zestimate. It helps you get a rough idea of what your home (or a home you want to buy) is worth. It compiles local market data and more to come up with a ballpark figure. But be aware that it is no substitute for an appraisal.
36. Trulia offers real estate market guides for different areas. You can get trends and statistics on different areas, and see what the activity is like in different markets.
37. International Listings provides a great real estate marketing report card. This tool takes a look at how well your property is being marketed across the Internet, providing a look at how much exposure your listing is getting.
38. Homethinking has a great tool to help you compare neighborhoods. If you like your neighborhood, but are moving, you can find a similar neighborhood in a different city.
39. HotPads.com offers a buy v. rent calculator that takes into account the region you are considering. A number of other useful tools are also available on this site.
40. Google Base pulls information from Google Maps to help you figure out a route for our home search. You can also pull up sales information by searching for homes in a specific area.
41. HomePages.com provides aerial photos of neighborhoods that you are searching. It is a useful mash-up that combines visuals with market data. This site also includes other useful information on boosting your home’s appeal, making an offer on a home and more.
42. Real Estate ABC has a number of useful calculators that can help you figure out amortization, cost of living in different areas, comparisons of different mortgage payment scenarios and more.
43. JadeTools.com offers a free property suite aimed at helping agents present properties. Flyers, online publishing, database functions and more help you get your listings “out there.”

Real Estate Blog Posts

Here is a sampling of some real estate blogs and blog posts that offer information, tips and insight into the real estate market. For a more detailed list, check out these top real estate blogs.

44. Bigger Pockets has a great post on reconciling cost, price and value when looking to buy real estate.
45. Bible Money Matters provides a helpful FAQ about the Making Home Affordable loan modification program.
46. Shak & Jill offers a look at D.C. real estate — and why it might worth it to rent instead of buy.
47. Real Estate Pro Articles warns that condo investing, while it seems like it could be a good idea, has a dark side.
48. My Wife Quit Her Job provides an interesting look at calculating the true value of buying right now. Just because prices and rates are low, doesn’t mean it’s a good time to buy for everyone.
49. Bargaineering offers an article about 10 real estate mistakes. Includes a link to his homebuying experience.
50. Lazy Man and Money compares stocks vs. real estate over time.

The results, listed below, provide real estate consumers and investors with vital, sage and pertinent information about the real estate market. The list is categorized, and each link is listed alphabetically below each category. This method assures our readers that we do not favor one resource over another.

Appraisals

Most home buyers want an appraiser who’s been seasoned. These bloggers are there, as they’ve been around a while.

1. Appraisal Scoop: Read articles about business management, appraisal technology, industry news and market analysis from a real estate professional who has been in the appraisal business for 25 years.
2. Matrix: This blog provides a stream of information and commentary relating to local, national and international real estate topics that were pouring out of the news media. Written by an appraiser and launched in 2005.
3. Soapbox: Soapbox is meant to be an industry resource, a repository of information that can help inform, annoy, educate and motivate, change the appraisal industry.
4. Table Talk with Apella: This site is an appraisal resource for homeowners, real estate professionals, lenders & Investors.

Real Estate’s Dark Side

Why a blogger would want to stick to the dark side of real estate for years is one question. While the answer may not be apparent, these bloggers have become expert at sniffing out the worst in real estate.

5. Another FB: A mortgage ‘insider’s’ view on the lending industry, the housing bubble and the loose credit standards that drove it all.
6. Blown Mortgage: One “mortgage insider’s” ongoing endeavor to cover the atrocities that still plague the mortgage industry, providing you with insight and understanding about the industry so you won’t get burned by a bad mortgage deal.
7. Bubble Meter: A housing bubble blog dedicated to tracking the continuing decline of the housing bubble throughout the USA.
8. Housing Doom: Articles and blog entries cover topics such as bailouts, “bubble horror stories,” housing bubbles and more.
9. Mortgage Fraud Blog: Rachel Dollar is an attorney and Certified Mortgage Banker who handles fraud recovery litigation for lenders and secondary market investors nationwide.
10. The Housing Bubble: Ben Jones examines the home price boom and its effect on owners, lenders, regulators, realtors and the economy as a whole.

Good Reading

Even if you believe that no one really owns a piece of the earth, these blogs still might bring a smile to your face.

