The study of the economy of Cuba can be divided into four phases. The first phase consists of the occupation of the island by the Spanish, which led to the extinction of the aboriginals and the bringing of African slaves to work on the sugar plantations. At this point of time, Cuba provided for the highly profitable business of sugar cultivation and its exports. Sugar industry was the crux of Cuba’s economy and Cuba rose to become one of the largest producers of sugar in the world.


The second phase pertains to the years following the wars of independence against the Spanish and also the invasion of Cuba by the US. It is marked by the sweeping powers of intervention obtained by the US in 1902, with the Cuban economy being controlled by the growing investment of the US citizens in the sugar plantations of Cuba. Now, again, money and profits from the sugar plantation, sugar refineries and subsidiary sugar products such as rum went to the many American investors and a few Cuban elite. The other major industries also included tourism, tobacco, transportation, mining and the communication industry.


The third phase begins with the Cuban revolution and the beginning of Fidel Castro’s rule in the year 1959. All plantations that were more than 400 hectares became state owned and all industries including the petroleum and the telephones became nationalized. This lead to the US trade embargo towards Cuba. Cuba lost its traditional international market. However, Cuba found a trade and political ally in the USSR when the Cuban-sugar for Russian-oil package worked well. Cuba reoriented itself to the Russian and pro-Russian market and did over 80% of its international trade with them. The next 30 years saw tremendous improvement in health care, education and social welfare. Cuba boasts of a 97% literacy rate and the life expectancy increased to 76%. There was an egalitarian distribution of income and Cuba’s income inequality index became the lowest in the world.


All was well until 1989 when it became clear to Cuba that sooner or later Cuba would have to learn to do without any subsidies or trade relations with the USSR and the eastern European countries. The fourth phase begins here with the government dubbing it as the ‘Special Period in Peacetime’. The economic reforms include:


(i) the opening and gearing up of tourism as an industry

(ii) diversification of the agricultural sector by producing fruits and vegetables and rice along with live stock for local consumption that include the visiting tourists.

(iii) production of more of citrus food and less of sugar

(iv) focusing on that sector of fisheries which sent its fleets to nearby seas and exporting spiny lobsters to Japan

(v) State-owned lands have been converted to agricultural cooperatives that are managed to a certain degree by the workers. Retail outlets at a small scale have been allowed for the food market. In the field of food production, allowing the sale of excess production (which is above the state-fixed production quota) in the free market has brought down black markets, in addition to enhancing production

(vi) Foreign investments in various industries such as tourism, mining, telecommunication, construction and manufacturing sectors have been allowed

(vii) Self employment has been legalized for around 150 occupations.


Investment into biotechnology and pharmaceuticals during the third phase reaped returns when products of this industry were available for export now at the fourth phase.


The other Cuban industries include cement, steel, agricultural machinery and construction.


Fisheries, nickel and ore production, growing agricultural products such as fruits, tobacco are some areas that have shown growth in the export sector. Cuba now exports to European countries (50%), Canada and Latin America (20%), and Asia (20%).


Spain, France, and United Kingdom have invested in the tobacco and cigar production. Spain and Canada have invested in the exploration of oil off the shores of Cuba. Mexico, Canada, Australia, South-Africa, Netherlands, Brazil, and Chile are the other major countries that have invested in the various industries of Cuba.


Cuba has entered into an agreement with Venezuela whereby thousands of Cubans who are doctors, teachers and sports trainers, and engineers would move in to Venezuela to assist their development program in return for 53,000 barrels of oil per day being shipped to Cuba for the next five years.


“Energy revolution” where apart form changing the entire system of power generation and distribution, energy conservation is also aimed at, has been in vogue in Cuba for the last two years. The quality of life of the Cubans are improving with the volunteers of the government replacing on a door-to-door campaign, the existing electric stoves and lights with the ones that are more efficient and less energy consuming. Energy efficient refrigerators and television sets have been distributed and would be installed in all the thousands of housing units that the government is building. Energy efficient buses from China would soon be available for the Cuban public transport. It is just a matter of some time when power generation would take place at hundreds of units that are well synchronized, thus avoiding wastage of power while distributing it through very long distances. Generation of natural gas while exploring for oil at oil rigs is also considered.


