A basic merger-arbitrage strategy involves shorting the acquirer and going long the target. Launched last November, IQ Merger Arbitrage (NYSE: MNA) brings this strategy to the masses and has succeeded thus far. Read More
Benjamin Shepherd is a recognized exchange-traded fund (ETF), mutual fund and stock expert with an extensive background analyzing time-tested funds, including their managers and strategies. Ben looks for investments that have proven themselves in both bull and bear markets. Ben also specializes in covering emerging markets, pinpointing the most dynamic investments in developing nations for market-beating growth.
Ben is an analyst for Global Income Edge and regularly contributes to Personal Finance, Investing Daily’s flagship product.
Analyst Articles
100 top low- or no-load funds, ranked by three-year return. Read More
It’s natural, but not necessarily profitable, to seek safety in numbers. A herd mentality explains the influx of investment dollars to bond funds. But a weak summer for equities offers an opportunity to build exposure to what should be the top-performing asset class once markets turn. Read More
It can be tough to remain disciplined when the markets move against you, but the father-son duo of Bryan and Robert Auer has stuck with a tried-and-true approach through both up and down markets. The co-managers of Auer Growth (AUERX) demand significant sales and earnings growth as well as low price-to-earnings (PE) multiples and drop holdings that fail to meet these expectations. Although this strategy doesn’t protect the fund from broader sell-offs, periods of weakness offer an opportunity to reload for the next year. We recently spoke with Robert Auer about his outlook for the markets and the value of discipline. Read More
With its beautiful landscapes, surrealist Carnival and strong resource-based economy, Brazil is a country that’s alluring to tourists and investors alike. But although travelers continue to flow into the country, investment inflows have waned a bit. Read More
Asset managers that produce exchange-traded funds and mutual funds offer significant upside for growth investors. Read More
Getting off the beaten path--literally--is often the best way to open your eyes to new investment ideas. Today we have dispatches from Costa Rica and a bevy of new fund issues. Read More
The prospect of a disappointing wheat crop creates opportunity for a pairs trade, using an exchange-traded note and a company that will feel the squeeze. Read More
Smart-grid technologies and other clean-tech solutions are more attractive investments than alternative energy. Read More
In these uncertain times, interest-rate risk is an important consideration when structuring your fixed-income portfolio. Here are two strategies to mitigate these concerns. Read More