SMI Dayton Club to host Mark Biller and Matthew Pryor

Last year, an SMI Investment Club was started in Dayton, Ohio.

Tomorrow, Executive Editor Mark Biller and myself will make a guest appearance. The club will meet from 6:30 - 8:00 PM at Far Hills Community Church. The church address is 5800 Clyo Road, Centerville, OH 45459. We will be here to share about SMI, explain how SMI can help you invest using Biblical principles, as well as answer questions.

If you're in the area, we hope you'll bring a friend and come visit. We'd love to meet you.

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Tag(s): SMI Investment Club

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Get a Free 30-Day Trial and Take Control of Your Finances

You’re not alone if your credit card bills are forcing you to realize you need to get serious about your finances and investing. It's time to put intention into action.

During January, we're offering a no-risk Free 30-Day Trial Web Membership where you get instant access to our market beating investing strategies.

You also get unlimited access to our web-only tools, including: Personal Portfolio Tracker, Income Portfolio Tool, Editors' Blog and Member Message Boards.

The start of a new year is a terrific time to begin your journey toward financial security and investing success, and we're here to help you every step of the way.

Success takes commitment. Decide today to take control of your finances!

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Sound Mind Investing profiled by MarketWatch

It's pretty rare for SMI to get national media attention, so we were pleasantly surprised to unexpectedly see this flattering profile by Peter Brimelow of Marketwatch recently. The author didn't talk with anyone here, so we had no idea it was coming.

Brimelow works with Mark Hulbert at the Hulbert Financial Digest. For those unfamiliar with Hulbert, they are sort of the third-party scorekeeper of investment newsletters. They subscribe to all the known investment letters and then monitor the performance of each one in real-time to provide an independent source of investment performance. Think Consumer Reports for investment letters. While we've had some issues with how they've calculated SMI's performance in the past (they average all our JtB and Upgrading portfolio allocations, then compare those to the stock market averages), they serve an important purpose and generally get things pretty much correct.

Brimelow correctly notes SMI's strong focus on asset allocation:

Sound Mind Investing takes an unusually comprehensive and disciplined financial-planning approach. It attempts to establish its reader’s “investment temperament” by means of an online quiz (“If you’re married, it’s a good idea to have your spouse take the quiz, too”) and focuses on tax-advantaged asset allocation, by far the most powerful decision for any investor, albeit one often neglected in favor of glamorous equity portfolios alone. Sound Mind also urges saving and getting out of debt.

Significantly, he also took the time to break out the performance of SMI's 100% stock Upgrading portfolio separately. (This has really been the sticking point with us regarding how they present our performance — this has tended to get buried.)

Its top-performing Fund Upgrading Strategy: 100% Stock Portfolio has appreciated an impressive 9.1% annualized since the HFD began following it in 1995, vs. just 6.7 % annualized for the Wilshire.

That type of outperformance is no surprise to readers who have been around long enough to experience those gains. But for newer readers, or prospective readers trying to decide whether to jump aboard, it's extremely helpful to see those long-term performance numbers confirmed and validated by a totally-independent third party source who has been accumulating that data month by month over the entire period.

Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar

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Category(s): SMI General Announcements, SMI Model Portfolios
Tag(s): Model portfolio, performance, upgrading

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SMI's Mark Biller talks investing with Howard Dayton

SMI's Executive Editor Mark Biller answers questions about investing today on MoneyWise, the nationally syndicated radio program hosted by Howard Dayton and Steve Moore.

MoneyWise is produced by Compass — finances God's way, a ministry Howard launched in 2009 after leaving Crown Financial Ministries. The program is heard on more than 400 stations and outlets.

Visit the station listings page to find your local broadcast time or you can listen below.

Use the audio player below to listen (click the arrow for the program you want to hear).

Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar

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An unintended consequence of saving money

In April 2010, we gave up TV when we bought a new house. Our thinking was, "New house, new beginnings, let's try life without cable." This past Spring, I wrote an update for a post on how we cut the costs of digital services. Here's part of what I wrote regarding giving up TV:

So how's the past year been with no signal? Mostly good, I'm glad to report. Now to be fair, we do have Netflix which can stream to our TV, so when we need a video-entertainment fix we can get one. But dropping cable has drastically reduced our watching. Our girls didn't watch that much before anyway, but even less now...

And it's the last sentence that I want to pay particular attention to: Our girls didn't watch that much before anyway, but even less now. And because what they do watch is on Netflix, there are no commercials. Now let me stop and say that we do not profess to be perfect parents, nor do we have perfect kids. But one area where our girls do not struggle with is materialism. Sure they like to look at toys (if we let them) but they don't "have to have" the next big thing. Why? Because they don't even know what the next big thing is. Why? Mostly because they don't see commercials. What things they do know about, it's because they've seen them at their friends' houses.

And materialism isn't a struggle confined to adults or teens or even tweens. Don't think a 3-year-old and a 6-year-old can't struggle with it too. Marketers are very strategic in going after our children. And they're only growing more and more savvy as they reach mediums outside the television. And while you don't have to cut cable to raise non-materialistic children, it certainly doesn't hurt.

Now I'm not saying that my kids never ask for anything, but it's rare (because when they do ask, they know we'll likely say "no" and that they'll have to use their own money). And having children content with what they have produces another unintended consequence: it frees us up to really take pleasure in the joy of giving. I've never been a fan of lists for birthdays or Christmas. Do you know how fun it is to search out that perfect gift that they didn't even know existed? It's a blast. And if it's an item that they happened to know about, they're delighted anyway because they were trying to save up for it (saving money mostly pertains to my 6-year-old as the 3-year-old is still learning the concept of money).

Talk about fun, one time I took them to Toys "R" Us to let them each pick out a small present. Why? Just because I love them and thought it would be fun for them. They were in awe, especially the younger one as she didn't even know such a place existed... a place with ONLY toys? Well, we looked up and down each aisle for quite some time because they had no idea what was even out there. After ruling out toys I thought would get limited use, conveyed the wrong image, or were too expensive, we settled on presents for each. And get this, the younger one picked books... BOOKS!

You see, the major purpose for a commercial is to create discontent. Remove commercials and there's one less device out there to compete with when trying to rear children to love the Lord first. So it's easy to see that of all the digital services we scaled back on, cutting out cable TV was the most profound, both in saving money and otherwise.

Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar

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SMI's Mark Biller talks gold with Howard Dayton

SMI's executive editor Mark Biller is the guest today on MoneyWise, the nationally syndicated radio program hosted by Howard Dayton and Steve Moore. The subject: gold.

As a reminder, MoneyWise, which debuted in March, is produced by Compass — finances God's way, a ministry Howard launched in 2009 after leaving Crown Financial Ministries. The program is heard on more than 400 stations and outlets.

The timing of this radio program coincides nicely with our recently released 21-page FREE report: Gold as an Investment: Will Precious Metals Continue To Shine? Get your free copy today!

Use the audio players below to listen (click the arrow for the program you want to hear).

Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar

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Category(s): Current Market Events, Inflation Watch, SMI General Announcements
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Joseph Slife's new radio program makes its debut

As you may know by now, former SMI Assistant Editor Joseph Slife, is working for World Magazine, producing and co-hosting a new radio program called, The World and Everything In It. It's a "fast-paced, week-in-review radio news program that airs weekends on the Salem Radio Network and features reports, interviews, and analysis from WORLD's editorial team."

On August 6th, The World and Everything In It had it's broadcast debut. The program covered the following topics:

• Mubarak on trial in Egypt | Debt-ceiling raised | Stocks fall off a cliff
 
• Will the debt deal endanger national security? A conversation with Ambassador John Bolton
 
• Defense and the debt ceiling by John R. Bolton (DecideAmerica.com)
 
• The world of ideas — a conversation with WORLD magazine founder Joel Belz
 
• Captain America throws his mighty shield: WORLD’s Megan Basham reviews
 
• The definition of ‘marriage’ slides further down the slippery slope: A commentary by Timothy Dalrymple
 
• Man’s inhumanity to man in Syria and Sub-Saharan Africa | Religious leaders push back against the welfare state
 
• Read the letter from Christians for a Sustainable Economy.
 
• Taking a stand: A town clerk in New York State resigns rather than sign marriage licenses for homosexual couples
 
• The Screwtape Letters on stage: Joseph Slife interviews actor Max McLean
 
• Remembering John R.W. Stott
 
• Flashback: The Cane Ridge Campmeeting | The first atomic bomb | Nixon resigns | A forewarning of 9-11?

To give the debut program a listen, click the arrow.

Congratulations Joseph on a job well done! We'll be eagerly anticipating the programs to follow.

Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar

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SMI releases new FREE Gold Investing report

The recent market chaos and continued economic turmoil has been hard on investors' nerves, not to mention their portfolios. On top of that, the debt crisis has taken on a global flavor with additional credit “downgrades” of other nations a real possibility.

But amid all the chaos, gold continues its steady upward climb. Many investors are concerned about the declining value of the dollar and are considering gold as an investment for their portfolios.

SMI's founder and publisher Austin Pryor has written an easy-to-read guide that will help you understand our current fiscal crisis and describe how gold can help stabilize your portfolio in a world growing increasingly wary of paper currencies. The report will give you the facts to help you decide if buying gold is an appropriate move for you.

This 21-page special report is yours free! Simply go here to request your copy of Gold as an Investment: Will Precious Metals Continue to Shine? (in PDF).

You may also want to get one of our other free special reports, including Christian Investing, IRA's and 401(k)'s, or Understanding Inflation. To request them, visit our free special report hub.

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The debt-ceiling deal and your investments

The debt deal is finally a done deal. Despite the breathless reporting of recent weeks, the outcome was never likely to be a big deal for long-term investors.

Why? Our (now) former assistant editor Joseph Slife talked about that in a conversation yesterday with host Bob Crittenden on The Meeting House from Alabama's Faith Radio.

Click the arrow to listen (19 minutes).

In case you missed our earlier announcement, Joseph has left SMI after four years to go full time into radio, producing WORLD magazine's new weekly radio program, The World and Everything In It.

However, he'll still be writing for us on an occasional basis.

Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar

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Time is running out to get a free SMI Web Membership!

We've been celebrating Sound Mind Investing's 21st anniversary this month by offering a 30-day trial web membership — just for the asking. But when July gives way to August this Sunday at midnight, this special offer comes to an end. So don't delay. Sign up now!

Why try SMI? Here are a few reasons:

Performance History

Past performance is certainly no guarantee of future results, but you can learn a lot about an investing strategy by studying its past returns. Does it zoom ahead of the market's returns one year, only to fall way behind the next? Has it demonstrated superior performance in both bull markets and bear markets, or is it primarily suited to one type of market environment?

Our Upgrading Strategy has managed to beat the market in 11 of the past 12 years, an impressive accomplishment. As the graph below makes clear, SMI's Just-the-Basics and Fund Upgrading investing strategies have proven their ability to protect and grow our readers' portfolios.

From 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41.0%, while SMI's Upgrading Strategy gained 185.0%.

Powerful Tools

401(k) Fund Tracker

SMI's 401(k) fund tracker allows you to follow the specific funds offered in your retirement plan. Each month you can access a custom report that ranks the funds in your plan. With a single click you'll learn what upgrades should be made in your 401(k) or other retirement-plan portfolio. If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone is well worth the monthly cost of web membership!

Income Portfolio Tool

Investment history shows that you can't expect steady and consistent growth every single year. However, history also provides a great starting point when considering fund selections. Our Income Portfolio Tools provide historical return data from 1996 through 2010 for any combination of Vanguard and Fidelity income-oriented funds you enter. This allows you to quickly and easily see the risk and return impact of various changes to your hypothetical bond portfolio.

NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. We want you to be completely satisfied. If SMI doesn't live up to your expectations, simply cancel your web membership within the first 30 days and you'll never be charged. No explanation necessary.

You can sign up for this special offer only through this Sunday, July 31, so take advantage today!

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August issue of Sound Mind Investing now available!

The new August issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter is done! Print subscribers will get it in a few days — Web members can access all of the content right now.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can access a few August-issue articles at the links below. And, even better, if you sign up for our FREE 30-day trial Web Membership, you can get the entire August issue — plus access to every issue over the past three-plus years! (More about that in a moment.)

Here's a sampling of what's in the latest SMI:

• Have you ever noticed how the right tool can make all the difference in making a job go smoothly? Driving nails with a screwdriver is a sure recipe for frustration. Invest Your Savings According to When You'll Need It applies this principle to your savings, explaining what need each type of savings vehicle is designed to meet.
• Similarities abound between the stock market's performance in the first half of 2011 and the first half of 2010. Déjà Vu All Over Again details these similarities, but also points out a significant divergence could be ahead.
• These are worrisome times, but we have assurances from our God that He is ever near His children. Need Encouragement? Eyes Up! offers promises from Scripture that you can take to heart.

And there's more! In a subscribers-only story, guest writer Stephen Sorenson explains how to "Save a Bundle on Car Insurance," while still getting the coverage you need.

Exchange-traded funds offer several advantages over traditional mutual funds, so we ask (and answer) this question: "Is it Time to Get on the ETF Bandwagon?"

And in our August cover story, "Why Smart People Make Big Money Mistakes — and How to Correct Them," we look at how investors often misperceive risk, leading them to make decisions that are not in their best long-term interest.

So, how can you get all of the August issue if you're not yet a subscriber? It's simple. Just sign up for our 30-day free trial Web Membership!

Of course, as a Web Member, you'll get much more than just the August issue. As mentioned above, web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that will help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes a web membership worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 11 of the past 12 years. During the 12-year period from 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 185%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Members since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

Don't let another month go by without taking steps to improve your finances. This free-trial offer special is good for a limited time only, so don't delay! Sign up today for Sound Mind Investing!

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Tag(s): new issue

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It's SMI's anniversary — and you get a gift!

An anniversary gift — for you!

A Free 30-Day Trial Web Membership!

July marks the 21st anniversary of Sound Mind Investing! We're celebrating by offering a 30-day trial web membership — just for the asking. Why try SMI? Read on!

Performance History

Past performance is no guarantee of future results but you can learn a lot about an investing strategy by studying its past returns. Does it zoom ahead of the market's returns one year, only to fall way behind the next? Has it demonstrated superior performance in both bull markets and bear markets, or is it primarily suited to one type of market environment?

Our Upgrading Strategy has managed to beat the market in 11 of the past 12 years, an impressive accomplishment. As the graph below makes clear, SMI's Just-the-Basics and Fund Upgrading investing strategies have proven their ability to protect and grow our readers' portfolios.

From 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41.0%, while SMI's Upgrading Strategy gained 185.0%.

Powerful Tools

401(k) Fund Tracker

SMI's 401(k) fund tracker allows you to follow the specific funds offered in your retirement plan. Each month you can access a custom report that ranks the funds in your plan. With a single click you'll learn what upgrades should be made in your 401(k) or other retirement-plan portfolio. If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone is well worth the monthly cost of web membership!

Income Portfolio Tool

Investment history shows that you can't expect steady and consistent growth every single year. However, history also provides a great starting point when considering fund selections. Our Income Portfolio Tools provide historical return data from 1996 through 2010 for any combination of Vanguard and Fidelity income-oriented funds you enter. This allows you to quickly and easily see the risk and return impact of various changes to your hypothetical bond portfolio.

NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. We want you to be completely satisfied. If SMI doesn't live up to your expectations, simply cancel your web membership within the first 30 days and you'll never be charged. No explanation necessary. This special offer is good only for a limited time, take advantage today!
 

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Tag(s): anniversary, free web membership

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Live near Cincinnati? Then come see us next week!

The North American Christian Convention is being held next week in Cincinnati. Sound Mind Investing will have a booth in the Exhibit area, manned Tuesday-Thursday by Matthew Pryor (who blogs here on money-saving tips) and our marketing guru Kevin Woo.

SMI's executive editor Mark Biller and I will be driving up Thursday morning to give a workshop at 8:15, then will spend most of the day in and around the SMI booth. If you're within comfortable driving distance, we'd enjoy meeting you, shooting the breeze about investing, and answering any questions.

Registration is encouraged in order to underwrite the event, but it's optional. The NACC wants people to come, and doesn't want cost to be a barrier to that. According to the organizers: "No one should not come because of the $25 registration. Many come down, enjoy the exhibits, attend the main sessions, and drop something in the offering plate (as opposed to registering)."

You can learn more about the event and the featured speakers by going here.

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Tag(s): personal appearance

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July issue of Sound Mind Investing now available!

The new July issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — our 21st anniversary issue — is complete! Print subscribers will receive it in a few days — Web members can access all of the content right now.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber or web member, you can read several July-issue articles at the links below.

• Gratitude: Our anniversary issues always shine a spotlight on stewardship and giving — and that's just what SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor does in What is an Appropriate Response to Receiving Inexpressibly Wonderful and Never-Ending Blessings?
• Planning your spontaneity: Wouldn't it be exciting to have an extra $25, $50, or even $100 a month earmarked for the purpose of being able to bless others financially? Building Generosity Into Your Monthly Budget from guest author Jason Topp explains how.
• Beating the market, but how often? SMI's Fund Upgrading strategy has been able to outperform the market because its composition is quite different from that of the overall market. But this same factor can also cause Upgrading to lag the market in the short term. This month, we present new research that lends Perspective on Upgrading’s Short- and Long-Term Performance.

And there's more! In our subscribers-only cover story, "The Lavish Generosity of God," pastor and author John Piper focuses on a remarkable promise that Jesus made to his followers.

And in "Charity Watchdogs Help Givers Make Informed Decisions," we profile five web sites that help donors perform "due diligence" before giving to ministries or other nonprofit groups.

Also in the current issue: The uncertainty of future interest rate changes makes it difficult to know what the best savings strategies are. One strategy that helps eliminate some of the guesswork for savers is "Using a CD Ladder." We explain how to apply this strategy when rates are low, as they are now.

Plus, choosing a fund investment isn't only a question of how much a fund returns. It's also important to consider how much risk a fund takes to produce that return. "Understanding SMI’s 'Relative Risk' Scores for Mutual Funds" helps you do just that.

Want to access all the content from the July issue right away? Become an SMI Web Member today!

As a Web Member, you'll get far more than just the latest issue. Web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that can help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes a web membership worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 11 of the past 12 years. During the 12-year period from 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 185%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Members since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

Don't let another month go by without taking steps to improve your finances. Sign up today for Sound Mind Investing!

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Tag(s): new issue

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Inflation update — and a reminder about our FREE Inflation History special report

Does it seem as though lots of prices are going up? They are. Year-over-year price increases hit 3.6% as of the end of May, according to last week's report (PDF) from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As recently as November, that rate of increase was only 1.1%, as shown in the graph below.

Most people think of price increases as "inflation" — and that's true in a sense. But, strictly speaking, inflation is related to the supply of money available. When too much money begins to circulate (i.e., an imbalance is created between available money and available assets), the value of money is lessened.

Prices go up not because things are inherently more valuable than they were before, but because the money used to buy those things is worth less than before.

A sharp increase in the money supply over the past three years has led some economists and analysts to predict significant levels of inflation ahead — and that could have a big impact on your finances.

SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor, author of The Sound Mind Investing Handbook, has written an easy-to-read guide that explains the connection between excessive money creation and the rising cost of living — and we'd like you have a complimentary copy.

This 22-page report, Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar is available FREE to our SMI blog readers. Simply download a PDF copy from our Free Reports page — and check out our other free reports while you're there!

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Category(s): Inflation Watch, SMI General Announcements
Tag(s): Falling Dollar, Inflation, Inflation History, Risk of Inflation

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Chance to talk — Friday at noon (Central)

I'm going to be appearing on the Faith Radio Network's Connecting Faith program tomorrow. It's an hour long program, noon-1pm central time, normally hosted by Neil Stavem (though I think there's going to be a guest host tomorrow). We'll be taking calls from listeners and I'd love to hear from some SMI blog readers!

