MARKET COMMENTARY on MARKET COMMENTARY on Thursday: 05/15/08 10:30 AM EDT : There was plenty of economic data this morning and most of it was bond-friendly; that is, it supports the argument for further rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. But Treasuries are only slightly higher so far in today's session. Despite all the bad economic news and another increase in oil prices this morning, stocks are holding steady. Traders have found some encouragement from positive earnings guidance from JC Penney and signs of an increase in merger and acquisition activity. Reports of a plan by Carl Icahn to unseat Yahoo's board of directors are rekindling speculation that the company may be more responsive to a takeover by Microsoft. CBS also announced that it was acquiring CNET. -- Our Newsletter is full of interesting and useful information that I think you will enjoy whether you are a buyer, seller, homeowner, or renter. This month's issue includes topics such as: "First Time Buyers' Dos And Don'ts"; "Taking The Real Estate Investment Plunge"; "Tax Rebate Uses For Buyers"; "Review The Landscape Before You Buy Or Sell"; "Housing Bills Will Help Homeowners And Economy".