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ETFs and even some market sectors can offer safety in the gathering market storm. The goal is to find stability that pays dividends.
Posted: February 22, 2012, 6:37 pm
Disappointing earnings pull the discount retailer's shares off a three-year high, but now is not the time to abandon the defensive play.
Posted: February 22, 2012, 6:21 pm
The rules can be confusing, so it's important to understand what you're allowed to do, and when, to maximize your retirement savings.
Posted: February 22, 2012, 3:38 pm
A study of 54 nations found a connection between progressive taxation and citizens' happiness. Good news for those who favor a tax system where the wealthy pay more.
Posted: February 22, 2012, 3:26 pm
Men could learn a little something from women looking to get a new set of wheels, consumer advocates say. Here's how the sexes shop differently.
Posted: February 22, 2012, 3:19 pm
The current climate is unlike anything most investors have seen before. But there are similarities to the period after World War II.
Posted: February 21, 2012, 7:54 pm
RFID credit cards offer convenience, but they're not entirely safe from identity thieves. Here's where you may be vulnerable.
Posted: February 21, 2012, 6:03 pm
There are now 2.7 million more poor households in the suburbs than in cities, thanks to long-term trends that have accelerated in the current economic downturn.
Posted: February 21, 2012, 3:46 pm
The market has been less volatile than expected so far this year. But it could get a lot riskier in the months to come. Here's what to watch for.
Posted: February 20, 2012, 7:58 pm
States that voted Republican in the 2008 election are doing better than those that voted Democratic, according to a recent study that uses credit score data as a measure of household financial health.
Posted: February 20, 2012, 6:37 pm
What do businesses do right -- or wrong -- when they provide phone-based customer service? Research points to some of the reasons why customers come away either satisfied or frustrated.
Posted: February 20, 2012, 3:53 pm
In the current downturn, federal assistance has helped avert a spike in homelessness, but that tap is now running dry.
Posted: February 20, 2012, 3:35 pm
To markets yearning for good news, low rates and money printing have been just the ticket. Also: Will Apple's surge continue, or will it mark a market top?
Posted: February 17, 2012, 7:23 pm
Looking for a tax preparer to guide you through the IRS' income tax maze? Arm yourself with these questions -- and ask all of them -- before you settle on a tax pro.
Posted: February 17, 2012, 3:24 pm
The news that the Fed intends to keep interest rates low should extend the bond rally, but ETF investors will want to steer clear of broad-market funds.
Posted: February 17, 2012, 2:31 pm
For family trips, spring break offers numerous opportunities to save money on travel expenses, from fares to accommodations.
Posted: February 17, 2012, 2:25 pm
I'd bet right now on a Greek debt default sometime this year. Here's a look at who'll get hit hardest -- and how the damage could be limited.
Posted: February 16, 2012, 7:58 pm
From accountable care organizations to insurance rebate checks, changes are under way for both providers and consumers.
Posted: February 16, 2012, 6:58 pm
You may not yet be ready to think about what could happen when you file your taxes next year, but political uncertainty could mean big changes.
Posted: February 16, 2012, 6:17 pm
Cyberthieves steal information worth hundreds of millions of dollars that is bought and sold every year in a thriving underground.
Posted: February 16, 2012, 4:29 pm
A recent Insure.com survey sought customers' attitudes about their auto, home, health and life insurance companies, ranking those that gave the most satisfaction.
Posted: February 15, 2012, 6:49 pm
Stocks have been on a tear in 2012, but trading volume keeps falling. Here's why so many investors just don't want to play -- and a simple way to restore their trust.
Posted: February 15, 2012, 5:54 pm
You're not the only one worried about money these days. From euro debt to U.S. economic woes, here's what keeps 5 top pros up at night.
Posted: February 15, 2012, 5:44 pm
These tax-free programs, run by states, can be a good option for those who want to build up a college-savings account. But you need to know which ones are worth considering.
Posted: February 15, 2012, 5:33 pm
They are the nation's 2 biggest companies, as measured by market value. But which is more likely to make money for investors?
Posted: February 14, 2012, 7:19 pm
The Republican presidential contender owns some high-risk stocks -- fitting, since he's a long shot himself. But for the most part, his portfolio is as conservative as his candidacy.
Posted: February 14, 2012, 5:41 pm
Mitt Romney has been criticized for parking some of his fortune in Cayman Islands accounts, but he and other wealthy people aren’t really trying to duck taxes there.
Posted: February 14, 2012, 3:46 pm
You've lost your job, but you don't have to lose the life and health insurance coverage your employer provided -- if you take the right steps.
Posted: February 14, 2012, 3:01 pm
General Motors roared into 2012 on news it was again the world's No. 1 carmaker. Thursday's earnings report may tell investors whether it can stay there.
Posted: February 13, 2012, 7:57 pm
Under its new privacy policy, Google will be able to aggregate user information from all its products. Advertisers and searchers may benefit, but not everyone's welcoming the change.