Here's a lineup of Faith Radio stations:

Faith 900 — Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
Faith 1090 — Waterloo, IA
Faith 1200 — Fargo, ND
Faith 1270 — Sioux Falls, SD
Faith 1190 — Madison, WI
Faith 90.5 — Duluth, MN

I've done brief interviews with Neil before, but tomorrow will be my first time doing a full program with them. As a result, I'm not sure exactly how caller questions work there. But I assume you don't need to live in one of these broadcast areas in order to call in with a question. Feel free to try if you like. (The worst that can happen is your phone explodes.) The number to call is 877-933-2484.

You can listen live via the Faith Radio link, or listen later from the program archive on their site. We may get the audio files to post here at some point down the road as well.

Hope to talk with some of you between noon-1pm tomorrow! If you do call in, make sure to identify yourself as being a reader of the SMI Weblog, so I know that while we're talking. Thanks!

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Sound Mind Investing on the radio

SMI's executive editor Mark Biller is a guest today on MoneyWise, the nationally syndicated radio program hosted by Howard Dayton and Steve Moore.

MoneyWise, which debuted in March, is produced by Compass — finances God's way, a ministry Howard launched in 2009 after leaving Crown Financial Ministries. The program is heard on more than 400 stations and outlets.

Mark, as you might guess, is answering listener questions about (wait for it) — investing. Actually, this is a two-parter. Mark was also on MoneyWise yesterday, but we didn't blog about it because the rest of us were taking the day off for Memorial Day!

Use the audio players below to listen (click the arrow for the program you want to hear). Mark joins Howard and Steve about six minutes into the first program.

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Tag(s): investing guidelines, radio

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June issue of Sound Mind Investing now available!

The new June issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter is finished! Print subscribers will receive it in a few days — Web members can access all of the content right now.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber or web member, you can read several June-issue articles at the links below.

• Sun, surf, sand…and stocks? Want to learn a few profound investing insights? SMI founder and publisher Austin explains that Everything He Needed to Know About Investing, He Learned at the Beach!
• Dollar-cost averaging: SMI's Just-the-Basics and Upgrading core strategies tell you which funds to invest in — but two questions remain: How often should you invest? And how much should you invest at a time? Take the Guesswork Out of When and How Much to Invest provides a simple answer.
• The head, not the tail: Paying yourself last — i.e., out of your leftovers — is the most common reason people fail to meet their savings goals. It's much more effective to Save by Paying Yourself First. Try these two paths to automated savings, and watch your saving habits turn around in no time.

And there's more! Our subscribers-only cover story, "Making the Most of Your College-Savings Program," will help you design a solid blueprint for meeting your college-saving goals.

Also in the current issue: Credit-card companies are ramping up efforts to find new customers by offering attractive sign-up perks, but cards are set up to ultimately benefit the issuer, not you. We have details in "Abundant Choices, Better Perks, Same Bottom Line."

Plus we tell you about one of SMI's Advanced Strategies that has generated average returns 20+% per year over the past two decades. No kidding!

Want to access all the content from the June issue right away — including our cover article on maximizing your college savings? Become an SMI Web Member today!

As a Web Member, you'll get far more than just the latest issue. Web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that can help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes a web membership worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 11 of the past 12 years. During the 12-year period from 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 185%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Members since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

Don't let another month go by without taking steps to improve your finances. Sign up today for Sound Mind Investing!

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Limited-time FREE offer

Renew Your Finances This Spring With a

Free 30-Day Trial Web Membership!


SMI's Upgrading Strategy has beaten the market in 11 of the past 12 years.

Performance History

Past performance is no guarantee of future results but you can learn a lot about an investing strategy by studying its past returns. Does it zoom ahead of the market's returns one year, only to fall way behind the next? Has it demonstrated superior performance in both bull markets and bear markets, or is it primarily suited to one type of market environment?

Upgrading Strategy has managed to beat the market in 11 of the past 12 years, an impressive accomplishment. As the graph below makes clear, SMI's Just-the-Basics and Fund Upgrading investing strategies have proven their ability to protect and grow our readers' portfolios.

From 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41.0%, while SMI's Upgrading Strategy gained 185.0%.

Powerful Tools

401(k) Fund Tracker

SMI's 401(k) fund tracker allows you to follow the specific funds offered in your retirement plan. Each month you can access a custom report that ranks the funds in your plan. With a single click you'll learn what upgrades should be made in your 401(k) or other retirement-plan portfolio. If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone is well worth the monthly cost of web membership!

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Investment history shows that you can't expect steady and consistent growth every single year. However, history also provides a great starting point when considering fund selections. Our Income Portfolio Tools provide historical return data from 1996 through 2010 for any combination of Vanguard and Fidelity income-oriented funds you enter. This allows you to quickly and easily see the risk and return impact of various changes to your hypothetical bond portfolio.

NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. We want you to be completely satisfied. If SMI doesn't live up to your expectations, simply cancel your web membership within the first 30 days and you'll never be charged. No explanation necessary. This special offer is good only for a limited time, take advantage today!
 

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May issue of Sound Mind Investing now available

The new May issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter is rolling off the press! Print subscribers will receive it in a few days — Web members can access all of the content right now.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber or Web member (why are you waiting?), you can read several May-issue articles at the links below.

• Investors can easily fall into the trap of blowing right past restraint en route to imagined future riches — often with unhappy results. Our executive editor Mark Biller has four tips that'll help you check that impulse in The Wisdom to Show Restraint.
• Investing decisions normally can't be made with mathematical certainty, so investing is more art than science. Still, there is one key rule to always keep in mind: In Doubt? Take The Safe Route.
• How did SMI's two core investing strategies perform in the three months of 2011? We have the numbers — and more — in our First Quarter Review.

And there's more! In our subscribers-only cover story, "On Bear Markets and Boundaries," SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor deals with a key question: How can a long-term investor gain the emotional fortitude to stick with their plans when the market starts to tank? The downturn of 2007-2009 saw many rattled investors toss their plans aside — and suffer hurt because of it.

Austin unveils a new "Bear Market Guidelines" strategy that can help you stick to your plan even during those times when the bear is on the prowl.

Also in the current issue, we look how — by filling out a simple form — you may be able bequeath hundreds of thousands of extra dollars to your children and maybe your grandchildren. The details are in "'Stretching' Your IRA Can Help Grow Long-Term Family Wealth."

Plus we help you run the numbers on the all important "Buy vs. Rent" housing decision.

Want to access all the content from the May issue right away — including our cover article on protecting yourself during bear markets? Become an SMI Web Member today!

As a Web Member, you'll get far more than just the latest issue. Web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that can help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 11 of the past 12 years. During the 12-year period from 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 185%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Members since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

Don't let another month go by without taking steps to improve your finances. Sign up today for Sound Mind Investing!

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Tag(s): bear market alert, get out of the market, new issue, stock-bond mix

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Ohio SMI Investment Club to hold 2nd meeting

In early March, 11 people got together near Dayton, Ohio, for the first ever meeting of an SMI Investment Club. It was (so we are told) a great encouragement and help to the attendees.

The group now plans to meet monthly, using the Sound Mind Investing resources (monthly newsletter, weblog, Sound Mind Investing Handbook, etc.) as tools for discussion around the topic of responsible and godly investing principles.

The next meeting of the Dayton-area SMI Club is next Thursday (April 7). Here are the details:

When? April 7, 8-9 p.m.

Where? Saxby's Coffee, 4425 Feedwire Rd., Centerville, Ohio (Exit 7 / I-675).

Directions: I-675 to Exit 7; go north on Wilmington Pike, then take a right on Feedwire Rd. Just past Tire Discounters is Saxby's Coffee in front of The Home Depot.

For questions, please e-mail Mr. Carey Northington of One Master Ministries at carey@onemaster.org — or call 937-477-6861. Otherwise, plan to join 'em on April 7!

Interested in starting an SMI Investment Club in your area? Please email customerservice@soundmindinvesting.com with "SMI Investment Club" in the subject and we'll help get the word out.

REMINDER: SMI Investment Clubs are not officially affiliated with Sound Mind Investing. Any such groups are administered solely by the local organizers. SMI is not an official sponsor and cannot be held responsible for the content of club meetings or outcomes.

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Springtime is here — so is the new April issue of SMI!

Yes, we know folks are still shoveling snow in some places, but springtime beginning to unfold. Flowers are blooming across the South, spring allergies are starting to flare up (ugh), and soon umpires will be ready to call, "Play ball!"

And with springtime comes the new April issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter. Print subscribers will receive it in a few days, while web subscribers can access all the content right now.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber (what are you waiting for?), you can still get a few April-issue articles at the links below.

• Many people think keeping up with an investing portfolio is too much work. But there's one strategy that has outdistanced most others while requiring only about 15 minutes of an investor's time once a year! The Loser's Game That Can Make You A Winner has the details.
• The road to healthy long-term returns can be rough at times, but there is a way to smooth it out. Our executive editor Mark Biller explains how in Combining Multiple Strategies — The Next Level Of Diversification.
• As prices rises, keeping your cost of living down is a challenge. In our April issue, we offer several actionable ideas for Cutting the Cost of Utilities.

In our subscribers-only cover story, "Gold Revisited," SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor gives an appraisal of the current state of the gold market. Readers who followed our 2009 advice to start investing a portion of their portfolio in gold have enjoyed handsome returns, but is it too late to get into precious metals now?

In "What You Can Learn from Your Tax Return," we explain how to mine the data on your tax forms to learn important things about the state of your overall financial health.

And our April issue includes a special Easter meditation from well-known author and Bible teacher John MacArthur: "The Glory of God on Display."

Want to access all the content from the April issue right away? Become an SMI Web Member!

Of course, as a Web Member, you'll get much more than just the latest issue. Web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that will help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds. (By the way, we'll soon be expanding the FPR to include even more funds!)

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 11 of the past 12 years. During the 12-year period from 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 185%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Members since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

Don't let another month go by without taking steps to improve your finances. Sign up today for Sound Mind Investing!

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"Welcome back!" — Some old friends return to radio

After a three-year absence from the airwaves, long-time SMI friends Howard Dayton and Steve Moore return to radio today with a new half-hour call-in program, MoneyWise.

