The Stimulus: What's In It For You?

There's been a lot of talk and build up of this stimulus package. What is it exactly? A combination of tax breaks, direct aid to the needy, and spending on various projects that will hopefully spawn job creation. In total, $787 Billion dollars will be signed into law today by President Obama. All tax breaks and benefits become effective immediately.

What's it in for the American people? Here's a quick breakdown of how you may benefit.


1. The unemployed may continue to see their benefits continue.
2. An extension or improvement in COBRA benefits, allowing for the continuation of health coverage after a layoff.
3. A Tax credit to individuals of $400, or $800 for couples filing jointly for 2009-2010.
4. AMT relief, with the exemption raised to $46,700 for individuals and $70,950 for couples.
5. First time home buyers receive a 10% tax credit on the purchase of a new home in 2009, up to $8000.
6. Plug in hybrid vehicle buyers will receive a $7500 tax credit.
7. Financial incentive to weatherize your home ( details coming soon).

Good news for power programs and the environment: there is lots of spending and tax breaks for energy investments and the promotion of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. Finally, a nod towards green!

All in all, a nice big package that hopefully has enough punch to jump start progress towards the future. Take full advantage of all these benefits and support the promotion of clean green technologies! Read more!

Gore Invests $35mm in the Environment - Should You?

You don't need $35 million to invest wisely.

It was recently reported that Al Gore's reported net worth is over $100 million. Back in 2000, his net worth was somewhere in the neighborhood of $800,000 to $1.9 million, according to his tax filings. Boy, he did well for himself, huh! But how?

Mr. Gore has been involved in many lucrative projects over the past 7 years, and his ties to Google and Apple are most likely primarily responsible. As the self proclaimed founder of the Internet, Mr. Gore has always been involved in technology, and his friends in Silicon Valley have kept him close during the boom years, resulting in his abundant fortune.

Now, Mr. Gore is investing $35 million with EBay billionaire and friend Jeff Skoll at his new venture, Capricorn Investment Group, which is said to invest in makers of environmentally friendly products by allocating to private partnerships such as hedge funds.

Just an opinion here, but I think he is onto something! Can we follow his investment trends and benefit? Do you believe, like Gore, that eco products and renewable energy and technology are the future? If so, check out mutual funds that are well diversified yet invest in those same technologies. I found one called the New Alternatives Fund that is all about investing in renewable energy sources, organics, recycling and more. Ask your investment advisor if these types of investments are right for you. http://newalternativesfund.com

We all know that past performance is no indicator of future results, but if Gore is in it, based on his past investment prowess, it's worth a gander.



***This is not meant to be a solicitation of any kind. Please see your investment advisor to determine if this type of investing is suitable for you.*** Read more!