Behind the Headlines

Posted some thoughts Monday
Looney Dunes: Middle East

I'd pointed out issue of Arabs vs Persians
Times agrees: Iran Casts Shadow on Mideast Talks - New York Times

Then Tuesday we had:
1) signs of progress in Annapolis
2) Dubai funds to support Citicorp
3) Saudi moves to cut oil prices via increased production

Result : stronger dollar and stock market

Prediction(s)

1) Further progress between Israel and PNA (Abbas/West Bank)
Maybe even Hamas/Gaza if Saudi's want it

2) Dollar turns - Dubai picking a good time to invest, and America is the most liquid market, with some assets marked way down (financials)

The members of OPEC talking aobut shift to euro are Iran and Chavez

Saudi's and Gulf Arabs want long term investments, safe investments and have a lot of capital to put to work.

3) Stock Market turns, there are a lot of shorts, and those with deep pockets can run them.

Bottom line : time to buy