11. Big Time Listings: If you like anything that comes out of Hollywood, you’ll really like this blog. Check out celebrity homes, famous homes and market conditions around the stars.
12. Grow a Brain: Hanan Levin is the co-owner of ‘The Champion’ Real Estate Company in Riverside, California. They call him “The Human Vacuum,” and you’ll learn why after you explore his perspectives.
13. Sellsius: Sellsius covers all aspects of real estate, with a focus on marketing tools, new technology, innovation, and social media. Their goal is to inform in an entertaining way, which makes it a pleasure for consumers to read as well.
14. SpencerBarron.com: Spencer Barron is a entrepreneur, investor, and Realtor currently living in Denver, Colorado. He’s involved with many projects, which may be the reason why he has many rants and raves centered on real estate.
15. Unusual Life: Spend time here if you like unusual homes, amazing architecture, strange places and fascinating people.

Investors

If you view real estate as a portfolio, you might enjoy these blogs. You might trust them as well, as they’ve been around for awhile.

16. Altos Research Real Estate Insights: This company’s real estate data and local real estate reports are used by financial firms, investors, and thousands of real estate professionals around the country.
17. Bloodhound Blog: This is a national real estate industry marketing and technology blog written by, for and about real estate professionals.
18. Future of Real Estate Marketing: The Future of Real Estate Marketing blog examines the impact of Web 2.0 and the Internet on real estate and real estate marketing. Consumers can learn much about how to shop for real estate on the Web through Joel Burslem’s writings.
19. Housing Derivatives: Applications and economics for the U.S. housing market, brought to you by Traditional Financial Services, Inc. a broker of OTC housing and commercial real estate swaps and options.
20. Lending Clarity: Marc Brinitzer has been in his business for years, and his blog brings many years’ worth of wisdom about lending, markets and investment moves.
21. Mike’s Corner: This blog exists to bridge the gap between perception and reality as it applies to Real Estate 2.0. Mike is geared to help the real estate professional, but the real estate customer can learn much about new sales strategies here.
22. Real Estate Dispatch: Mortgage lenders, real estate agents, commercial real estate experts, or other real estate professionals contribute to this blog for real estate investors.
23. Shaun’s Real Estate Adventures: If you want to get into real estate investing, you might want to follow Shaun’s adventures. He will tell you that “it’s not really that difficult or scary.”
24. The Real Estate Bloggers: This blog strives to bring a reasoned analysis of the real estate industry to professionals, pundits, buyers and sellers, voyeurs, and the curious.
25. Real Estate, Investment, Finance: This blog will interest real estate professionals (lender, Realtor, banker, etc), investors (landlord, flipper, wholesaler, etc.), consumers, renters or homeowners interested in the world of real estate.
26. Zillow Blog: Geared toward both consumers and real estate professionals, the Zillow Blog provides timely news, advice and information about the ups and downs of real estate investments.

Real Estate News

After delivering news for a few years, these bloggers have learned how to bring it on – especially in the real estate market.

27. Hot Property: BusinessWeek editors Chris Palmeri, Prashant Gopal, Peter Coy, and Dean Foust chronicle the highs and lows of the housing and mortgage markets on this blog.
28. Inman Blog: Inman News is the leading source of independent real estate news, information, advice, research, opinion and commentary for industry professionals and consumers alike.
29. Real/diaBlog: “Boldly saying what others won’t about Real Estate.” Brought to you by Tony Arko, a real estate professional in Loudoun County, Virginia.
30. Real Estate Schmoozer: Ladin Ventures, LLC shares their extensive knowledge and experience in real estate, business and marketing.
31. Realty Times: This is a real estate news network that covers nationwide market conditions.
32. The Real Estate Tomato: The Real Estate Tomato is a destination for real estate news, e-marketing, Internet insight, services and products.

Site-Specific Blogs

While we wish every major city had a top real estate blog, that hasn’t happened. The following bloggers might serve as role models, though.

33. 360 Digest: Seattle Real Estate Blog for those interested in Seattle real estate, popular culture, tech, news and opinion.
34. Curbed: In New York City, it comes back to real estate, rent and neighborhoods. Curbed also extends to Los Angeles and San Francisco.
35. Property Grunt: This is a blog by a “soldier in the trenches of the Manhattan real estate war presenting information and commentary on the market.”
36. Rain City Guide: This blog is a leading resource for information on the Seattle area real estate market.
37. the Front Steps: This is one of the most popular real estate blogs in San Francisco, written by an active licensed real estate agent.
38. Urban Trekker: Tracking urban living, urban-suburban revitalization, redevelopment, green real estate and trends throughout the nation and in metro Washington DC

Niche Markets

These blogs have stood the test of time for their unique qualities, because they focus on niche markets.

