Consumer Goods & Services News by GLG Council Members

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.

The annual compound growth rate of diamond and jewelery business in India is about 14% per annum from 2008 to 2011. This change in retail will give lot of help to Indian Economy to grow.

With all of the past weeks bailouts, buyouts, federal government purchases and bankruptcies', it was not surprising to hear that Congress is expected to approve a $25 billion loan package for the Detroit Three. However, there are a lot of "ifs" that will have to happen before Detroit is out of the woods.

While the end of food inflation is not at hand, restaurants must manage the price/value/promotion relationship cafefully. New factors have emerged this week that will affect restaurants. Some restaurant companies will have earnings shortfalls later in 2009.