Real estate agents are thought to be almost indispensable for property transactions. While you may assume that your property is in safe hands, there could be conflicting interests you’re unaware of.

In stark contrast to Clinton-era health reform, health insurance companies like UnitedHealth Group
(NYSE: UNH) don't seem opposed to President Obama's desire for change
in health care. They haven't brought back commercials featuring "Harry
and Louise" sitting around their kitchen table talking about what a
terrible idea this is.

The conventional wisdom is clear: Bonds are best for
people in or near retirement. They provide the desired income
and can be much more reliable than stocks. Well... yes and
no, if you ask me.

Earlier this year, Bank of America (NYSE: BAC)
received an additional slug of capital from taxpayers to digest its
Merrill Lynch acquisition. In addition to $20 billion of TARP funds, the bank received what's called a ring-fenced asset guarantee on 90% of a $118 billion pool of assets.

Things continue to worsen in the relationship between Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto (NYSE: RTP) and the big Chinese steelmakers. The relationship has descended to a cessation of negotiations concerning prices for iron ore -- a key element in the manufacture of steel. The round of negotiations began months ago and now appears to have been brought to a screeching halt.