39. Condo Blog: This blogger is fixated on condominiums, luxury real estate, urban city centers, home buyers and technology.
40. New Condos Online: This blog focuses solely on new condos, luxury condos and vacation and resort properties.
41. No Limits Ladies: Want financial freedom? Do it through investing in paper, real estate and building business with women of all “ages, shapes and sizes” who offer ideas, resources and fun.
42. Overseas Property Mall: OverseasPropertyMall.com is an international real estate investment blog that has been offering free & reliable international property research, news and interviews since March 2005. Its longevity attests to its popularity, validity and compelling content.
43. Real Sage Advice: Lisa Dunn a licensed real estate agent working in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota; however, her main interests are seniors, senior housing and aging issues.
44. The Islomaniac: Cheyenne Morrison is the founder of the Islomaniacs Society and an obsessed island property specialist.

The Green Life

Going green is the focus here, and these blogs are tops in the green real estate market.

45. Green Buildings NYC: gbNYC is published by Stephen Del Percio, a construction and real estate attorney admitted to practice law in New York and New Jersey. Commentary, however, tends to lean toward green building in general.
46. Inhabitat: Inhabitat.com is devoted to the future of design, tracking the innovations in technology, practices and materials that are pushing architecture and home design towards a smarter and more sustainable future.
47. Jetson Green: This is a daily updated magazine that focuses on green building and everything related to it, including sustainable architecture, good design, green prefab and more.
48. Sustainable Green Communities: This blog is all about sustainable green communities, environmentally-friendly building design, climate change, flood control, storm-water recycling and much more.
49. The Sustainable Cities Blog: This blog is maintained by the CUNY Institute for Sustainable Cities in New York. Learn more about their mission and projects here.
50. Treehugger: One of the leading media outlets dedicated to driving sustainability. This blog is on the cutting edge for green solutions and product information.

You may learn that many economics blogs also are politically aligned if they are not dedicated to unbiased teaching. The political leanings, in most cases, were not noted unless that perspective was included in a tagline, byline or overview on a site’s content. All the blogs listed below were listed in alphabetical order, a method that assures our readers that we do not favor one blog over another.

International Perspectives

Some of the economics blogs listed below are humorous and some are dead serious. Some are both. Very little middle ground.

1. Atlantic Blog: Thoughts on politics, economics and culture by William Sjostrom, an American economist in Ireland.
2. China Economics Blog: A place to find news about important issues for China’s economy including economic growth.
3. David Smith: This economics editor for the Sunday Times, London, hashes out his view on this blog.
4. EconLog: An independent division of the Library of Economics and Liberty (Econlib), EconLog focuses on using topical books and the news to illustrate economic principles.
5. Economic Dreams – Economic Nightmares: Dave Iverson is an economist who loves nature. On this blog he tracks geopolitics and international finance.
6. Economics Roundtable: A compilation of opinions drawn from a wider variety of economics blogs than you may have thought possible. Your host is Professor William R. Parke of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
7. Heavy Lifting: One economist’s astute perspective on global economic issues.
8. Mises Economics Blog: Founded in 1982, the Mises Institute serves as the world’s leader provider of educational materials about the Austrian School of economics and libertarian political and social theory.
9. Organizations and Markets: Professors Nicolai J. Foss and Peter G. Klein created this blog in 2006 with a focus on organizational economics, strategic management, entrepreneurship, innovation, the economics of institutions, and the history, philosophy, and sociology of science. While academic, it also is global.
10. Stumbling and Mumbling: By all accounts an “extremist, not a fanatic,” this anonymous British blogger shines a different light upon economic topics.
11. The Adam Smith Institute Blog: The Adam Smith Institute is the UK’s leading politically independent and non-profit innovator of free-market economic and social policies.
12. The Austrian Economists: Discussion and expansion on public policy and ideological importance of the Austrian School of Economics.
13. Truck and Barter: Commentary on international economic issues, with a take where “sympathy and hedonism collide.”
14. VOXEU: Research-based policy analysis and commentary from leading economists. They are partnering with the UK government to collect global perspectives on the G20.

Economics and Professors

Don’t let your fear of academics overwhelm you. These blogs are very user-friendly. In fact, some — such as “ABBA to Zeppelin, Led” — may interest and teach anyone about economic principles.

