Oracle of Pennsylvania Avenue Speaks

Carlyle Group co-founder David Rubenstein mentioned the coming "mother of all stimulus packages" on October 25, long before the media posited such a thing for public consideration. He offered his prediction on Alaskan Public Radio.

The Oracle of 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue delivered again, at the National Press Club. He sees Washington becoming the corporate power center and good times for lobbyists and consultants. Rubenstein also foresees:

1. Unemployment over 10%
2. Recession for another year
3. Hedge funds will lose value
4. Private equity will remain hampered due to lack of leverage
5. Financial engines have dramatically changed & will take years to return
6. Deepest recession since Great Depression
7. President elect Obama will deliver a $1 trillion stimulus package

He didn't say anything about his favorite strategy, buying affiliate debt for pennies on the dollar. Nor did he mention taking credit default swaps on bankrupt holdings. Carlyle has a way to make money in the current difficult environment. They have 30% annual returns to generate.