The word refers to large jewelry, such as platinum chains and diamond rings that rappers and athletes sport. However, word could also perfectly describe nature of stock market in late 1990s. Moreover, it is perfect way to describe pay packages of CEOs, and lest not forget that house that former CFO of WorldCom is building in Boca Raton. Although it is obvious that editors at OED are becoming hipper, they’re still a little slow on latest in urban vernacular. In this case, it is probably a blessing. According to Financial Times, a writer from Houston recently stated, "The Bling-bling era is over". It better be, as far as individual investors are concerned. In fact, bling-bling era has temporarily been replaced by but-but era. Or in some cases butt-butt era. The latter refers to how many investors feel after being taken advantage of by entire system, or to expression on faces of those that continue to take 5th during congressional hearings.

In meantime, Bush administration spends a lot of time saying "but-but". The drubbing of stocks was clearest message people have sent since Boston Tea party. Moreover, it wasn’t just Americans that were voicing their dissatisfaction with President’s address concerning confidence crisis. When those safe haven stocks began to tumble during week, one had to know that it represented a lot of foreign investment. As Ross Perot would have said, that was a big sucking sound. (By way, didn’t he get in trouble this week?) Yes, foreigners are taking their money out of market just as fast as US investors, who withdrew about $20 billion from funds last week. It is interesting that much hasn’t been made of simple fact that market can’t go higher if there is more money going out as there is coming in. Anyway, I think Bush will come back with a more definitive plan that goes beyond punishment and maybe focuses on prevention. I know that GOP thinks that those dynamics are one and same, but in certain situations they’re not.

The spectrum is such that those that have nothing to lose, and see no other way, aren’t going to be swayed by prison terms or other forms of punishment. Sharing this space are those that are either so inherently criminal, that it is part of their being to break law and those that are so blinded by greed that any risk is worth reward. In their zeal to achieve bling-bling status, there is nothing that can stop them. They break every rule in game. So, it stands to reason that these same people would first manipulate rules, bending, twisting and corrupting them.

There, ladies and gentlemen, is where President has to focus his next address on topic. After all, when it comes to those in this country that see no other way, rules are extremely precise. If a 19 year-old kid from ghetto can get 10-years in prison for selling $20.00 worth of crack then that person knows risk when he/she hits street corner. (A discussion on fairness of this type of sentencing could go on forever. I do find it shocking that type of fraud that results in people losing their entire life savings only has a maximum term of five years. The but-but crowd has never seen anything unfair about such inequitable punishment, but may begin to backfire on them.)

Why do people not achieve financial success?

Reason One: Lack of knowledge: or more specifically, a lack of desire to gain knowledge. Make effort to read about financial matters and you will learn. Many people don't know where to go for unbiased advice so they do nothing.

Reason Two: Failure to set plans. Did you know that only 5 percent of population sets goals and only 2 percent has any form of written goals? Their actions have a sense of purpose: they are results oriented, they are motivated, they are positive. They are life's winners. Without a plan, it is easy to drift aimlessly, and live from day to day. If you set goals, you will know what you want to achieve.

Reason Three: Inefficient use of time and poor work habits. Time is like money - you can spend it or invest it in building a better you by self-development. When you waste time, you are wasting yourself. Plan your day - what do you really want to achieve today?

Reason Four: Lack of foresight. Achievers can look beyond immediate and into future. Although some may see your visions as dreams, do not forget that you have to have a dream to make a dream come true. Unless you are fortunate enough to be left a legacy, only money you will ever have working for you is what you save and invest. People with vision can multiply their income by investing in growth investments. Work for your money, then make your money work for you.

Reason Five: The need to conform. Dare to be different! Don't be afraid to take calculated risks. The people who make big money are ones who do opposite of what everyone else does - sell when everyone else buys, and vice versa.