The Markets - Oct 9, 2010

I am getting back into Mutual Funds (MFs) and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and have decided to record weekly results, in an effort to gain more understanding of what to invest in ... someone who only has a few years remaining to play with their RRSPs.

This article from the Star focuses on the "dominant theme" approach for the long-haul investor. 
It should work for the shorter-term investor (5-10 years) also.
It clearly indicates energy and resources as the prime areas to invest in for the future.
If you haven't placed any retirement funds in these areas, it is not too late.
I have CIBC Precious Metals and TD Resource MFs and they are doing nicely at this time.

This article shows to best/worst 5-year funds and it clearly indicates precious metals at the top. There doesn't appear to be any way for gold to go but up. Resource stocks are also in this group and with India and China developing there will be a continued need for copper, aluminium and other base metals.

ETFs are something I have wanted to look into as a shorter-term investment.
While I don't completely understand them, I sense they are slightly less risk than MFs.
The one I am interest in and will probably buy this week is HBP NYMEX Crude Oil Bull + ETF ... after more analysis (10/20/10 - glad i didn't invest).


If you have other good ideas for shorter-term mutual fund investment, pls make a comment or send me an e-mail.