MA has no credit exposure. It is essentially a transaction processor, with a worldwide reach. MA has enormous scope to grow it's business in emerging markets, esp. the two jumbos, India and China. With the Olympics coming up in 2008, I fully expect MA to do rip-roaring business.

The imminent breakup of Altria, combined with a large, anticipated stock buyback, make this a core holding.

ACAS recently reiterated their intention of paying out $4.19 in dividends in 2008. In addition, there's the sizeable stock buyback.

TDF is a closed end fund, investing in securities of Chinese companies. This has been a core holding for me for several years. Oh yes, it's managed by Mark Mobius.

There's been volumes written about this one. I expect this company to continue generating large amounts of cash as far as I can see. I expect them to continue to innovate. Check out Google Apps.

Record volumes in the US as well as Europe, per recent news. Now they've bought the Amex, with a view to increasing the options' volume, which is more lucrative.

At least through 2008, I don't see Asian demand for copper abating. Plush, it pays a very handsome dividend.

Knightsbridge Tankers is a rarity among crude oil carriers. It owns only VLCCs (hence the ticker symbol) and sports an excellent dividend.