15. Cafe Hayek: Two George Mason economics professors talk about how economics affect everything from agriculture to work.
16. Carpe Diem: Professor Mark J. Perry, Flint campus of the University of Michigan, shares his thoughts on economics and finance.
17. Chicago Boyz: Some ‘Chicago Boyz’ know each other from student days at the University of Chicago. Others are Chicago boys in spirit. The blog name also is intended as a tribute to those who helped to liberalize Latin American economies.
18. Dani Rodrik’s weblog: Dan Rodrick, the Rafiq Hariri Professor of International Political Economy at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, offers “unconventional thoughts on economic development and globalization.”
19. Division of Labour: The blogging is dividing up among several different writers from just as many different colleges and universities. Lean toward Adam Smith.
20. EclectEcon: Professor Palmer presents real-life examples to economic theory questions. Palmer teaches t the University of Western Ontario.
21. Econbrowser: Professor Hamilton, University of California, San Diego and Professor Chinn from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, offer their perspectives on current economic conditions and policy.
22. Economist’s View: Mark Thoma, from the Department of Economics at the University of Oregon, offers his perspectives on current economics.
23. Environmental Economics: Professor Haab, The Ohio State University, and Professor Whitehead from Appalachian State University, provide their perspectives, news and analysis on this topic.
24. FinanceProfessor.com: A light-hearted perspective on economics from an assistant professor at the St. Bonaventure University School of Business.
25. From ABBA to Zeppelin, Led: This site provides song lyrics as a means to teach economics. While seemingly whimsical, this site has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Economic Education.
26. Greg Mankiw’s Blog: Professor Mankiw from Harvard University uses this blog to stay in touch with current and former students.
27. Kids Prefer Cheese: A wildly popular tongue-in-cheek yet deadly serious look at economics, politics and the underbelly of life in general. Brought to you by Professors Munger (Duke University) and Grier (University of Oklahoma).
28. Law & Econ Prof Blog: Professor Bhandari from Florida Coastal School of Law talks about law and the economy.
29. Sabernomics: J.C. Bradbury is an economist and associate professor at Kennesaw State University in metropolitan Atlanta. He is the author of The Baseball Economist and has operated Sabernomics.com since March 2004. (Go Cubs Go!)
30. Supply and Demand (in that order): Professor Mulligan (Chicago) uses a basic tool — the law of supply and demand — to frame economic issues. Also tackles fiscal policy, labor economics and industrial organization.
31. The Becker-Posner Blog: Professor Becker (University of Chicago) and Judge Posner (lecturer, University of Chicago Law School), provide their insights into law, politics and the economy.
32. Vox Baby: Professor Samwick from Dartmouth College presents his personal opinions about topics in economics, politics, and current events.
33. William J. Polley: This Assistant Professor of Economics at Western Illinois University offers commentary about economics and “whatever else catches my eye.”

General and/or Miscellaneous

The following blogs are “general and/or miscellaneous” only because they do not fit into the two categories above. Then again, some may fit into both categories…

34. Bleakonomy: News, musings, humor and spirituality about the world economy and its travails and exploitations brought to the Web by “professors, priests, poets, scientists, doctors, economists, students and unemployed artists.”
35. Capital Freedom: An anonymous blogger writes “a tribute to economic freedom and a commentary on the destruction thereof.”
36. Freakonomics: Based upon the book, Freakonomics, this blog is engineered to “keep the conversation going.”
37. Locker Room: The John Locke Foundation’s statewide (as in North Carolina) issues blog.
38. Knowledge Problem: Lynne Kiesling and Michael Giberson talk about economics and alternative and traditional energy policies.
39. Marginal Revolution: This is a popular site (linked from many other economics sites), and it could be the theoretical questions (Would Idaho have more people if it were a separate country?) as well as other assorted entries that makes this economics blog entertaining.
40. Market Power: A former Missouri grad and instructor, Phil Miller brings his take on economics and the power of markets to this blog.
41. Newmark’s Door: One economist’s take on life.
42. One-Handed Economist: Timothy currently is a Business Analyst for an independent Texas bank. The on-handed reference refers to a previous degree in economics and a current interest in science.
43. Reason Foundation: “Reason Foundation advances a free society by developing, applying, and promoting libertarian principles, including individual liberty, free markets, and the rule of law.”
44. RGE Monitor: RGE Monitor delivers ahead-of-the-curve global economic insights that financial professionals need to know. Their analysts define the key economic and geostrategic debates and continuously distill the best thinking on all sides.
45. Statistical Modeling, Causal Inference, and Social Science: If you want to stumble across a blog that sticks to topics within its title, then you’ve discovered it.
46. Taking Hayek Seriously: This is the home of the Friedrich Hayek Scholars.
47. The Angry Economist: Russ Nelson, economist, has been “pissed” since 2003. He likes Bobby Jindal and wants to can Bernanke.
48. The Mess That Greenspan Made: Tim Iacono is a retired software engineer and, in addition to writing this blog, he also is the author of a weekly newsletter that focuses on investing in natural resources.
49. The Sports Economist: Smart and witty economic commentary on sports and society.
50. tutor2u: tutor2u is the “leading publisher of e-learning resources for economics” and for other topics as well.