Should the U.S. sell off its gold reserves to pay down debt? That’s the latest idea being tossed around by gold bug Ron Paul. Not only would selling Old Yeller help the U.S. pay its bills, says libertarian Paul, but it would put more gold in the hands of the American people and pull back the reins on the Federal Reserve, which is …
How to Save $500 Worth of Energy This Summer
Every year, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics looks at data from millions of households to create a profile of the average U.S. consumer. The annual Consumer Expenditure Survey contains lots of fun facts. For instance, in 2009 …
Can French Banks Save the Eurozone?
The French today came out with a proposal to save Greece and the eurozone. French banks, which hold roughly $21 billion in Greek sovereign debt, have agreed to roll over a big chunk of their Greek government bond holdings for 30 years to keep markets happy and avoid a Greek default. But the key to that plan is getting all the other …
“It’s an example of the worst type of financial company that exists to completely screw over their customers with outrageous fees, deceptive benefits, and absurd teaser rates.”
The Porsche as Smart Investment for Single Guy on the Make
A new study indicates that driving a Porsche or engaging in otherwise flashy spending can serve a dual purpose. First, it successfully attracts women. Second, it gives off the distinct impression to women that the owners of such …
It’s a Deal: Save Up to 75% (or More) at Levi’s
During Levi’s semi-annual sale, men’s, women’s juniors, and kids and baby merchandise is being discounted by up to 75% off. And, through July 6, you can use the promotional code EXTRA30 to get an extra 30% off. Shipping is free for purchases of $50 and up.
Is Dodd-Frank Reviving the Shadow Banks?
They’re back.
In the past few months, it appears, shadow banks (financial firms that make loans but aren’t actual banks) seem to be making a comeback. In case you’ve forgotten about these things already, shadow banks are like …
Why You Should Still Go to College
Over the past year or so, the idea of going to college has been under attack. Paypal co-founder Peter Thiel has been encouraging people to skip college, and my buddy James Altucher has been making the media rounds touting the idea of skipping college.
How Debit Card Swipe Fee Changes Will Cost You
The banks have lost the swipe fee battle, and soon it’s expected that every time a debit card is used, the store where that card is swiped will collect a little more money, and the institution issuing that card will collect a …
The Optimism Deficit
In the nearly 15 years that I’ve been writing about markets and managing money, there’s been a dramatic shift that has gotten only marginal notice. We’ve gone from having an optimism surplus to an optimism deficit. That may …
Running Away from Treasuries
If, as some are saying, the long-term safety of U.S. Treasury bonds can no longer be counted on, the rules of investing will need to be rewritten.
Can a Credit Blemish Keep You From Landing a Job?
If you're looking for a job or thinking about changing employers, don't neglect to review a document almost as important as your resume: your credit report.