Howard and Steve were behind the microphones from 2004-2008 on the Crown Financial Ministries program, Money Matters. For many years before that (1988-2003), Steve co-hosted Money Matters with the late Larry Burkett (and SMI's founder and publisher Austin Pryor was a regular guest).

MoneyWise is produced by Compass-Finances God's Way, a ministry Howard Dayton launched in 2009. "Compass' mission is to help people learn and apply [the Bible's] life-changing financial principles so they may experience a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Lord," according to the ministry's website.

With Crown Financial Ministries reducing its radio presence (Crown discontinued its daily half-hour program 10 days ago), Compass decided to move into that space.

As yet, Compass doesn't have a station listing on its site, so to find out if MoneyWise is airing where you are, you'll have to check with your local Christian station(s). The program should also be available online soon.

If you have a financial question for the MoneyWise team, here's the number to call: 1-800-525-7000. (By the way, we're told you can expect to hear SMI executive editor Mark Biller on MoneyWise from time to time — so, if you want to, call and say: "I have a question for when Mark Biller is on the program!")

Welcome back, guys. It's great to have you back on the air!

To listen to an excerpt from the inaugural broadcast, click the arrow on the player below (3:30).

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Investment Club using SMI materials starting in Dayton, Ohio

Today, we have something a bit different for our Personal Finance Friday post: a personal invitation.

SMI was contacted recently by a long time subscriber in Ohio who is interested in starting an investing discussion group or club with other Sound Mind Investing readers and friends.

While this is not an officially SMI-sponsored event, it may be quite helpful for those looking to delve further into SMI strategies and principles. (And if you're nowhere near Ohio, this may give you an idea for starting something similar in your part of the world.)

On Thursday evening, March 3 in Centerville, Ohio (just south of downtown Dayton) this group will meet for the first time to discuss what a group like this may look like.

The details:

When? Thursday, March 3, 8-9 p.m.

Where? Saxby's Coffee, 4425 Feedwire Rd., Centerville, Ohio (Exit 7 / I-675)

Directions: I-675 to Exit 7; go north; take the right on Feedwire Rd. — just past Tire Discounters is Saxby's Coffee (in front of The Home Depot).

The group is considering meeting once a month to use the Sound Mind Investing resources (monthly newsletter, weblog, SMI Handbook, etc.) as tools for discussion around the issues of responsible and godly investing principles.

The bottom line is they want this to be focused on Christ. If this is something that interests you, I'm sure they'd love for you to join them.

REMINDER: This group is not officially affiliated with Sound Mind Investing in any way. The group will be administered solely by the organizer of the event. SMI is not sponsoring the event, and cannot be held responsible for the content or the outcome of the meetings.

RSVP: Carey Northington of One Master Ministries is organizing the event. Please e-mail him at carey@onemaster.org no later than Monday, Feb. 28. Or call Carey at 937-477-6861.

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Just posted! March issue of Sound Mind Investing

The March 2011 issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter (print edition) is rolling off the press today — and we've just posted the web edition online. Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can access a few March-issue articles at the links below.

Here's a sampling:

• Sure, the stock market has made a remarkable comeback, but doesn't the idea that a new all-time market high might be just around the corner seem a bit too rosy? Not really. Consider the evidence presented in Is the Market Headed for a New All-Time High Soon?
  
• Deciding which funds to draw on first in retirement will depend on your answer this question: "Do I want to pass most of this money on to my family, or do I need to use it for my own retirement income?" Our article, Retirement Issues: Which Assets to Withdraw First, looks at these two very different scenarios and explains the best approach for each.
• The investment newsletter business is full of supposed seers ready to peer around the bend and report back to you regarding what the future holds. That’s not SMI's approach. We believe acknowledging one's limited vision is a timeless principle to follow in finances — and as a way of life. "A Man's Got to Know His Limitations" is SMI publisher Austin Pryor's editorial this month

In our subscribers'-only cover story, "God's Will for You Concerning Debt," Bible teacher Randy Alcorn explores what Scripture says about indebtedness. The March issue also includes "Debt and Marriage: Five Ideas for Helping Couples Make Progress" — an article that helps husbands and wives develop a strategy for dealing with debt.

And we offer practical tax-preparation help in "An Overview of Software and Online Options for Tax Season 2011."

Want to access all the content from the March issue right away? Become an SMI Web Member!

Of course, as a Web Member, you'll get much more than just the March issue. Web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that will help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 11 of the past 12 years. During the 12-year period from 1999-2010, U.S. stocks gained a total of 41% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 185%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Members since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

Don't let another month go by without taking steps to improve your finances. Sign up today for Sound Mind Investing!

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Tag(s): new issue

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SMI releases new FREE inflation report

Most people think of "inflation" simply as an economic condition when lots of prices go up. Well, that's part of the picture. But why do prices go up?

It's not because things are suddenly worth more. Instead, inflation is rooted in the supply of money available.

When too much money begins to circulate (i.e., an imbalance is created between available money and available assets), the value of money is lessened. So prices go up because the money used to make purchases is worth less than before.

All this economic theory can be a bit confusing, but it's important to understand, given that current conditions seem ripe for creating inflationary pressure that could affect your future finances.

To help you gain a clear understanding of the forces that cause inflation, SMI's founder and publisher Austin Pryor has written an easy-to-read guide that explains the connection between excessive money creation and the rising cost of living.

We're making this new 22-page special report available free! To request Inflation History: The Rise and Fall of the U.S. Dollar (in PDF), simply go here and let us know you want a copy.

You may also want to get our other free special reports, Seven Key Principles for Christian Investing and IRAs, 401(k)s and Social Security: A Retirement Planning Primer. Request them here.

Posted by Joseph at 11:55 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Category(s): Inflation Watch, SMI General Announcements
Tag(s): inflation, special report, what causes inflation

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Now online: February issue of the SMI newsletter!

The print edition of the February 2011 Sound Mind Investing newsletter is rolling off the press — and the Web edition is already available online for our Web Members.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can still access some of the content, including our February feature story!

Conventional investing wisdom says bonds are an important part of a well-diversified portfolio, yet few investors really understand what they are and how they operate. That can be dangerous in a period of rising interest rates such as we potentially face today. So read our feature article, The Bond Basics You Need to Know in 2011.

Also free this month is our latest "report card" on SMI's core investing strategies. The overall market gained 17.2% in 2010, but the final tallies show that both of SMI's core strategies did even better, as detailed in SMI Strategies Capitalize on a Strong Market in 2010.

We also have an update on the rookie-year performance of our Optional Inflation Hedges strategy (+25.2% overall).

And, in an annual tradition, SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor tells readers about his personal investing strategy for the 12 months ahead.

Rounding out our February issue (for subscribers only):

• "Should You Move Your Savings to an 'Enhanced Cash' ETF?";
• "Till Debt Do Us Part: Dealing with Debt in Your Marriage" by Russ Crosson, president of Ronald Blue and Co.; and
• "Retirement Issues: How Much Should You Withdraw Each Year From Your Nest Egg?"

In addition to encouraging articles plus step-by-step guidance on how to implement our performance-producing and time-tested investing strategies, SMI web members also have access to online tools such as our 401(k) Fund Tracker.

Not yet an SMI print subscriber or web member? Now is a great time to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain instant access to the February 2011 issue, plus back issues for the past three years!

Posted by Joseph at 4:15 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
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Tag(s): new issue

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A new year, a new issue of SMI — and a special offer

The January 2011 issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter (print edition) is rolling off the press! The online edition is already posted to the server — and even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can access a few January-issue articles at the links below.

And, even better, if you sign up for our 30-day free trial, you can get the entire January issue — plus access to every issue over the past three years! (More about that in a moment.)

Here's a sampling of what's in the first issue of 2011:

• Washington's tax deal will create a year-long 2% tax cut for most workers. But if you want even more in your paycheck, it may be that all you have to do is ask. Really. Find out how in Take Home Pay Will Climb in 2011 — Here's How To Boost It Even More.
• A recent study suggests momentum investors — such as those using SMI's successful Fund Upgrading strategy — are likely to see even brighter days are ahead. Find out more in Momentum is Dead. Long Live Momentum.
• A new fund managed by SMI Advisory Services is opening in January! The SMI Balanced Fund will target a roughly 60% stock, 40% bond allocation. Introducing the SMI Balanced Fund (SMILX) has all the details.

Our subscribers'-only cover story, by financial author Ron Blue, offers a five-step process that'll help you create clearly-defined, target-oriented goals for 2011 — the kind you're likely to actually stick with and achieve. His article is titled "The Goals You Need to Survive and Thrive."

The January issue also includes our annual guide to allocating your investments over the next 12 months, plus advice on how to conduct a financial self-checkup!

So, how can you get all of the January issue if you're not yet a subscriber? It's simple. Just sign up for our 30-day free trial Web Membership!

Of course, as a Web Member, you'll get much more than just the January issue. As mentioned above, web members have access to our three-year(!) searchable archive of articles from the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — articles that will help you make the most of financial resources.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 10 of the past 11 years (and it looks like the record will be 11 out of 12 years once the numbers from 2010 are tallied!). During the 11-year period from 1999-2009, U.S. stocks gained a total of 21.5% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 141.9%!

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Member since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. We want you to be completely satisfied. So if SMI doesn't live up to your expectations, just cancel your Web Membership within the first 30 days and you'll never be charged.

This special end-of-the-year offer is good only through this Friday, Dec. 31, so don't delay! Sign up today!

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Another Christian leader recommends SMI ... try it FREE!

This Christmas, we're offering a 30-day free trial Web Membership — just for the asking. But don't delay because the offer ends soon.

How reputable is SMI? Josh McDowell has just joined a list of others endorsing the work of Sound Mind Investing:

"As a communicator, I'm always on the lookout for resources that speak clearly and knowledgeably to the point at hand. My long-time friend Austin Pryor does exactly that in his financial newsletter and The Sound Mind Investing Handbook. They are thorough, easy-to-understand, and grounded in 30 years of successful investing experience. Both are valuable sources of practical guidance for anyone who wants their financial decisions to line up with biblical principles.

