I’m often asked what I’d do to improve financial literacy in the United States. The premise seems to be that if we teach young people about compound interest and two-cycle billing, this information will lead them to make better financial choices. I’m not convinced.
Economics & Policy
The Real Reason We Love Some Brand Logos — And Hate Others
Wendy’s recently rolled out a new logo in the hopes of updating the company’s image and giving the brand a bit of a facelift. But sometimes the desire for a little nip and tuck can backfire.
Selling Your House? Choose Your Words Carefully
Certain phrases pop up again and again in real estate listings, and these keywords offer a good indication of the prices a property will command. A listing promising a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” for instance, has an …
What Happens When the Fed Really Does Run Out of Ammunition?
The Fed has no good choices. If easy money ends, the economy will slow even more. But continuing the policy risks inflation
6 Weird New Taxes You Might Have to Pay (If You’re Not Already)
Why is it that government officials seem inspired to reach the heights of creativity coming up with new taxes? Who knows. But their efforts could mean you’ll be paying new taxes on everything from bicycles to bowling, 2-by-4s to marijuana.
Is the World on the Brink of a Currency War?
Economic policies that look like the start of a trade war are really aimed at addressing domestic economic problems.
Why Being a Quitter Is a Good Sign for the Economy
You only quit a job when you’re confident you can find something better. And in December, more Americans since the start of the recession felt good enough to pack up their desk and look for employment elsewhere.
How to Master the Allowance Question and Prepaid Cards in One Shot
Virtual family banking site FamZoo has introduced a prepaid card that actually makes sense–for kids and parents.
Bold New Rule: Students in the U.K. Must Study Personal Finance
Dozens of countries, including the U.S., are searching for ways to raise the financial I.Q. of their citizens. But only a handful have taken the bold step of making personal finance a high school requirement. Here’s why the U.S. needs to move faster.
Lessons in Socialism: How Cuba Can Become Relevant Again
An entrepreneurial wave is emerging in Havana that, along with immigration reform in the U.S., is giving Cuba renewed relevance while giving Americans a close look at the dangers of extreme wealth redistribution.
Bank Robbers Going the Way of Blacksmiths?
Perhaps there really is no such thing as easy money. Based on declining bank robbery statistics, criminals seem to be realizing that it’s hard to make a living by following in the footsteps of Bonnie and Clyde.
Has the Banking Industry Really Been Fixed?
The banking sector still faces big challenges, but greater transparency will boost investor confidence and also encourage banks to manage risk better internally.
