audio clip describing the themes of the book.

I know I haven’t shown up here lately, as the new book, Shoptimism, has kept me more than busy enough. But this morning there is a story in the New York Times that prompted me to come out of Number-retirement. The piece examines the one rule regarded as universal truth in The Number, the Bill Bengen hypothesis that if, beginning as age 55, and your portfolio is allocated roughly 60-40 bonds to stocks, you can safely withdraw 4-5% of your nest egg without ever running out of money. The gist of the Times piece, obviously occasioned by the cataclysm of the past two years. In any event, guess what: the 4-5% rule still holds. Here’s the link to the piece: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/29/your-money/individual-retirement-account-iras/29money.html?pagewanted=2&ref=todayspaper

I’ve got a piece posted on The Daily Beast about an investment scheme I recommend only if you’re not playing Rotisserie Baseball this season: http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2009-04-09/return-of-the-day-trader

The Daily Beast asked me to do a short update on the spending scene: http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2009-02-27/haggling-through-the-apocalypse/full/

I’ve got a piece coming out in the next (March) issue of Conde Nast Portfolio. It revisits the Number in light of recent events.

Just a note to say that I’m putting finishing touches on my next book, to be published this fall. It’s a journey through the brave heart, bizarre mind, and undying spirit of American consumers — in good times and bad. The title is Shoptimism, and I’ve just launched a blog built around some of the themes I’ll explore in the book. Please check it out when you have a chance.

Given that it’s a slow news day — Rosie O’Donnell has declared she has no more to say about Donald Trump — I thought I’d take advantage of the silence and send you an overdue update on things Number-wise. The trade paperback edition came out just last week and seems to be doing well — it’ll turn up on the NY Times extended bestseller list as of January 21, just four notches below In Cold Blood, which has been out for over 40 years. The Number should live so long. I’m also pleased to report that Business Week selected The Number as one of the best “career” books of 2006. As far as world news is concerned, the Turkish edition of the book (announced here previously) will be published next month, joining other international editions in Taiwan and Korea, a geocultural pattern — the Axis of Enlightenment? — that defies easy explanation. Otherwise, I’m dividing my time between research on a new project — details a closely held secret, even from me — and giving updated presentations built around new reporting on The Number. Thanks to many of you for staying in touch — and, most importantly, warm New Year wishes to everyone out there.

Just returned from the Financial Planning Association’s annual conference, where I delivered a keynote presentation to some 3000 financial advisers. They were welcoming and warm, though understandably unsettled by the surroundings — namely, the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, surreal details of which I’ll try to provide in a later post.

Anyway, the talk seemed to go over well, but just as rewarding were the hallway interactions with so many people – from U.S., Korea, the Netherlands, and many other nations — who are determined to bring greater integrity and professionalism to the widely befogged world of financial advising.

Many folks commented on the book and told me that they were giving it to friends, family and clients, hoping to stir up some new insights or, perhaps, nudge them into action. With the holidays right around the corner, someone also inquired about whether it is possible to send signed copies as gifts, and the answer is yes, but it requires some prompt action. I’m told that the supply of in-stock, inscribed copies is limited.

To place an order for signed copies, please contact 800CEORead, a link to which is at the bottom of the Buy page on this site. These personally signed editions are available at a discount, as follows: 0-24 copies 20% off list $20.80 each 25-99 copies 30% off list $18.20 each 100+ copies 35% off list $16.90 each

Given the time crunch between now and the holidays, it might be good idea to call Meg at 800-236-7323 (ext. 206) just to confirm that indeed she’ll be sending you copies from the signed pile.

Gratifying news today: I was delighted to hear that THE NUMBER has been named one of five finalists in the best Business book category for the 2006 Quill Book Awards. The winners, which are selected by popular vote underway now through September 30, will be announced at a ceremony to be held in New York City on October 10, then broadcasted on NBC on October 28. Last year’s Business winner was Freakonomics.

I’m pleased to report that THE NUMBER is on an international roll. Most recently, global publishers abroad have contracted to bring out foreign-language editions in Korea, Taiwan, and Turkey. Also on the calendar is a September talk I’ll be giving in Hong Kong. The event is the 2006 CLSA Investors Forum, which annually brings together several hundred CEOs worldwide. This year’s featured speakers also include Alan Greenspan and Al Gore. From Hong Kong, it’s back to the States for several planned talks, notably the Financial Planning Association’s annual meeting in October. All that’s to the good. The challenge is to get through it all without shaving cream, deodorant, and toothpaste.