"Austin and Sound Mind Investing get my highest recommendation."

Josh McDowell
Josh McDowell Ministry
Author of More Than a Carpenter

"If you're looking for an attractive easy-to-follow investment guide written in plain English, look no further. Austin Pryor writes without vested interests in any specific plan or fund. This means greater candor and objectivity. I'm frankly skeptical of a lot of stuff coming out of the financial realm with its short-term 'for this life only' perspective. Austin is a man with a larger and better perspective. May every reader seek to make wise investments of money and time in God's kingdom, investments that will pay off not only in this life, but in the eternal life to come!"

Randy Alcorn
Director of Eternal Perspective Ministries
Author of Money, Possessions & Eternity

"I have had the privilege of knowing Austin Pryor since the beginning of my Christian life. There are few that I have as much respect for and confidence in than Austin. His counsel in the investment area has proven to be extraordinarily wise and discerning over a long time period. I can recommend this book without hesitation as a 'must read' for anyone interested in investing in very uncertain economic times. I consider it a privilege to be able to make this recommendation."

Ron Blue
Founding Partner of Ronald Blue & Co.

"When I wrote The Glorious Journey I had to include a quote by Austin Pryor in my book. Here is a man of great insight who has the ability to make difficult subjects easy to comprehend. It is obvious that Sound Mind Investing combines Biblical wisdom with very practical and understandable application. Anyone would profit from reading this book."

Dr. Charles F. Stanley
Senior Pastor / First Baptist Church of Atlanta

What do you get with an SMI Web Membership? Sign up today and you'll gain access to the online archive of both the Sound Mind Investing monthly newsletter and our daily Members' Weblog — that's hundreds of searchable articles on everything from investing strategies to biblical precepts of wise stewardship.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 10 of the past 11 years (and it looks like the record will be 11 out of 12 years once the numbers from 2010 are tallied!). During the 11-year period from 1999-2009, U.S. stocks gained a total of 21.5% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 141.9%!

The graph above puts Upgrading's performance in dollar terms. If you had invested $25,000 in the overall market at the beginning of 1999, it would have grown to $30,372 by the end of last year. But if the same money had been invested according to SMI's Upgrading strategy, it would have grown to $60,532. In other words, the Upgrading portfolio was worth almost twice as much after 11 years than a portfolio that simply earned the market's return!

Our simplified Just-the-Basics strategy has done pretty well, too, returning 39.3% over those 11 years (compared to just 21.5% for the overall market).

NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. We want you to be completely satisfied. So if SMI doesn't live up to your expectations, just cancel your Web Membership within the first 30 days and you'll never be charged.

This special end-of-the-year offer is good only through Dec. 31, so sign up today!

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FREE 30-day SMI Web Membership — try us out!

SMI wants to give you something for Christmas! Right now, we're offering a 30-day free trial Web Membership — just for the asking. But don't delay because the offer ends Dec. 31.

What do you get with an SMI Web Membership? Sign up today and you'll gain access to the online archive of both the Sound Mind Investing monthly newsletter and our daily Members' Weblog — that's hundreds of searchable articles on everything from investing strategies to biblical precepts of wise stewardship.

Plus you'll get:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) that generates a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds.

You'll also gain access to our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, that's beaten the overall market in 10 of the past 11 years (and it looks like the record will be 11 out of 12 years once the numbers from 2010 are tallied!). During the 11-year period from 1999-2009, U.S. stocks gained a total of 21.5% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, SMI's Upgrading strategy gained 141.9%!

The graph above puts Upgrading's performance in dollar terms. If you had invested $25,000 in the overall market at the beginning of 1999, it would have grown to $30,372 by the end of last year. But if the same money had been invested according to SMI's Upgrading strategy, it would have grown to $60,532. In other words, the Upgrading portfolio was worth almost twice as much after 11 years than a portfolio that simply earned the market's return!

Our simplified Just-the-Basics strategy has done pretty well, too, returning 39.3% over those 11 years (compared to just 21.5% for the overall market).

Still not sure? Consider what some of our readers have told us:

SMI was an answer to prayer! We've developed a workable budget, paid off debt, started a contingency fund, opened college savings accounts, and went from negative returns in our retirement accounts to positive returns — immediately. Best of all, we get our financial advice from a source that truly puts God first. Cate Brizzell, NY Subscriber since 2000
We so appreciate SMI! Thank you for all that you do. You are, without a doubt, the best "one stop" resource for anyone's total financial needs. Bobby and Carla Sullivan, KY Web Member since 2005
The Sound Mind Investing newsletter has given me access to a proven investing method that is simple to follow and will return the cost of my annual subscription many times over. The Sound Mind Investing website and message board are a great place to ask investing questions and get great advice from other subscribers. Craig Weeks, TX Web Member since 2005

These are just a few of the thousands of readers who benefit day after day from the information provided by Sound Mind Investing. (More testimonials here.)

NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. We want you to be completely satisfied. So if SMI doesn't live up to your expectations, just cancel your Web Membership within the first 30 days and you'll never be charged.

This special end-of-the-year offer is good only through Dec. 31, so sign up today!

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Now available: December issue of SMI!

The December 2010 edition of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter is rolling off the press — and, of course, it's already available online to our web members. Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can still access a few goodies (use the links below).

Want higher returns with less risk? Sure you do. That's the winning combination proper diversification offers. We have details in Diversifying Your Stock Investments.

Also free to non-subscribers this month: an article about a great way to make Christmas a little merrier. Read This Christmas, Involve Your Children in Charitable Giving, by guest writer Matt Alexander.

And if you want performance info about the Sound Mind Investing Fund, a mutual fund founded in 2005 that's separate from our newsletter but based on SMI's Upgrading strategy, you can find details in Five Years In, Sound Mind Investing Fund Looks Solid.

Rounding out our December issue:

• "Do You Need Disability Insurance?" by insurance expert Mike Cave, and
• "Are Free Checking Accounts an Endangered Species?"

Plus there's our cover story:

• "Your 10 Most Important Financial Moves for 2011."

In addition to encouraging articles and step-by-step guidance on how to implement our performance-producing and time-tested investing strategies, SMI web members also gain access to online tools such as our 401(k) Fund Tracker.

Not yet an SMI print subscriber or web member? Now, as a new year approaches, is a great time to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain instant access to the December 2010 issue, plus back issues for the past three years!

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It's here! The November issue of Sound Mind Investing

Wow. Where has the year gone? The November 2010 edition of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter is rolling off the press and will be in the mail in a few hours. And, of course, the online edition is already "live" on the web.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can still access a few goodies (just use the links below).

Risk-averse investors, even more than seeing large gains, want to eliminate large losses. In reviewing the past eight decades of market history, SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor has identified a "sweet spot" for such investors.

You Must Be Present to Win explains how the right allocation can help keep you in the market — a prerequisite to successful long-term results. (This approach might be the ticket to giving your nerves a rest!)

Also free this month: Guest columnist Craig Ford looks at Five Spiritually Unhealthy Motives for Building up Savings — plus two sound and biblical motives for saving.

And executive editor Mark Biller reports on the latest results from SMI's two core strategies: Fund Upgrading and Just-the-Basics. Both outperformed the overall market in the third quarter — and are outperforming year-to-date as well!

Rounding out our November issue are these subscriber-only articles:

• "This Just Isn't Working for Me" (on overcoming 10 common obstacles to successful budgeting);
• "Competition Continues to Cut Investors' Costs" (on how marketplace innovation is giving investors more options at lower prices);
• "Preparing For a 2011 Tax Bite" (a look at various tax provisions that are up in the air right now — and how they might affect your pocketbook in the new year);
• And our November cover story, "In the Father's Vineyard," offers an insightful look at what Scripture teaches about a life of fruitfulness in the Kingdom.

In addition to the kind of encouraging and informative articles described above, the Sound Mind Investing newsletter offers guidance on how to implement our performance-producing and time-tested investing strategies. Plus SMI web members gain access to online tools such as our 401(k) Fund Tracker.

Not yet an SMI print subscriber or web member? Today's a great day to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain instant access to the November 2010 issue, plus back issues all the way back to January 2007!

What are you waiting for?

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New season, new issue of SMI

As summer officially gives way to fall, we're rolling out the October 2010 edition of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter. It's now live online — and, even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can still access our October cover story and a few other goodies (just use the links below).

The cover story focuses on the always appealing idea of market timing: be invested when the market is rising; be out of the market when it is falling. Appealing, yes, but extremely difficult to pull off consistently — and the process is emotionally gut-wrenching.

In The Realities of Market Timing, SMI founder and publisher Austin Pryor discusses the ins and outs of timing — and explains why avoiding a timing approach is likely to be more profitable for most investors over the long haul.

Also free this month: Finding the Right Prescription: How to Save on Medications — with tips on comparison shopping for prescription medicines.

And in Don't Confuse "Yield" with "Total Return," we explain why two savings vehicles can have the same yield, yet end up with returns that are quite different.

Rounding out our October issue are these subscriber-only articles:

• "Are Stocks A Bargain Right Now?" (on why the experts don't agree);
• "The Impact of the Election Cycle on Annual Seasonality" (history shows there's likely to be good news for investors in the months ahead);
• "Health Savings Accounts: A Primer" (what you need to know if your employer is offering HSA arrangement starting in 2011).

In addition to the kind of encouraging and informative articles described above, the SMI newsletter offers guidance on how to implement our performance-producing and time-tested investing strategies. Plus SMI web members gain access to online tools such as our 401(k) Fund Tracker.

Not yet an SMI print subscriber or web member? Today's a great day to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain instant access to the October 2010 issue, plus back issues all the way back to January 2007.

What are you waiting for?

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Uncertain times, a certain God

Ever struggle with trusting God in your finances? Join the club.

When economy seems to be teetering and the stock market is a roller coaster, trusting God for your financial future (and, yes, your financial present) can be tough.

In a conversation Monday on Minnesota-based Faith Radio, SMI's Assistant Editor Joseph Slife talked with host Neil Stavem about being confident in our "certain God" in an uncertain world.

