Why Stock Buybacks Are a Warning Sign for Smart Investors

Last year saw a surge in stock repurchases — companies like ExxonMobil, Walmart and Microsoft bought back shares at record levels. Buybacks can be seen as a cash giveaway to investors, and they boost earnings per share. But th…

What’s Behind the Share-Buyback Binge?

Companies that have piled up cash over the past few years are finding one good use for it: Repurchasing their own shares. January alone saw $57 billion in buybacks, compared with $357 billion for all of 2010. While buybacks don…