Cuba has also legalized the US dollars. Further, the Venezuelan inputs for domestic oil production and upgradation of existing power stations have raised the level of optimism. Cuba is also hoping to find oil off its shores. Apart from the sugar industry and its related products, there are various industries such as tourism (also called the lung of the Cuban economy), fisheries, nickel and ore production, production of tobacco, Cuban cigar, citrus fruits, pharmaceuticals, coffee, besides basic manufacturing industries which have earned Cuba foreign exchange. Cuba has learned to manage its post-USSR economic condition and is steering towards a more prosperous economy.

Visit CubaChannel.com today for breaking news, regular news articles, blog, videos, forums, and information about the land, people, history, culture, government, political conditions, travel, business, and economy of Cuba at http://www.cubachannel.com

Put This in Your Pipe and Smoke It – Top 5 Nicaraguan Cigars

Arnold Schwarzenegger. Tom Cruise. Mel Gibson. Harrison Ford. Sylvester Stallone.

 

What in the world do all of these high-octane megastars have in common? No, they’re not all starring in Mission: Testosterone, this summer’s most muscled blockbuster. But, they do share a unique bond. In fact, they share the same connection with such historically notable folks as Fidel Castro, W.C. Fields, and even King Edward VII.

 

How could kings, comedians, and revolutionary leaders have anything in common with the Terminator, Rambo, and Braveheart?

 

It’s simple: They all love a good cigar! No, actually, they all love a great cigar!

 

And, when it comes to great cigars, arguably there are none better today than those coming from rich soils and humid mountain hillsides of Nicaragua. Long having taken a backseat to the Cuban cigar-making dynasty, Nicaragua is making its mark on the international scene with the finest cigars found anywhere on the planet.

 

Just like its booming real estate market that has rebounded after natural disasters and political unrest to become one of the best places in the world to invest, the Nicaraguan cigar industry is benefiting and experiencing a renaissance as well. From the center of it cigar revolution in Esteli to Condega and all the way out to the Jalapa Valley, Nicaragua is home to the world’s best cigar makers, tobacco, and established and up-and-coming brands.

With so many great cigars to choose from, the problem for the cigar aficionado and the newbie alike becomes not “How can I find a good Nicaraguan cigar,” but where should I even start? To help you make your way through the jungle landscape of choice, let’s take a look at five all-time favorites.

 

5. Plasencia Organica Nesticos

 

Profile: small cigar, mild, but rich taste

 

Big things come in little packages! The world’s first 100% Certified Organic cigar, the Plasencia Organica Nesticos are pure handmade tobacco magic. These little cigars take advantage of Plansencia’s renowned three-year-aged, organically-grown Nicaraguan tobaccos and serve it up in a smoke-able size that allows you to enjoy big cigar flavor even when you don’t have a lot of time.

 

4. Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970, Robusto Grande.

Profile: strong, robust, earthy, woody, big, heavy-bodied…you get the idea, this cigar ain’t messing around!

 

This hefty all-Nicaraguan tobacco cigar was crafted to appeal to an American clientele who could no longer puff their favorite Havanas after the Cuban revolution. Let’s just call it like it is: The Robusto Grande is a big daddy of a cigar – both in size and flavor. There’s no getting around the fact that it packs a seriously rich blow with that characteristic Nicaraguan metallic twang. If you like your cigars to knock you out with a power-packed punch, this is your choice.

 

3. Felipe II Fat Boy

 

Profile: medium-bodied, earthy, spicy coffee bean aromas, roasted butter finish

 

Rated 90 by Cigar Aficionado, this ridiculously rich tasting cigar by Felipe Gregorio is definitely round and robust, but has a seamlessly smooth quality that makes it a definite contender. The Fat Boy’s small, but stocky size (3.5 x 55) gives it a definite “Don’t Mess with Me” attitude. When you’re feeling like a fine fatty at a reasonable rate, find yourself a Felipe II and get ready for a taste explosion.

 

2. Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series

 

Profile: medium to full-bodied, long finish, perfectly balanced.