The Faith Radio Network, a ministry of Northwestern College, includes stations in Minneapolis/Saint Paul and Duluth, Minn.; Madison, Wis.; Fargo, N.D; and Sioux Falls, S.D.

You can listen to the 14-minute conversation below — or right click here (and "save link as") to download an mp3.

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Now available: September issue of SMI!

The September 2010 edition of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter is rolling off the press today — and, of course, it's already available online to our web members.

Even if you're not yet an SMI subscriber, you can still access a few goodies (just use the links below).

Did you know that even during the stock market's "worst of times," perseverance still rewarded the steadfast? SMI's founder and publisher Austin Pryor has details in Facing Your Fears: What If We Have a Market Like We Had During the Great Depression?

Also free to non-subscribers is this month is an article on how you're likely to boost your returns if you invest at a particular time of the month. Read Profiting from Monthly "Seasonality" in the Stock Market.

And our friends at Crown Financial Ministries explain how a strong sense of career direction can help young people avoid costly trial and error when pursuing an education. Find out more in Guiding Your Children Toward Their Career Calling.

Rounding out our September issue are these subscriber-only articles:

• "Mortgage-Backed Bond Funds: Higher Yields for Long-Term Savers";
• "Preferential Treatment: Preferred Stocks Outpace Bond Yields";
• "New Law Limits Credit Card Pitches to Students"; and
• "What Is Your Most Valuable Possession?" — a thought-provoking piece on the value of time.

Our September cover story — by William Bernstein, author of The Investor's Manifesto — offers advice on "Fine-Tuning the Risk in Your IRA, 401(k), and Other Retirement Accounts."

In addition to encouraging articles and step-by-step guidance on how to implement our performance-producing and time-tested investing strategies, SMI web members also gain access to terrific online tools such as our 401(k) Fund Tracker.

Not yet an SMI print subscriber or web member? Today's a great day to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain instant access to the September 2010 issue, plus back issues for the past three years!

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On the radio

On Monday I joined host Bob Crittenden on The Meeting House, produced by Alabama's Faith Radio.

Bob and I chatted about SMI's 20th anniversary — and about our August-issue Level 1 article on credit scores (subscribers' link).

You can listen to the 15-minute segment below — or, if you prefer, right click (and "save link as") here to download an mp3.

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Winner #20 in SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Jeff Hudson of Evansville, Indiana. Jeff was the final winner in our refer-a-friend contest — he won a one-year FREE SMI web membership.

You can still get FREE Sound Mind Investing. How? For every friend you refer who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations, Jeff, on winning and thanks to EVERYONE who entered and referred folks to Sound Mind Investing. Word of mouth continues to be one of our biggest sources of new readership, so we are very grateful to you for sharing what we do here at Sound Mind Investing with your friends and family.

We hope you have enjoyed celebrating our 20th Anniversary with us. We wouldn't be here without you!

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FREE 30-Day Trial Web Membership

July marks SMI's 20th anniversary! Don't worry. We're not expecting a gift. Instead we have one for you! Right now, we're offering a 30-day free trial web membership — just for the asking... but the offer ends on July 31st!

Why try SMI? Well, how about the fact that our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, has beaten the overall market in 10 of the past 11 years! And our simplified Just-the-Basics strategy has done pretty well, too!

During the 11-year period from 1999-2009, U.S. stocks gained a total of 21.5% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, Just-the-Basics returned 39.3% while Upgrading gained 141.9%.

Let's put Upgrading's performance in dollar terms. If you had invested $25,000 in the overall market at the beginning of 1999, it would have grown to $30,372. But if the same money had been invested according to SMI's Upgrading strategy, it would have grown to $60,532 — an end result almost twice that earned from investing in the overall market!

What else do you get with an SMI Web Membership?

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds — is updated online every month.

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) can generate a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)
• Our Bear Alert Indicator reliably distinguishes between a selloff that's within the bounds of normal bull-market activity and one that's likely to turn into a full-fledged bear market. (It's been accurate 10 out of the 11 times it has sounded.)

This special anniversary offer is only good through July 31st, so sign up today!

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Winner #19 in SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Geneva Williams of Opelika, Alabama. Geneva is today's winners in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — she will receive a FREE one-year SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter a bunch).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations Geneva and thanks again for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #18 in SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Dan Kilde of Chandler, Arizona. Dan is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations, Dan, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #17 in SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Chris Bajwa of Bethesda, Maryland. Chris is today's winners in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he will receive a FREE one-year SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter a bunch).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations Chris and thanks again for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #16 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Jim Mcgurl of Poughkeepsie, New York. Jim is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations, Jim, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Winners #12, #13, #14, and #15 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Eric Thomsen of Beatrice, Nebraska, J P Welch of Richmond, Virginia, James Yorio of Martinez, Georgia, and Brenda Anderson of Cape Elizabeth, Maine. They are today's winners in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — they will receive a FREE one-year SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations to today's winners, and thanks again for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Just posted: August issue of Sound Mind Investing!

No matter what may be going on in stock market on any given day, a long-term financial plan that focuses on eliminating debt, building savings, and diversifying one's investments will eventually pay off!

The new August issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — just posted online — will encourage you in those pursuits.

And, of course, we've included a little bit of free-access content for those who aren't yet subscribers.

For example: you can read this article on how to juice the yields of any savings you might not need for a least a couple of years (e.g., money set aside for a major purchase or an anniversary trip).

Also in the August issue:

• How — and where — to get a your credit score (lenders, landlords, and employers may be looking your score, so you need to know what it is);
• Two investing techniques that can help you buy at better prices and protect your profits;
• A wrap-up of recent performance for our popular Fund Upgrading strategy.

Our August cover story focuses on this question: "How should you respond to what seems be the beginnings of a bear market?" We walk you through an objective process that will help you make a "sound mind" decision about your investing strategy.

Not yet an SMI print subscriber or web member? Check us out free for 30 days online!

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Tag(s): bear market alert, new issue

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Winner #11 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Julia Santy of San Luis Obispo, California. Julia is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — she gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations, Julia, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #10 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Stephen Mccormick of Clarksville, Tennessee. Stephen is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations, Stephen, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #9 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Bill Feath of Plano, Texas. Bill is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

Furthermore, even if you don't win one of the 20 free memberships being given away, you can still benefit from these referrals. For each friend who becomes a subscriber or web member and lists you as their referrer, you'll get two free months of SMI added to your active print subscription or web membership! (Offer only applies to current SMI web members or print subscribers.) And there's no limit to the number of free months you can get this way.

So congratulations, Bill, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at
Sound Mind Investing.

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Thinking long-term when the market is wild

"So how should one manage money in an era of unpredictability and volatility?" asks a story on the front page of today's "Money" section in USA Today.

The Dow Jones industrials' 261-point plunge Friday sparked by a sharp drop in consumer sentiment in July highlights that gloominess persists....

In recent weeks, a spate of economic reports have come in weaker than expected, fueling double-dip fears. In July, readings on manufacturing, retail sales, factory orders, employment, auto and home sales came in light. Last Wednesday, minutes of the Federal Reserve's June meeting indicated it expects growth to slow in the second half, prompting the central bank to lower its 2010 growth outlook to as low as 3%.

In the words of former Fed chief Alan Greenspan, the economy has hit an "invisible wall."

Whew! How should investors respond?

On a recent Faith Meeting House program on Alabama's Faith Radio, SMI assistant editor Joseph Slife (right) talked with host Bob Crittenden about the maintaining a long-term perspective when the short-term is unsettling.

Use the audio player below to listen (16 min.) — or download an mp3 (Windows users: right click, then "save link as").

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Winners #6, #7 and #8 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Joe and Ruthie Scheidel of Berwyn, Pennsylvania, Dave Neufeld of Olathe, Kansas, and Larry Fryling of Hayward, California. They are all winners in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest and will get a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20(!) one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!)

And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times — so please do!).

So again, congratulations to Joe and Ruthie, Dave, and Larry. Thanks for spreading the word about Sound Mind Investing!

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Winner #5 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Carolyn Fasold of Monument, Colorado. Carolyn is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — she gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

So congratulations, Carolyn, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #4 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to William Beichley of Westminster, Colorado. William is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

So congratulations, William, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #3 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Sue Rapp of Springfield, Ohio! Sue is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — she gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

So congratulations, Sue, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #2 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Steve Sarrett of Denison, Texas! Steve is today's winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

So congratulations, Steve, on winning, and thanks for spreading the word of what we do here at Sound Mind Investing.

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Winner #1 of SMI's 20th Anniversary Referral Contest

Congratulations to Dale Wayman of Lynden, Washington! Dale is the first winner in our 20th Anniversary Referral Contest — he gets a one-year FREE SMI web membership!

Not familiar with the contest? We're giving away 20 (well, now 19) one-year web memberships. Simply fill out the referral form and we'll send each person you recommend a single email with information about SMI.

For each friend you recommend, you'll be entered into a drawing for a FREE One-Year Web Membership — a $119 value! (If you're already a Web member, we'll extend your Web membership 12 additional months if you win!) And while you can win only once, there's no limit to the number of referrals/entries you send us (in other words, you can enter lots of times).

So thanks, Dale, for helping spread the word of what we do here. And congrats again on winning a free year of Sound Mind Investing!

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Bear Alert triggered

At Sound Mind Investing, we don't try to predict anything or time the market ("Put your money in now!" "Take your money out now!). Instead, we take a long-term, "steady plodding" (Proverbs 21:5) approach to investing.

Still, we realize some readers are helped by having a reliable indicator of the overall market trend so they can make portfolio adjustments consistent with their long-term plan.

Several years ago, we developed the Bear Alert Indicator, a tool that helps our readers know the difference between a "routine" market correction and what is likely to be a deeper downturn.

The Alert triggered last Friday for the first time since January 2008. Yes, the market has rallied since then, but that's not unusual. Often the bear takes awhile to manifest fully.

SMI's Bear Alert isn't a perfect indicator (no market indicator is perfect). But the methodology of the Bear Alert has been accurate at spotting a bear market 10 out of the last 11 times it has sounded.

