Sloan Reviews the Blackstone IPO Filing

More than ever, experienced insiders are scooping news organizations

(NEWSER) - Many high finance blogs just “stink,” David Weidner writes, but discerning “Wall Street junkies” can depend on a few that engage top talent and often scoop major news organizations. He runs down 10 of the best news and analysis sites in the Wall Street Journal , “skipping the stockpickers or pure investing sites.”

• The Big Picture: Fund manager Barry Ritholz's site is "beautiful," "updated frequently," "written in plain English," and counts Nouriel Roubini and the Fed as readers.

Bill passes 223-202, with Senate to act next year

(AP) - The House today passed a sweeping overhaul of financial regulations that would govern Wall Street and reconfigure the power of the agencies overseeing the banking system. The vote was 223-202, with nearly all Republicans in opposition because of fears over too much government intrusion. The bill is designed to address the shortfalls that led to last year's calamitous financial meltdown. More»

Still, president reminds finance industry, 'we're in this together'

(NEWSER) - At a fundraising dinner tonight in New York attended by (among others) the sorts of financial types who could afford the $30,400-per-couple entry fee, President Obama wagged a finger at Wall Street. “I would ask that you join us in passing what are necessary reforms,” he said in addressing the interested parties. “Don’t fight them.” More»

Flatlining economy threatens breakthrough medical research

(NEWSER) - For the first time in years, the biotech industry is in desperate need of a lifeline, Bloomberg reports, as the economic crisis threatens to shove companies into bankruptcy and derail the development of potentially life-saving drugs. “I’m looking down the barrel of a gun,” admitted one CEO. Five such companies declared bankruptcy in the past month, and industry fundraising has dipped 54%. More»

Hollywood takes a cynical approach to bankers

(NEWSER) - Wall Street executives have it tough these days, but Hollywood has rarely gone easy on guys in suits. USA Today lists 10 definitive films about them:

• Stagecoach (1939): Like all John Ford movies, this one makes a banker look bad.
• Splendor in the Grass (1961): A 1930s investor doesn't just get depressed—he takes it out the window.
• American Madness (1932): A bank man takes a rare turn as the nice guy, battling his board over loan policies.