 

If you want to feel like a celebrity, then you’ll want to take a pull on any cigar from the Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series. Made to celebrate their 30th anniversary, this line is crafted from only their best tobaccos and is often quite difficult to find. However, when you do get your hands on one, you’ll experience a masterful cigar from first spark to final ash tap. Despite the price, this is a must-have in your collection.

 

1. Perdomo Edición de Silvio

 

Profile: robust, delicate tones, perfection

 

This exquisite cigar is considered by many to be one of the best in the world bar none. With a secret blend of the finest tobaccos, this is the holy grail of cigars. And, although it is by far the most exclusive (read: expensive) cigar on my list, it’s not to be missed. So, when you start making huge profits with your Nicaraguan real estate investments, you can experience a little decadence with a Perdomo Edicion de Silvio.

 

As you can quickly see, the Nicaraguan cigar revolution is in full swing – a rich variety of flavors that is unmatched anywhere in the world. With its fascinating history, the Nicaraguan cigar story is one that can’t be missed. When you light up any of the above cigars, you’ll know that you’ve found a new favorite in Nicaragua.

 

Originally from San Diego, California, Scott Taylor is an extreme adventure-loving world traveler and international real estate expert and investor living and working in Panama City, Panama. With years of experience investing in countries around the globe, Scott has a particular affection for the land, people, and?of course?real estate of Nicaragua.www.LiveAndInvestInNicaragua.com

Smoking has remained an integral part of young and old since the beginning of time. Ask a smoker what is the real charm of smoking and the twinkle in the eyes will speak a thousand words. Cigars enjoy mass appeal at all times. They are way to flaunt your style, monetary status, power, and passion. Your cigars are the integral part of each and every celebration, personal pride, and happiness. The cigars are available in many designs, colors and flavors. You just need to buy as per your taste.

Manufacturing of the cigars

Cigars are made up of tobacco leaves. Carefully collected and cleaned and packed manually, the taste of the cigars depends upon these small yet essential stages of manufacturing and packaging. The tobacco leaves are grown in parts of Poland, South Africa and Argentina. Depending upon the way each leaf is packed in the cigar you can categorize into mild, medium and full bodied. The amount of smoke produced in the mouth adds up to the value of the cigar, but this term is totally subjective. There are many brands available in the market and they are individually categorized into different categories for size, flavors, aroma and amount of smoke formed in the mouth.

Types of cigars

There are many world famous brands of which the Cuban cigars need special mentioning. The specialty of this brand is the fact that despite being banned by the government it is hot favorite of millions across the globe. Other than that the Macanudo cigars and Churchill, Robust, Corona etc are few of the worth special mentioning brands from the millions available.

Buying cigars online

You can now buy your cigars online at one convenient website. There are many agents who stock and supply the cigars of all reputed brands at heavily discounted prices. You simply need to click and order. Within days your order will reach your doorsteps. Also, these agents have collections of all related accessories at their online store as well. You can now compare prices and buy from the store of your choice.

GothamCigars.com provides the freshest selections of premium Cigars, humidors, cigar samplers and tobacco cigar accessories. It is your best choice for buying discount Cigar online.

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These designer bags are chic, fun, stylish, all in one bag. What a wonderful way to complete your wardrobe. Never have the same bag two days in a row. Get the designs you want and have the hand bag that compliments your outfit.

Miche Bags are the biggest thing to hit the market today. Everyone will want one when you show up at the party or after hours meeting place with your new bag. You’ll be the hit of the party.

By shopping online you have the advantage of paying discount prices and the choice of hundreds of different designs to choose from. The local stores in your area would only be able to show just a few designs because of the limited space available to them. Online you can view everything they have to offer and pick the one that’s just right for you. Either you will have to order through the store or you can eliminate the middle man and order it yourself. You will save yourself a lot of time, as the bag will be shipped directly to you and not to the store first and you’ll have to wait for them to contact you that your bag has arrived for pick up.

Also there are many different accessories available to pick from. There are different types of straps to choose from, along with purse organizers. There are two types of hand bags to choose, the large or small bag. What better way to have just the hand bag you want.

