At least there is a system in place for this regenerative process that ebbs and flows annually. Among a high percentage of Americans is a common resolution. . . INCREASE MY INCOME!

So while some contemplate taking on a second job and others muster up the courage to ask for a well- deserved - or undeserved - raise, active investors know that using your dollars in the market can determine whether you retire at 40 or retire at all.

So with the New Year, let's look at the market with fresh eyes and scour the ticker for a good kick off into 2008!

Put Your Money Where The Money Is

First on the blackboard this morning is an industry that no one can claim is lagging. As global demand for coal skyrockets to unprecedented levels, the search for capable domestic suppliers is on. And with many analysts stating firmly that the stocks of many leading US players have reached their peaks, now may be a great time to weigh the pros and cons of investing in emerging, domestic coal plays.

Quest - A Growing Coal Company

A new name and speculative idea in the coal sector - Quest Minerals & Mining Corp. (OTCBB: QMNM). Based in Kentucky - a top 3 coal producing state - QMNM owns and pursues coal-related properties in the Southeast region of the country. Quest is in the news today regarding their intent on a joint venture with Powell Branch Energy coal properties in southern Kentucky.

According to today's release the project would encompass 1,400,000 tons of proven coal reserves. By today's account, that would equate to more than $70,000,000. For a company trading at under a penny, with minimal historical revenues, the implications of such a deal are enormous.

Who Will Profit From the Upcoming Coal Rush?

Coming out of what one analyst referred to as "one of the most prolific periods ever in the coal industry" during 2007, many investors are chomping at the bit to get in on the action in '08. But not so fast, despite surging international demand, some questions remain regarding who will profit most from the world's growing hunger for coal.

As mentioned previously, on Wednesday, Merrill analyst David Lipschitz cut shares of Peabody Energy Corp. and Consol Energy Inc. to "Neutral" from "Buy," due to the belief that the stocks are trading close to their peaks. So, while the coal company's themselves may cash in on their reserves during 2008, it may prove quite tricky for investors to find a good entry point and make a few bucks on their success.

Just the Tip of the Coal Iceberg

On the other hand, a smaller regional player like QMNM with an opportunity for 30,000 tons of coal per month from just one venture at its door step could, in theory, have a long way to go before it hits a peak from a market perspective.

With oil and natural gas reserves being depleted at a record rate and costs associated with both natural resources hitting new highs - seemingly by the day - coal is increasingly relied upon and will continue to be, at least over the near term, to fuel our lives. This holds especially true in regions outside of the U.S.

Emphasizing this fact, Calyon Securities analyst Gordon Howald recently stated that China and India represented 20 percent of total global coal consumption in 1980, and are expected to account for 60 percent by 2030. He also predicts that rising international demand will ultimately result in a shortfall of US supplies of steam coal and a subsequent surge in prices.

This could all be extremely positive for Quest Minerals & Mining Corp. (OTCBB: QMNM) if they are indeed able to make good on their recent letter of intent and continue on with plans to aggressively pursue opportunities with proven coal bearing projects.

So while people around you are looking for the next get rich quick scheme or trying to win the lottery, we sincerely hope that this year you lay the foundation for a future that does not lose steam in spring but that builds your portfolio, your experience and your retirement fund!