My 12 Predictions For 2009

Since everyone and their mother is coming out with predictions for 2009, I thought I would weigh in with my own set of predictions. I do not profess to be an expert in anything under the sun. But I do pride myself on knowing a little something about everything in order to live a productive and fulfilling life. So here goes:

1. I'll start off with something that I think is not likely to happen. Microsoft will not make a move for Yahoo! in any capacity.

2. Expedia and Priceline will attempt to merge but there maybe anti-trust issues raised.

3. Yahoo! and eBay will explore ways to cooperate or work together. Could lead to a merger down the road.

4. The U.S. dollar will crash mid-year.

5. Inflation will become an issue once again.

6. The market will run-up into the Obama stimulus package but will then correct by 20%.

7. AOL remains independent, i.e., no buyer surfaces.

8. Bankrate will be purchased by a traditional media company. Tom - get out while the going is good.

9. Several large retailers will file for bankruptcy as well as a few major financial institutions.

10. Google may look to buy what's left of Sun Microsystems.

11. There will be several major oil field discoveries around the globe, particularly Eastern Europe and Asia.

12. The New York Knicks makes a play for Lebron James.