Even though we are back to blogging, the length (and timing) of the linkfests will be a bit erratic. Thanks for your forebearance.

Sound advice: “Index (mostly). Save a ton. Reallocate infrequently.” (NYTimes.com, also Market Movers, IndexUniverse.com)

When it comes to indicators, like the recession buy indicator, there can be a big difference between average returns and the worst historical outcome. (Big Picture)

‘PIK toggle’ bonds are getting ‘toggled.’ (WSJ.com, Calculated Risk)

From a profile of short-seller Doug Kass, “Shorting requires a different skill set; you have to have the mindset of an investigative reporter and be a skeptic at the core.” (Barrons.com)

The VIX is at levels not seen since mid-2007. (WSJ.com)

Profits up, stock price down for the CME Group (CME). (BusinessWeek.com, PIonline.com)

SPAC issuance has ground to a virtual halt. (WSJ.com)

We are reluctant to even note this, but more talk about Microsoft (MSFT)-Yahoo! (YHOO) talks. (DealBook, Silicon Alley Insider, WSJ.com, Deal Journal, NYTimes.com)

Investment risk cannot be captured by a single measure. (Bill Rempel)

10 questions for Brian Shannon. (Kirk Report)

A closer look at how the MSM covers economic issues. (A Dash of Insight)

On the self-correcting nature of the econoblogosphere. (Abnormal Returns)

“(L)ower-income Americans get a much bigger benefit from the lower prices that trade with China has brought.” (NewYorker.com)

The skinny on the new Malcolm Gladwell book. (kottke.org)

Solitaire “..is the cockroach of gaming, remarkably flexible and adaptable.” (Slate.com)

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