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Insurance

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The company’s great, but don’t buy the stock


Dear Mr. Berko:

I’ve been looking at buying Kimberly-Clark, because our family consumes so many of its products. When we were overseas, we saw its products in almost every country. I know about its excellent …

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Business development companies are doing well


Dear Mr. Berko:

On several occasions, you have mentioned business development companies and praised their high yields. Please tell me what a business development company is and how it works. I have $30,000 to invest …

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Principal sees potential for strong growth in Asia


An executive of Des Moines-based Principal Financial Group Inc. said last week that the company is targeting “double-digit” growth for its mutual fund and asset management businesses in Asia, as economic growth and rising incomes …

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Bioscience firm with Iowa plant looks like a good buy

Dear Mr. Berko:

My broker has recommended that I buy 600 shares of Metabolix, a company that makes biodegradable plastics. I would like to have your thoughts on this company as a long-term growth stock. …

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Tim Hortons stock looks as good as the food

Dear Mr. Berko:

On our first Canadian visit last month, we were treated to a wonderful bowl of chili, a delightful turkey cheese sandwich, four incredibly tasty doughnuts and several cups of incredible coffee at …

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Big yields call for investor caution

Who can blame an investor for looking to add yield to a portfolio? According to Bankrate.com, the annual percentage yield on a 1-year certificate of deposit (CD) is a whopping 0.69 percent, with the 5-year …

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Deflation and inflation slug it out

Who can blame an investor for looking to add yield to a portfolio? According to Bankrate.com, the annual percentage yield on a 1-year certificate of deposit (CD) is a whopping 0.69 percent, with the 5-year …

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Casey’s tries to slam the lid on takeover

Casey’s General Stores Inc. will buy up to $500 million of its stock in an effort to block a takeover by North America’s largest convenience store operator.

Ankeny-based Casey’s said today it plans to offer …

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Bond experts advise balanced investing


Dan McPhail knows that there’s a potential financial storm brewing on the economic horizon. But he believes it’s still a long way off. Besides, his firm has a reliable fixed-income investment strategy to keep its …

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News of sale prompts start-up financial firm


When Adam Obrecht learned on March 30 that his employer’s Premier Wealth Division would be sold and relocated to Los Angeles, the 34-year-old financial planner wasted no time in opening his own shop.

In lieu …