Commentary: The Linux alternative for PDAs. Wireless isn't the only lure that handheld makers are dangling in front of prospective buyers. But Meta Group says Linux PDAs will have to settle for niches. [CNET News.com]

I used to care about Palm vs Windows CE. I bought an Agenda, a Linux based organizer when my Palm went on the blink, thinking I could have an organizer plus a Unix box in my pocket.

I ended up buying a low end Palm. I don't use it much. I rely mostly on my paper organizer. Palm and Microsoft are now fighting a battle to see who can cram as much as possible into their PDA.

In the mean time, I base more of work around my computer on my desk at work, with links via the net and a virtual private network.

Maybe when some one hands me a seamless wireless view into that world, I'll take it.  8:50:59 PM    

It looks to like my friends at the Motley Fool are about to call it quits on yet another investing strategy, Rule Makers.

I thought the original concept was quite daring and an interesting corollary to some of my thoughts. If you assume the market is efficient, then every stock is properly priced every day. You can meet the market averages by investing in an index fund. If you pick the best companies out of that pool, you should outperform the index.

My objection was that they neglected any sense of buying value. By purchasing what the market percieved as the best companies, they paid premium prices. When the companies go out of favor, the premium disappears and the concept underperforms the market.

I've taken the approach of buying solid companies at times when the market saw increased risk. Starbucks, Apple, Whole Foods, Williams Sonoma, Home Depot have done well for me this year.

At this point, other than Macromedia, I see little value in the market and continue to hold 50% cash.  8:06:40 PM    

A Core Investing Value. It's all about "great companies at good prices." Bill Mann (re)defines the Rule Maker strategy. [The Motley Fool]  7:59:21 PM