Posted: February 13, 2012, 5:08 pm
For fans of equal-weight indexing, 'the market' is doing just fine -- and closing in on an all-time high.
Posted: February 10, 2012, 6:01 pm
Trust and money go hand in hand in a marriage, so lying about financial matters can seriously threaten the relationship. A recent poll identifies some common areas of dishonesty.
Posted: February 10, 2012, 1:38 pm
As the bond market shows initial signs of finally choking on the Fed's easy money policy, it's time to be vigilant. Plus: Why the upbeat jobs numbers aren't believable.
Posted: February 10, 2012, 1:28 pm
Most people know what it's like to take a loss because of a poor money decision -- even financial columnists. But at least we can tell you what we learned.
Posted: February 10, 2012, 12:54 pm
If the US market has you stumped, take a close look at Mexico and Canada. Some key stocks in those nations could gain whether the US economy perks up or not.
Posted: February 9, 2012, 7:29 pm
As President Obama struggles to right the US economy, Republicans point to the turnaround engineered by the Reagan White House to tout GOP remedies. Yet today’s economic situation is far more complicated.
Posted: February 9, 2012, 7:11 pm
Legalizing marijuana is associated with a drop in traffic fatalities, a study shows. But you can get a DUI and big penalties no matter how you become impaired.
Posted: February 9, 2012, 2:41 pm
Need information or help with a money matter? Chances are good you'll find what you need at one of these sites, which rank among the best on the Web.
Posted: February 8, 2012, 8:38 pm
You may have heard the nation is out of money. In fact, despite our fast-growing national debt, markets are eager to lend us money, cheap. But this won't last unless we act.
Posted: February 8, 2012, 7:20 pm
The market's chaos cowboys specialize in playing short-term stock moves based on long-term threats. Here's a look at 12 terrifying trends and investments that tap into them.
Posted: February 8, 2012, 2:16 pm
Seeking a mate doesn't come cheap, as singles in the dating scene well know. And once you tie the knot, the high expenditures continue. Here's a breakdown of all the costs.
Posted: February 7, 2012, 7:08 pm
New technology is rapidly boosting US domestic fuel production. Here are some the companies at the forefront of this expanding field.
Posted: February 7, 2012, 6:58 pm
The social-networking giant will hit the market at a high price -- perhaps too high. Here's a look what you should pay, the risks and the biggest wild card.
Posted: February 7, 2012, 6:54 pm
By the next decade, a quarter of drivers will be 65 or older, increasing road risks for everyone. Here's how to prepare yourself and the senior in your life.
Posted: February 7, 2012, 9:43 am
No, we're not running out of oil, as some predicted. But petroleum -- like some other commodities, including copper -- is getting more expensive to find and produce.
Posted: February 6, 2012, 7:57 pm
Most of us neglect our retirement plans, an approach that's bound to fail to help us achieve our retirement goals. Here's a strategy for starting to turn that around.
Posted: February 6, 2012, 3:04 pm
Retirees can face hefty taxation if they don't follow certain strategies when managing their money. Using these tactics will help lower the bill.
Posted: February 6, 2012, 9:59 am
If you're looking to make a new start, be sure you do it the right way. These moves could cause trouble.
Posted: February 6, 2012, 9:55 am
Mandatory-arbitration clauses are bad news for consumers who would otherwise take a company to court over a dispute. They're also a disturbing sign of growing corporate power.
Posted: February 3, 2012, 6:16 pm
New reports document how the consumer electronics giant's reliance on Asian suppliers -- particularly those in China -- has had devastating effects on factory workers there.
Posted: February 3, 2012, 5:15 pm
Irrational fears of deflation have wrought irrational monetary and economic policies. And that has us headed toward something truly scary.
Posted: February 3, 2012, 5:14 pm
A Social Security file with data on 95% of Americans who have died over the past 75 years can help with unclaimed benefits -- if life insurers choose to consult it.
Posted: February 3, 2012, 1:30 pm
Investors' lust for dividend stocks is driving up prices and making a simple 3% return harder to find. So I'm replacing 3 picks in my Dividend Income Portfolio.
Posted: February 2, 2012, 6:40 pm
New disclosure rules from the Labor Department should give employers an upper hand in negotiating better deals from retirement-plan providers.
Posted: February 2, 2012, 5:56 pm
Despite the risks, a lot of investors will want to buy in. Consider this guidance on finding the right time to purchase shares.
Posted: February 2, 2012, 4:30 pm
A new study by academic researchers indicates that people with lower credit scores tend to select immediate rewards instead of waiting for a larger reward later.
Posted: February 2, 2012, 2:55 pm
If you had planned to work until you were older, but a layoff threw a wrench into your plans, 3 questions can help you decide whether to take Social Security early.
Posted: February 2, 2012, 1:09 pm
Estimating how your retirement income will be taxed can be complicated and difficult, but it's important to know what this expense will be and how you might reduce it.
Posted: February 2, 2012, 9:32 am
There's a huge pit of private and public borrowing we have to work our way out of to really get the developed world's economy moving again. And budget-cutting won't do the job.
