Daily Archives

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Blue Chip

The USPS wants to start raking in the dough

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This is a big deal… because the US Postal Service (USPS) has proposed the biggest price increase on stamps in its history. So actually, this is only a big deal if you like to pretend you’re living in the 1800s and still send letters through the mail. Just kidding – it is important for other reasons (you know we wouldn’t waste your time).

 

The price increases… will hopefully provide the agency revenue and keep USPS competitive within the industry. You will also see more costly Priority Mail packages, which are expected to increase by around 5.9%. And they aren’t just hiking prices for the hell of it – USPS is required to pre-fund the cost of retiree health benefits which has put quite a dent in the agencies wallet.

 

And a mailing industry update… we are seeing letters being replaced by e-mail and online advertisements. Revenue from first-class mail has dropped from $28.4B in 2015 to $25.6B in 2017. On the other hand, package revenues are up $4.5B from 2015 to 2017. Meh, we’ll take the good with the bad.

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Blue Chip

WarnerMedia is prepared to entertain YOU for days

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Get ready for more streaming… because WarnerMedia, a division of AT&T, just announced plans for such a service yesterday. And in case you didn’t know, WarnerMedia owns HBO, Turner, and Warner Bros. The streaming service will launch sometime in late-2019.

 

Here are the plans… WarnerMedia will look to build off of the success of HBO Now, a service that streams live and on-demand shows. The company will also leverage Turner and Warner Bros.’ brand to reach diverse interests and mass audiences.

 

It feels like… we announce a new streaming service every other day here at Sanebull. There is already Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and the list goes on. Additionally, companies like Disney are planning to launch their own versions of what is essentially Netflix. But no worries – we just want to say good luck and let the best man win!

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Mid caps

Are you interested in why the market tanked?

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Go ahead and scroll up… yup, those are some serious market losses! And to think, a week ago the Dow was prepared to break 27,000. But not so fast – and even Amazon stock fell by 6%. So, why do bad things happen to good people (like yourself)? Well, let us explore the oddity that is the stock market.

 

Interest rates are rising… and to put it simply – low interest is good for corporate profits. Also, when rates are low, investors have more incentive to buy stocks over bonds because stocks can earn a significantly better return. But now, interest rates are going back up, which is bad for stocks but good for other stuff.

 

The Fed can’t stop, won’t stop… raising rates. However, it is a good thing because rising interest is a sign of a strong economy – so strong that we can’t let it get too strong!  So now, stocks are getting competition from bonds because bonds are producing returns that are worth a second look. The 10-year Treasury yield is at 3.24%, the highest its been in seven years. So what do you say – bonds anyone?

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Miscellaneous

Travelers really wants to be in your life

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Another company moves to the dark side… that company being Travelers and the “dark side” meaning Amazon. Travelers is one of the biggest insurance companies, and now, the company has launched an Amazon storefront where you can buy discounted home security equipment. The offerings include cameras, motion detectors, water sensors, and of course, Echo Dots.

 

Buy a kit, get a discount… on your home insurance policy. Oh, and you also get a free Echo Dot if you are an insurance customer of Travelers. This partnership also makes for an interesting one as Amazon has reportedly been interested in getting into insurance itself.

 

Travelers is winning… because if customers are taking better precautions with their homes, there should be fewer accidents, right? This program also gives the insurer a better way to connect with new and existing customers. Travelers will also integrate with Alexa and anyone can ask for property maintenance and home safety tips. Not too shabby for an insurance company, eh?

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