Around the holidays, the thoughtful gift giver understandably wants to find something unique for each person on his or her list. Consumer researchers say you probably shouldn’t bother.
Personal Finance
This Man Wants to Lower Your Mortgage Payment
The Federal Housing Finance Authority — overseer of housing giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac — finally got a new Director when North Carolina Congressman Mel Watt was confirmed to the post by the Senate yesterday. The move was …
The Unlikely Secret to a Happy Retirement
Almost everyone aspires to travel in retirement and almost no one factors the expense into their plans. This is one of retirees’ biggest regrets, and it shuts them off from valuable health benefits.
Access to Basic Banking Is a Crisis for 40 Million Americans
Some 2.5 billion people have no access to basic financial products like insurance and credit cards. Fixing that would fix a lot of the world’s poverty problems.
4 Smartest Money-Making Stocking Stuffers
Stumped for a meaningful holiday gift for the kids or grandkids? These presents give for a lifetime.
The Ridiculous ‘Exclusive’ Gift Consumers Are Clamoring to Buy
Today only, you have the chance to pay $50 for the privilege of spending another $400 at Starbucks. But only if you act fast!
Why Politicians Keep Jacking Up Taxes on Travelers
Politicians are addicted to taxes that they swear aren’t really taxes—not ones paid by locals anyway.
The Evolving 401(k): Fees are Down; the Match is Up
Take another look at your 401(k) plan. Some important changes have been put in place and may deserve your consideration.
5 Ways a Few Hundred Dollars Will Change Your Life
Holiday spending is down. Good. Here are five ways to spend on your future before you give in to the Santa impulse.
How the Banks Are Winning Now
For the first time, a report quantifies what we’re up against in the effort to equip ordinary people with the ability to deal with banks.
Helping Your Family Doesn’t Have to Mean You Can’t Retire
More than 60% of people past the age of 50 provide financial support to an adult family member. Almost no one plans for it.
How to get Professional Advice in a 401(k) Plan
The venerable 401(k) plan has taken a lot of hits in recent years. Yet some flaws have been corrected while others are being addressed. You may not appreciate the way this retirement stalwart has evolved over three decades—or …