Guest commentary: Consider impact investing to make more of a statement
By Tom Washing Over the past fifteen years, a new investment class has emerged, and its momentum is accelerating — impact investing. Impact investing comprises investments made to generate social impact as well as realistic financial returns. Examples include companies whose products or services address today’s most unrelenting challenges in healthcare, the environment, climate change, Read More →
Guest commentary: This is what happens to home prices and rents when people dying outpaces people buying
By John Grace Everyone knows that interest rates, location, and inventory drive the conventional wisdom on the housing market. Let’s challenge what we think we know with George Patton’s sage observation, “If everybody is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.” Dent Research makes the future very clear. “This will be a worldwide real estate crash Read More →
Our view: Storms move in with risks and benefits
For the second time this winter, the region is bracing for heavy rains – a double-edged sword for business and the economy. For many companies, rain and flooding represent dangerous threats, as we found out in late December when flooding along the Ventura County coast triggered $30 million in damage at the Port of Hueneme, Read More →
Guest commentary: How small-time investors can get into real estate, even if they can’t afford a home
By Sam Shvartsmann There’s no doubt that Southern California — and the nation more broadly — is facing a housing affordability crisis. Real estate prices and mortgage rates have soared since the start of the pandemic. Despite a recent dip in mortgage rates and housing prices, buying a home remains out of reach for many. Read More →
Guest commentary: Affordable housing is a foundation for strong communities
By Jeff Eckles In the heart of our community lies a crucial concern that directly impacts the well-being of all our citizens — affordable housing. As the CEO of the SLO County Housing Trust Fund, a non-profit affordable housing revolving loan fund, I want to share the significance of this challenge and advocate for its Read More →
Our view: December storms test Port’s adaptability
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Guest commentary: Being a friendly neighbor to elderly people in your community is vital
By Tammy Glenn More than 10,000 Americans are turning 65 every day. America has more people over the age of 85 than under the age of five. This socioeconomic shift impacts employees, families and neighborhoods. Investing in volunteer caregiving could not be more critical than it is right now. Forty years ago, the writing was Read More →