The Bear Alert is just one of many value-added benefits available to you if you become an SMI web member — and right now, as we celebrate SMI's 20th Anniversary, you can try a web membership for 30 days free!

Others benefits of being an SMI web member include:

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) — it can generate a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when.
• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds (updated online every month).
• Access to our market-beating investing strategy called Upgrading — it's beaten the overall market in 10 of the past 11 years!

This special anniversary offer is good only during July, so don't procrastinate. Take advantage today!

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20th Anniversary special: Free 30-day trial Web Membership!

July marks SMI's 20th anniversary! Don't worry. We're not expecting a gift. Instead we have one for you! Right now, we're offering a 30-day free trial web membership — just for the asking.

Why try SMI? Well, how about the fact that our core investing strategy, Fund Upgrading, has beaten the overall market in 10 of the past 11 years! And our simplified Just-the-Basics strategy has done pretty well, too!

During the 11-year period from 1999-2009, U.S. stocks gained a total of 21.5% (as measured by the Wilshire 5000). During that same time, Just-the-Basics returned 39.3% while Upgrading gained 141.9%.

Let's put Upgrading's performance in dollar terms. If you had invested $25,000 in the overall market at the beginning of 1999, it would have grown to $30,372. But if the same money had been invested according to SMI's Upgrading strategy, it would have grown to $60,532 — an end result almost twice that earned from investing in the overall market!

What else do you get with an SMI Web Membership?

• Our Fund Performance Rankings report — the latest data on the performance of more than 1,500 mutual funds — is updated online every month.

• SMI's Retirement Plan Fund Tracker (shown at right) can generate a custom report that tracks the specific funds available in your retirement plan, so you can know which funds to choose and when. (If you have money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, this feature alone makes our 30-day trial well worth checking out!)
• Our Bear Alert Indicator reliably distinguishes between a selloff that's within the bounds of normal bull-market activity and one that's likely to turn into a full-fledged bear market. (It's been accurate 10 out of the 11 times it has sounded.)

This special anniversary offer is good only during the month of July, so take advantage today!

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Happy Anniversary to...us!

Time for a stroll down memory lane: twenty years ago Boris Yeltsin was elected president of the Russian Federation, East and West Germany re-united, and Iraq invaded Kuwait. In technology, Microsoft rolled out Windows 3.0 and a guy named Tim Berners-Lee developed something call the World Wide Web. On Wall Street, broker Drexel Burnham Lambert filed for bankruptcy, while the Dow Jones industrial average hit a record high of 2,870.

And in Louisville, Ky., the first issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter rolled off the press.

Much has changed during the past two decades, but one thing has stayed constant: our motivation for doing what we do! SMI's raison d'etre has always been to encourage and enable our readers to become generous givers.

In our just-released 20th anniversary issue, founder and publisher Austin Pryor revisits SMI's abiding heartbeat in a piece entitled, Feeling the Father's Pleasure. It's available here — free to subscribers and not-yet subscribers alike!

Also free this month, guest writer Shannon Plate offers advice on close-to-home options that can help you trim your entertainment-related spending, and Austin explains how not all price/earnings ratios are created equal.

Rounding out our July articles (for subscribers):

• We tell you how to avoid getting locked into a below-market rate in a long-term CD;
• Executive Editor Mark Biller explains why competing threats to the economy are keeping each other in check — for now; and
• Pastor and author John Piper answers this question: Should an expectation of eternal rewards be a motivation for becoming a generous giver?

Not yet an SMI subscriber or web member? Today's a great day to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain full access to the July issue — plus step-by-step details on how to implement our time-tested investing strategies.

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June (issue of SMI) is bustin' out all over

No matter what may be going on in stock market on any given day, a personal financial plan that focuses on eliminating debt, building savings, and investing for the long-term will eventually pay off!

The new June issue of the Sound Mind Investing newsletter — just posted online — will encourage you in those pursuits! And, of course, we've included some free-access content for those who aren't yet subscribers.

In his monthly editorial, SMI founder Austin Pryor explains that the world's financial problems — e.g., Greek debt, falling currencies, market volatility — are not the biggest threat to most people's financial security. The biggest threat is their own decision-making process. (We can help!)

Also in the June issue:

• Details about a practical, time-tested technique that will help you achieve your savings goals;
• Eye-opening research that reveals seven common qualities among people who successfully build wealth; and,
• Think you can't get into financial trouble if you use a debit card rather than a credit card? Mary Hunt explains why you need to think again.

Not yet an SMI subscriber or web member? Today's a great day to sign up! If you become a web member, you'll gain instant access to all of the helpful and encouraging content in the just-released June issue!

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Hot off the server: The May issue of Sound Mind Investing

The latest issue of Sound Mind Investing has just been posted — and, of course, we've included some free-access content for folks who aren't yet subscribers. Check out On the Outside Looking In? — Austin Pryor's thoughts on what do to if you bailed out during the fear-filled days of the bear market and have missed the remarkable stock market recovery of the past year a so.

Also in the May issue:

• Why you may want to think twice before moving your money-market savings to a bond fund in an attempt to earn a higher yield;
• Advice on planning a wonderful and affordable wedding; and
• An excerpt from the classic book, Your Work Matters to God.

Not an SMI web member yet? Today's a great day to join and instantly gain access to all of the helpful and encouraging content in the new May issue!

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January issue of SMI just released!

The January 2010 issue of the SMI newsletter has just been posted to the website.

SMI web members following our Fund Upgrading strategy are being advised to make a pair of mutual fund changes this month.

Each January, we unveil new recommended stock and bond allocations for the new year. This year we have a couple of significant changes recommended for readers.

We are also introducing some new features with this month's issue. This month's editorial explains the new optional inflation hedges we've created to be used as a supplement to our core investing strategies.

We also are unveiling a new Diversification Calculator/Tool to help web members determine the optimal allocation for their portfolio.

As always, there's also a host of other timely and informative content. For example, we explain this month why 2010 offers a unique opportunity to convert to a Roth IRA, a move that could potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars in taxes over your lifetime. This and much more is available in the January issue.

Not a web member yet? Today's a great day to join and instantly gain access to all of the new January content and mutual fund changes!

PS - There's still time to give the gift of SMI, and send a gift via Prison Fellowship's Angel Tree program at the same time! Click here for details.

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Christmas comes early — 35% discount on The SMI Handbook

With over 100,000 copies in circulation and now in its 5th edition, the Sound Mind Investing Handbook is a masterpiece on simplifying investing and personal finances. But rather than paying the retail price of $24.99, we're happy to announce a 35% discount offer. You'll pay just $16.24 + $3.50 for s/h.

To aid you in your Christmas preparations, we've also just added a new Gift Book Order Form. Now you can easily order right from your computer. We'll even include a personal gift message from you to the recipient when it is sent.

Books are shipped on the next business day (if not sooner), so you still have time to send a gift copy of the book Ron Blue calls a "must read for anyone interested in investing in very uncertain economic times," Randy Alcorn calls an "attractive easy-to-follow investment guide written in plain English" and Amazon.com shows as having a perfect 5-Star rating!

We trust that your loved ones (or maybe even yourself!) would benefit from receiving The Sound Mind Investing Handbook. And now ordering gift books is easier than ever.

PS - SMI Web Members get an additional 5% off the already discounted price. Memberships are only $8.95 per month, and you can cancel anytime — no long-term commitments. Try it today!

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Special Christmas offer from SMI doubles your giving!

Each year, SMI offers some sort of Christmas promotion. This year, however, our offer is unlike any we’ve done before. This year we want to tap into the real meaning of the season and focus on giving. In fact, this year we’re going to give you a special opportunity to double your giving!

This Christmas, when you give the gift of Sound Mind Investing, SMI will turn around and give to a child in need through Prison Fellowship's Angel Tree ministry. For those who may not be familiar with Angel Tree, it’s a unique opportunity to help moms and dads who are in prison connect with their children. Angel Tree provides gifts and the gospel to children on behalf of parents, including a personal message from mom or dad.

For every SMI web membership or print subscription you give between now and Christmas Day, Sound Mind Investing will sponsor a child. And there is no limit to the number of children we'll sponsor.

It’s not often you have the opportunity to double your investment — guaranteed. But this is one such opportunity. Give the gift of SMI to a friend or loved one, and at the same time give a gift to child who may not get one otherwise this year.

Take advantage of this rare opportunity and give the gift of Sound Mind Investing this Christmas. Your loved one, and someone else’s little loved one, will be happy you did!

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December issue of SMI just released

The December 2009 issue of the SMI newsletter has just been posted to the website.

SMI web members following our Fund Upgrading strategy are advised of two new fund changes to make this month.

This month, we've assembled a collection of great ideas to help you make significant financial (and spiritual) progress over the next 12 months. Your 10 Most Important Financial Moves for 2010 is designed to help you identify the most pressing financial priorities for you in the year to come. By identifying, prioritizing, and then checking these items off one by one as they are accomplished, you can make 2010 a year of great financial progress.

Other topics include investing in real estate, a free gift offer for SMI web members, how to make this a no-debt Christmas, our end-of-year tax guide, and much more.

Not a web member yet? Today's a great day to join and instantly gain access to all of the new December content and mutual fund changes!

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November issue of SMI now available

The November 2009 issue of the SMI newsletter was posted to the website earlier this week. There's some great content in it, for SMI web members and visitors alike.

Visitors may be interested in this month's cover article, “Trusting God to Work Things Together for Good.” This testimony from Austin details his journey of learning to trust God through a long period in the financial wilderness. This is an encouraging reminder that no matter what you may be facing, our loving and faithful Lord is worthy of all your confidence!

Also available for visitors is our Third Quarter Report Card, detailing the performance of SMI's main investment strategies. The overall market has done well of late, but our strategies have done even better!

Of course, there's even more great content available for SMI web members, including 4 Common Financial Mistakes Parents Make (and how to avoid them), Why Investing in Foreign Funds Can Help You Benefit From a Falling Dollar, How Health Care Reform Will Impact You, and more.

Become a member today to enjoy instant access to all these articles, as well as SMI's recommended fund list.

