With the DOW edging above 9000 last week, stock investors are feeling a sense of relief. Whether or not we have hit bottom, the substantial rise in prices offers a chance to breathe. You can now look at your portfolio as a whole and cover your bases--not just for future growth but for future safety.
Unfortunately, the prospects for traditional safe havens--intermediate- and long-term bonds--are questionable. Higher interest rates and inflation, which may be in the offing, could erode their value. So what's a cautious investor to do?
First, rebalance your portfolio to be sure you are comfortable with your exposure...