The Coming Week on TSC

It's like running into a buzz saw. That's how this turbulent opening week of the year felt. Down 7% in the Nasdaq Tuesday, roaring ahead 14% on the same index when the Fed surprised us on Wednesday. And then right back into the dump on Friday. It's hard to catch your breath when the market is moving with that kind of speed.

As we demonstrated Wednesday, we're ready for you when the going gets brutal. We had stories analyzing the Fed move, from the economy to different sectors to the market outlook. And we're going to stay on the case, examining every shred of data, hunting for the clues that will tell you where this economy and this market are heading. It's vital to arm yourself with as much information as possible in these challenging times, and we're moving on all cylinders to make sure you're not left wanting.

This week we're also taking a longer look ahead with Ian McDonald's 10 questions to six top fund managers. He's exploring their outlook for the entire year. If the first week is any hint, this is already a crystal-ball gazer's nightmare.

Also, it may be tempting to peek at some of the brand-name stocks trading below $10. But this strategy can be fraught with peril. Check out a story this week by Dan Colarusso and Dan Bernstein that examines the strategy, looking not only at the dangers but also at the occasional promise of screening for cheap stocks.

Some of what we're doing is working with you, trying to find out what information will help you invest more widely. Have we helped out yet with our new What Works column by Jamie Heller? This column is all about what works, and what doesn't work in sites and services for online investors. Heller does the research, but she needs to hear from you about your experiences -- your broker, the sites you use, the sites you've bagged. Right now, topics she's tackling are which brokers are best for mutual fund investing, streaming quotes and alerts. Email her at [e-mail].

Finally, we'd like to thank readers who helped make our book, TheStreet.com's Guide to Smart Investing in the Internet Era: Everything You Need to Know to Outsmart Wall Street and Select Winning Stocks, a success out of the gate. On Friday, our book rose to the No. 1 position on the Amazon bestseller list! If you want to learn more about our book, go here.

If you've got comments, questions or concerns, don't hesitate to email me at [e-mail]. I'll make sure your issues get handled.

Get ready for another intense week on TheStreet.com!

L'Etoile du Nord

Dave Kansas
Editor-in-Chief