When cash is tight or opportunities arise, people often want to tap their IRAs or other retirement accounts. There could be a penalty for doing so if you are under age 59½. But there are 13 exceptions to the penalty, so with a little planning you might be able to avoid the penalty and have more after-tax cash to spend. Read More

Thinking of buying automaker stocks? Here’s a better way to play the latest increase in auto sales. Read More

When it comes to attracting foreign investment, Australia’s natural resources make it the belle of the ball. But it may be time to direct more of its attention outward. Read More

Republican candidate Mitt Romney has said he won't reappoint Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke to another term. Here's what an end to monetary easing could mean for investors. Read More

While mergers between utilities are typically successful, similar deals in other industries tend to disappoint. That checkered past is worth keeping in mind, as the flow of new deals appears to be ramping up. Read More

Jim likes one of the two Kraft post-spinoff companies more, but which one? Read More

President Barack Obama and his Republican challenger Mitt Romney differ sharply in their domestic policymaking, so we analyze how the election’s outcome could affect three key areas of the market. Read More

With its pending addition to the benchmark index, PetSmart is starting to get the recognition it deserves. Read More

Despite the hype about the US auto industry’s comeback, its shares seem unlikely to accelerate in the near term. But for long-term investors, some car companies are worth a look. Read More

Hungrier emerging-market consumers and harsh weather are boosting crop prices. Here are two investments that aim to take advantage. Read More