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SMI staffer on Crown's MoneyLife program

Our October cover article, "Is a College Education Still Worth the Investment?," is the subject of today's MoneyLife radio program from Crown Financial Ministries.

Host Chuck Bentley interviews SMI writer/researcher Joseph Slife, who wrote the article. Listen below.

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October issue of SMI just released

The October 2009 issue of the SMI newsletter has just been posted to the website.

This month, we continue our exploration of the inflation/deflation quandary and weigh in with some important potential consequences for bond investors. We also delve into the details of holding gold or other precious metals in an IRA account.

With students of all ages now back in school, we also turn our attention this month to the college issue — a financial challenge of increasing proportions. Our cover article examines whether a college education is still worth the investment. We also take a look at the new Income-Based Repayment program for graduates trying to figure out the best way to repay their student loan debt.

All of this, and much more, is available now for SMI web members.

Becoming a member is also the only way to gain access to SMI's Fund Upgrading recommendations...the same strategy that has helped SMI readers earn 7.4% per year over the past 10 years (thru 8/31/09) during a decade when the stock market overall has returned just 0.3% per year.

So what are you waiting for? Become an SMI web member today!

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September issue of SMI just released

The September 2009 issue of the SMI newsletter has just been posted to the website.

Readers following our Fund Upgrading strategy were advised of four fund changes to make this month. Upgrading is now up over 50% from the March 9 lows.

This month, Austin concludes his two-part feature on potential future dollar weakness by laying out a road map for investing in gold. SMI web members can check out all the details in this month's cover article.

Other topics include investing in leveraged ETFs, EE Bonds, how to choose the right Medicare plan coverage, and much more.

Not a web member yet? Today's a great day to join and instantly gain access to all of the new September content and mutual fund changes!

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SMI swims in the social media waters

In case you're new or just didn't see previous announcements, I wanted to let you know that Sound Mind Investing has been splashing around in the waters of social media.

We first dipped our toes in last October when we launched our official SMI Facebook page.

Then in early April, we dove into "micro-blogging" with Twitter. I even "tweeted live" from Tax Protest Rallies on April 15th and again on July 4th. We now have nearly 800 followers on Twitter and the waves are building. Again, if you're not familiar with Twitter, these posts will give you a brief overview.

We have also gotten wet in sites like StumbleUpon, where you can share articles with people who have similar interests as your own (side note: StumbleUpon is now SMI's second leading referral site, Google being number one). Not to mention sites like Digg or Tip'd where you can vote on articles to help increase their prominence and consequently, their popularity.

Many of you may have found Sound Mind Investing through one of these sources. If so, welcome! If you use any of these sites/services, feel free to stop by and say hello, and naturally, spread the word about SMI to anyone you know who might be interested.

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August issue now available

The August 2009 issue of the newsletter has just been posted to the website.

Readers following our Fund Upgrading strategy are advised that there are no fund changes to make this month.

We're adjusting our long-term posture regarding gold investing this month. Web members can check out all the details in this month's cover article.

Not a web member yet? Today's a great day to join and instantly gain access to all of the new August content!

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July issue now available

The July 2009 issue of the newsletter has just been posted to the website.

Readers following our Fund Upgrading strategy are advised that five funds are being replaced this month. SMI web members can read the write-ups of the new funds we're adding here.

Want to see which funds SMI is currently recommending? Become a Web Member today to instantly gain access to all of the new July content!

Posted by Mark at 10:07 AM | Comments (0)
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June issue now available

The June 2009 issue of the newsletter has just been posted to the website.

Readers following our Fund Upgrading strategy are advised that four funds are being replaced this month.

SMI Web Members can read the write-ups of the new funds we're adding here.

Enjoy!

Posted by Mark at 3:42 PM | Comments (0)
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May issue now available

The May 2009 issue of the newsletter has just been posted to the website.

Readers following our Fund Upgrading strategy are advised that two fund changes are being made this month.

Web Members can read the write-ups of the new funds we're adding here.

Posted by Mark at 2:22 PM | Comments (0)
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SMI now on Twitter!

SMI is doing a trial run on Twitter under the username SoundMindInvest.

What is Twitter? Simply put, it's a free social messaging utility for staying connected in real-time. The updates (known as "tweets") are limited to 140 characters, but there is no limit to the number of tweets you can make, nor the number of followers you can have.

Why is SMI trying Twitter? For starters, we think it's important to be familiar with the popular social media options out there. We established an SMI Facebook presence last year and continue to learn how to best utilize it to broaden SMI's reach.

Secondly, our reader demographic skews towards a "mature" (i.e., older) audience. SMI has had a harder time reaching the younger crowd, which isn't too surprising, given that it's a reach for most younger people to pay for investing counsel when they don't have much money invested yet. Establishing a presence on sites like Twitter and Facebook will hopefully help attract younger readers, or at the very least, put SMI on their radar. Ideally, we'll be able to convey the fact that SMI offers significant benefits even to those still in the "getting out of debt" phase of life. (There's a reason so many new readers write to us saying, "if only I had found SMI 10 years ago" or "when I was younger.")

So what does this mean for you? The Sound Mind Investing website will still be the best place to go for the most up-to-date information. But due to the viral nature of social media, our name spreads simply by Twitter users following us. So if you're using Twitter, by all means, come follow us.

Furthermore, if you know someone who could benefit from SMI but they're not ready to become members, letting them know they can follow us on Twitter (and/or Facebook) may help get them familiar with who we are and what we do.

If you haven't tried Twitter, check it out. It's fun and easy. If you have any questions, shoot me an email at mpblog@soundmindinvesting.com.

Happy Twittering.

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WANTED: SMI Handbook reviews

As you may recall, we released the 5th Edition Sound Mind Investing Handbook late last year.

What you may not know is that Crown Financial Ministries is now the distributor of the book (except for orders that come through our site). Furthermore, we're doing some co-branding with Crown, given that the book is listed as a "Destination 5" resource on the Crown Money Map. This designation now appears on the back cover of the SMI Handbook.

Crown has already gotten the book listed on Amazon. We have updated the listing and enabled the "Look Inside" option where you can view the contents of the book before buying it. But currently, all the reviews are actually for the previous edition. We've been very fortunate as we have two dozen reviews of older editions and it AVERAGED a perfect 5 star rating! We hope it continues with this new 5th edition.

If any of you would like to give the new edition a review on Amazon, we certainly would appreciate it. Our readers' feedback is immensely important to us and serves as one of our top sources of referrals. We would be very grateful to any of you who can help continue this tradition and begin to build a new track record of quality reviews.

Thanks.

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April issue now available

The April 2009 issue of the newsletter has just been posted to the website. You can browse all of the new content via the table of contents page.

Readers following our Fund Upgrading strategy are advised that two funds are being replaced this month.

Web members can read the write-ups of the new funds we're adding here.

Posted by Mark at 2:57 PM | Comments (0)
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New SMI Offering

We're pleased to announce the Blogger Referral Program. If you're a blogger and like to talk about us, we want to make sure you get credit (ex: two free issues or web months) for anyone you refer who becomes a member (beyond the 30-Day Free Trial). In the past this wasn't always easy because at sign-up, a new member would forget or pick the wrong "How Heard" selection or leave an inadequate description for us to work off of.

But now, we can offer you a special SMI destination URL to use on your blog that will incorporate special code so that new orders come to us with your information as the source of the referral, regardless of what the new member selects in the "How Heard" portion of the order form.

If you are interested in getting your own SMI Destination URL, please email customerservice@soundmindinvesting.com with "Blogger Referral" in the subject. If you have other questions, you can post them here on the message boards or send them to the email above.

Posted by Matthew at 1:16 PM | Comments (0)
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Random new issue notes

A couple of quick follow-up notes to the new February issue just released:

• In the Level 4 report card, I mentioned the $700 million government TARP program. Must have been subconscious wishful thinking. That number should be $700 billion. We've corrected it online, but alas, 'tis too late to correct in the print version. I've already received 20 lashes with a wet noodle, with the other 20 to be administered after this blog post is complete.
• In Austin's editorial, he mentions that he has shifted the Upgrading portion of his portfolio exclusively to SMIFX for 2009, after using SMIVX for two-thirds of his Upgrading money last year.

  That may surprise some people (even though he notes it's an aggressive posture and that continuing with SMIVX is a more conservative approach). This is a great example of us offering what we're doing as an example, but we're definitely not trying to imply that readers should rush out and copy our exact approach. Austin's situation may be quite different than yours, as he's already 20% in bonds, with another 20% that can be out of the market entirely at any point (his market timing slice). He's clearly playing this Upgrading piece as aggressively as possible, but recognize that move is in the context of having as much as 40% of his portfolio deployed with very low risk.

  For a dose of contrast, my 2009 portfolio is 100% in equities (due to my younger age), so my overall stock/bond allocation is more aggressive than Austin's. (Remember, that's your most important investing decision - the one that will likely have a bigger impact on your eventual returns than any other.) I also have quite a bit more allocated to aggressive advanced strategies (Sector Rotation and a new idea we're working on) than Austin does. But with the roughly 70% of my portfolio that's devoted to Upgrading, I've still got nearly half of that in SMIVX. So I'm being more conservative with that particular piece, while being more aggressive with my portfolio as a whole.

  For those trying to decipher all this SMIFX vs. SMIVX talk, it basically breaks down this way. Your most aggressive posture would be 100% SMIFX (pure Upgrading). Your most conservative posture would be 100% SMIVX (hedged upgrading). And of course, the two can be combined in any measure between those extremes.

  I plan to reduce my VX holdings and increase my FX holdings when the All-Clear signal is given. But for now, I'm perfectly willing to give up a little upside potential in order to gain some downside protection in SMIVX. Likewise, if you're using the SMI Funds for part or all of your Upgrading money, you should feel comfortable adjusting the mix to your particular comfort level.

Posted by Mark at 2:38 PM | Comments (0)
Category(s): SMI General Announcements

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February issue now available

The February 2009 issue of the newsletter has just been posted to the website.

There are no changes to our Fund Upgrading lineup this month.

Posted by Mark at 1:11 PM | Comments (0)
Category(s): SMI General Announcements

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