The Miche Bag is one of the most innovative hand bags on the market today. Get the one that’s right for you. For more information on these bags and more visit my website at http://www.LifeWellness.org/?cat= 14.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/shopping-articles/have-the-most-innovative-handbag-available-on-the-market-today-the-miche-bag-1730990.html

Bunk beds are ideal for children of all ages. They perfect for sleepovers and shared bedrooms. Kids love them because they offer a unique hideout and parents love them because they are efficient space-savers. If you’re looking to purchase a new bunk bed for your little one’s bedroom than you need to be aware of the numerous options available on the market. Each type presents a unique set of advantages that may or may not work for your current space.

Standard Wooden Bunk Beds

As the subtitle suggests, standard bunk beds are exactly what you picture them to be. They are composed of two bunks, each with its own mattress, stacked on top of each other. Standard bunk beds come in a variety of sizes, making them ideal for shared bedrooms. You can also purchase a set that can easily detach and form two separate beds if desired. If you decide on a standard bunk make sure that it comes equipped with a sturdy, angled wooden ladder and safety rails for added security.

Metal Bunk Beds

Metal bunk beds are the sturdiest, most durable material you can invest in for your child. They also give you a wider variety of color options when compared to standard wooden bunks. Aligning a metal bunk with existing room décor will be incredibly easy. They also come in a variety of sizes make them perfect for older children and sleepovers. Again, if you decide to purchase a metal bunk, make sure it comes with an attached angled or built-in ladder for easy climbing access. It should also be equipped with safety guards to keep in the roughest sleepers tucked in tight every night.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/shopping-articles/the-best-bunk-beds-on-the-market-part-1-1677575.html

Bunk beds are ideal for children of all ages. They perfect for sleepovers and shared bedrooms. Kids love them because they offer a unique hideout and parents love them because they are efficient space-savers. If you’re looking to purchase a new bunk bed for your little one’s bedroom than you need to be aware of the numerous options available on the market. Each type presents a unique set of advantages that may or may not work for your current space.

Loft Bunk Beds

Loft bunk beds are the ideal choice for older children and teenagers. They are excellent space savers because you can easily slide a coordinating desk, dresser or storage unit underneath. Older kids will feel love the added height they receive from a lofted bed. A high quality loft bed will last for years and will be the perfect addition to your son or daughter’s college dorm room when the time comes. These beds come in a variety of styles, materials and colors, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your child without too much trouble.

Futon Bunk Beds

Futon bunk beds are by far the most versatile bunk bed option. They optimize floor space and provide your son or daughter with both ample sleeping space as well as lounging and reading space. You child will love the option of converting the comfortable lower bunk into a spacious couch at will. A futon bunk bed will be the perfect addition to your child’s bedroom and similar to a loft bunk bed; it will be great for your child’s future dorm room.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/shopping-articles/the-best-bunk-beds-on-the-market-part-2-1677631.html

Now people even can’t live without cell phones, mobile phone market have many types of patterns, A full-featured, both with the international well-known brand: Whether the product categories, product quality, or product prices, always have its special advantage. People will think functions is better, price will be higher.

However, in fact there are some phones with big brand, the price is very competitive. This is a listing of cell phone or when located in high cost-effective, Or the early high-end mobile phone market-baptism, or the upgraded model was replaced gradually reduced to a more reasonable price. For those who want to have a brand-name mobile phone, but do not want to spend a lot of friends, this phone is undoubtedly a very good choice. esaleschina on the selection of highly cost-effective of several big-name mobile phone, interested friends can have a look at it.

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Bulk Wholesale 3.0 Inch Simulation iPhone With Invisible Keypad and Analog TV Direct From China Electronics Wholesale Online Shopping.It supports Dual sim cards dual standby + TV + FM + Dual Bluetooth + High-resolution dual camera + Invisible Keypad + 3.0″touch screen + Multiple languages + Dual band//Quadband.

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With the excellent work-group, esaleschina enjoys good experience of research, produce and sales at the digital series. Moreover, esaleschina has the powerful technology and advanced equipment. All of these make esaleschina playing an important part in the digital & electronic line!

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Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/shopping-articles/2010-new-patterns-of-mobile-phones-market-1671521.html

During the past sixty years, most economic, market, and interest rate cycles have lasted from two to five years, peak-to-peak. Rarely have any of the cycle-tracking market indices moved in tandem, and none of the cycles are considered to be particularly predictable.

