Linkfest: The Week Ahead

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Yesterday we looked at the week that was. Today, we  preview the week that might be.

With the third quarter now over, investors will be looking for any signs as to how the fourth quarter will unfold. We are in the middle of the earnings warning period, so specific stocks -- as opposed to the entire market -- can get volatile. Pay close attention to what we hear from retailers (mediocre), finance firms (lots of unanswered questions) and technology (surprisingly strong numbers).

This week will also see a smattering of earnings reports: Palm(PALM Quote), Research in Motion(RIMM Quote), Walgreen(WAG Quote), Marriott(MAR Quote) and Pepsi Bottling Group(PBC Quote). Across the pond, my very favorite necktie designer, Ted Baker, reports Thursday. ...