The FINRA 2012 National Financial Capability study results are due out soon and likely will show no improvement in individuals’ money management skills. With so much energy being put into financial education, poor test results embolden critics and threaten a movement.
Financial Planning
Car? House? Sorry: Graduates of 2013 Are Each $35,200 in Debt
Student debt is creating the most debt-ridden twentysomethings in modern history, and we’re all going to pay a price. Here’s the best advice from new grads.
Viewpoint: ‘Chained’ CPI for Social Security Calculations Robs Retirees
The proposed ‘chained’ inflation index would cut Social Security increases even though a realistic index of elder inflation would push benefits higher. Can we just tell the truth?
The New Retirement: Forget Being Rich, All We Want Is Peace of Mind
Four years after the recession ended we are still getting signals that our values have changed–at least partly of necessity.
BlackRock’s Fink: Put it All in Stocks
Among other controversial ideas, BlackRock CEO Laurence Fink said long-term bonds had become so risky that young people should be 100% in stocks.
Mandatory Savings Accounts Are Coming Your Way
As the retirement savings crisis deepens, the call for forced savings grows louder. We are headed for something like Australia’s “superannuation” model–with the possibility of one big change: employee contributions.
Kodak to Pay Retired Workers in Film (and Other Adventures in Creative Pension Funding)
Kodak becomes the latest company to make a noncash pension contribution. Can hard assets like cheese, whiskey and beer really secure our retirement benefits?
10 Steps to Spring Clean Your Finances
When it comes to spring cleaning, you probably haul the junk out of your garage, scrub your fridge, and wash the rugs and drapes. But don’t forget about your personal finances. Just after tax season is the perfect time to perform …
Safe Bet? Central Banks Suddenly Start Buying Stocks
Even central banks are buying stocks, chasing better returns in this low-rate environment. Should you join them?
How to Tame the Rising Cost of Prom Season
Americans generally remain frugal in the aftermath of the Great Recession. But prom night appears invulnerable to austerity. Here’s what you can do about it.
Retirement Gamble: Frontline’s Powerful Case for Taking Control of Your Financial Future
As if you needed reminding, the last dozen years have exposed the 401(k) as a deeply flawed primary retirement savings mechanism. A PBS special takes you through the gory details.
How a Few Text Messages a Month Can Secure Your Retirement
Reminders are effective when it comes to reaching savings goals, and now you can sign up for regular helpful advice via text and get a shot at $500 to boot.