 Individual securities (the stuff that indices are made of) complicate things significantly by having even less predictable cycles of their own. This generally uncertain atmosphere is the very nature of the financial markets. If investors could come to grips with the non-calendar, cyclical, nature of markets, it is likely that they could improve their investment performance considerably.

 In spite of decades of irrefutable evidence to the contrary, Wall Street has convinced most investors and far too many financial professionals that the calendar year is somehow investment relevant. Simple, yes; tax-code friendly, perhaps; but investment realistic— not.

 Too many experts have abandoned the financial world’s fascinating cyclical undulations for the simplicity of the planet’s annual orbit around the sun. It’s time for a change in direction— one that doesn’t ignore the realities of the investment markets. It’s time to get back on our “hogs”, and ride!

 Regardless of direction, all cyclical movements have proven to be excellent investment opportunities for Market Cycle Investment Management (MCIM) navigators. The MCIM Program uses a time-proven methodology that befriends market and interest rate cycles by using strategies that most often should produce:

 * Higher market value lows during market downturns.

* Moves to cash before corrections take over from rallies.

* Maintenance of planned income during financial crises.

* Faster movement to new market value highs.

* Steady growth in “working capital” in all market environments.

* Annual growth of realized “base income” in all portfolios.

* No major disappearing (unrealized) profits.

* Much better than average peak-to-peak market value numbers.

* Auto pilot maintenance of asset allocation structure.

* Reduction of analysis paralysis, appreciation of both rallies and corrections, and love of market volatility.

 The past twelve years have included two major market cycles and one significant economic crisis. Email me to see how well Market Cycle Investment Management accounts fared during this interesting segment of financial history. Read “Brainwashing the American Investor” to appreciate the MCIM program— in operation since 1970.

 All investors should become familiar with Market Cycle Investment Management accounts and the strategies they employ to keep portfolios on track from start up to retirement. As a family evolves over time, separately managed, “life cycle” friendly, portfolios will become necessary. For example:

 Group One -Taxable income and Investment Grade Value Stock (IGVSI) portfolios for tax deferred accounts

 * 70% IGVSI Equities and 30% Taxable CEFs

* 50% IGVSI Equities and 50% Taxable CEFs

* 30% IGVSI Equities and 70% Taxable CEFs

 Group Two – Tax free income and Investment Grade Value Stock (IGVSI) portfolios for taxable accounts

 * 70% IGVSI Equities and 30% Tax Free CEFs

* 50% IGVSI Equities and 50% Tax Free CEFs

* 30% IGVSI Equities and 70% Tax Free CEFs

Group Three – Tax managed portfolios, asset allocated as in Group Two, for taxable accounts.

 Notes: (1) Group One and Two portfolios would be managed in accordance with The Working Capital Model, as documented profusely in the books and articles of Investment Manager Steve Selengut. (2) Group Three portfolios would be managed similarly; however, tax loss selling will be used annually to offset a significant portion of trading gains. 

 Reasonable Expectations: (1) Portfolios should lose less market value during market corrections and recover to new highs more quickly. (2) Profit taking during rallies, regular cash flow, and strict stock purchase rules should produce quicker recoveries. (3) Income production from equities, combined with a significant income securities bucket, assure annual increases in “base income” levels.

 Market Cycle Investment Management replaces the racetrack mentality that runs today’s investment performance evaluation methodologies with a calmer, more cerebral, strategy.

 By looking at things cyclically, and analytically, instead of celestially and emotionally, we allow our strategy to prove itself over a reasonable period of time— as it has since 1970. 

 If the investment strategy makes sense in the long run, why knock yourself out in months, quarters, and years? Pick the MCIM program or programs that suit you best today and let them work you through the cycles the investment gods are preparing for your future.

 Attend a seminar, adopt the program, and smile.

Steve Selengut
http://www.kiawahgolfinvestmentseminars.net
Professional Portfolio Management since 1979
Author of: “The Brainwashing of the American Investor: The Book that Wall Street Does Not Want YOU to Read”, and “A Millionaire’s Secret Investment Strategy”

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/wealth-building-articles/the-market-cycle-investment-management-mcim-program-1641106.html

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