GLG News in Consumer Goods & Services

It is increasingly evident that acquisition of land for setting up factories can no longer be entrusted solely to Governments(i.e. politicians and the bureaucracy).Doing so, as the Tatas are finding out today,is an expensive simplification of a complex process. Given the low credibility for integrity of politicians,new land users adopting this route unwittingly set themselves up as targets for...

The credit crunch that is keeping consumers away from car dealerships in September will have a fallout that results in September vehicle sales at their lowest levels since 1993.

This is a truism. A tome. In retail, keeping it fresh counts. Critically. For years, the power of merchandising - visually and branding, have had one target - keeping it fresh in the consumers mind.

The same issues that drove the nations largest Chevrolet dealer group to close its doors this week may prove to be the last straw for auto buyers.

The closure of an auto dealership in general is no big deal. The loss of many dealerships under the same banner can't be a good sign. The trickle down effect of losing jobs could hurt gaming in the local market. Loss of income means less people at the gaming table and slots. We can hardly afford more problems. 

One espoused expectation is for an increase in federal debt due to the bailout plan. And history suggests that growing or decreasing federal debt can have a significant impact on commodities.

With General Motors beginning it's second hundred years building cars and the U.S. automakers fighting for survival, let's take a look at how automakers are perceived relative to their value. Which automakers made this list?

The basic Agricultural Commodity Markets will remain Volatile as long as the U.S. uses Corn for Fuel and the world continues to experience an emerging middle class in developing countries. Hedging can be a two edged Sword. Companies should manage to margins not markets. It is the Brands that Matter.

The US and Europe are saturated markets, with very picky customers. In contrast, customers in developing markets have much clearer and simpler priorities - initial cost, running cost on very crowded city roads,and low maintainance.Range,acceleration,cornering, and speed are lower down on the scale,and could be easily sacrificed on cost considerations. The need to reduce urban vehicular pollution...

Fitch lowers Sears Holdings debt rating amidst government backed financial industry bailout.  Here's why Sears isn't likely to benefit.