Posted: February 1, 2012, 6:04 pm
Your house and your investments have lost value, and now the sour economy is making it hard for young adults to become independent. What's a good parent to do?
Posted: February 1, 2012, 4:27 pm
The breakup of a marriage can result in financial complications, but there are ways to make sure your credit doesn't suffer.
Posted: February 1, 2012, 3:56 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: January 31, 2012, 8:38 pm
A reader wants to know why stores that pull credit scores when you apply for credit don't tell you what the number is -- and how the scores work in general.
Posted: January 31, 2012, 3:47 pm
The Federal Reserve last week promised to keep interest rates near zero for 3 more years. You know that hurts savers, but how is it likely to affect your portfolio?
Posted: January 30, 2012, 7:46 pm
The long, obtuse contracts we sign, user agreements we don't read and other tiny type siphon about $2,000 a year from the typical household. What's going on here?
Posted: January 30, 2012, 1:39 pm
Reliable, cash-rich companies with returns that handily beat the S&P 500 are what everyone wants right now. And these are flying under the radar screen.
Posted: January 30, 2012, 1:22 pm
Worldwide markets seem relieved that Europe's central bank is ready to paper over problems with the printing press. Also: Microsoft's results are well-received.
Posted: January 27, 2012, 7:14 pm
Investing in companies that regularly raise their payouts provides security in an uncertain market -- and means fatter returns ahead.
Posted: January 27, 2012, 12:20 pm
For all the talk of energy independence and with oil prices ready to spike higher, natural gas production is being cut. Here's why, and what it means for energy investors.
Posted: January 26, 2012, 5:39 pm
The libertarian Republican's call to 'end the Fed' and return to the gold standard is catching on in the GOP -- and it could shape the political year.
Posted: January 25, 2012, 7:50 pm
The Sunshine State is the epicenter of a lucrative business in staged accidents and dubious claims. Policyholders like you are paying to subsidize these scams.
Posted: January 25, 2012, 3:04 pm
You have more options than you might realize with health care bills. If you know how to cut down the original billed amount, you can save a great deal.
Posted: January 25, 2012, 1:12 pm
The plastic in your wallet may offer some protections that extend beyond what a merchant or manufacturer offers -- particularly if you carry a high-end card.
Posted: January 25, 2012, 12:43 pm
The electronics world is buzzing about the possibility of a TV set to match your iPod, iPhone and iPad. Here's what might be in the works -- and how it could affect your viewing habits and investments.
Posted: January 24, 2012, 7:44 pm
Higher-education costs may seem daunting, but federal tax breaks can ease the burden. Parents should consider all the options, from 529 and Coverdell plans to credits and deductions.
Posted: January 24, 2012, 5:56 pm
The axiom says when central banks provide stimulus, markets will rise, so investors should follow along. But this year, counting on central banks could cost you.
Posted: January 23, 2012, 8:04 pm
As the State of the Union address approaches, members of MSN Money's Facebook community offer comments on the issues that matter most to them.
Posted: January 23, 2012, 5:54 pm
There's not much room for interest rates to go lower, and making the right moves now could potentially save you big money.
Posted: January 23, 2012, 5:20 pm
The wealthy GOP presidential candidate is taking heat for his hedge fund work and his Cayman Island accounts. But his investment portfolio is mostly bland -- perhaps by design.
Posted: January 23, 2012, 3:08 pm
The Peltzman Effect may be debatable and hard to prove, but it points to a disturbing trend: Drivers who feel safer in their cars take greater risks. That can mean more crashes.
Posted: January 23, 2012, 9:54 am
Even as gold rebounds, gold miners remain second-class citizens. Meanwhile, semiconductor stocks show off their optimism, though it may be misguided.
Posted: January 20, 2012, 8:40 pm
Risk-averse investors are likely looking for reliable yields. For the near term, these dividend-paying stocks and funds should provide better returns than bonds.
Posted: January 20, 2012, 5:51 pm
Your insurance will spike when your youngster gets a license, no question. But your kid's grades, the type of car, driver training and other factors affect what you'll pay.
Posted: January 20, 2012, 10:27 am
You probably know you shouldn't, but what if the person asking is someone you love and trust? Here are 5 things to consider. Plus: Alternatives to co-signing.
Posted: January 20, 2012, 10:22 am
This is a market driven by happy thoughts as bears turn bullish and investors who've been betting against stocks turn positive.
Posted: January 19, 2012, 7:45 pm
As grocery prices go up and restaurants struggle to hold the line on menu prices, dinner from the kitchen isn't necessarily the most economical.
Posted: January 19, 2012, 6:45 pm
These plans resemble their more familiar 401k relatives, but the differences can provide employers more flexibility.
Posted: January 19, 2012, 1:44 pm
Children can be a boon at tax time, offering a variety of ways to reduce what you owe. Here's how taxpaying parents can benefit.
Posted: January 19, 2012, 1:28 pm
Opportunities abound for retirees who, by choice or by need, seek to keep those paychecks coming. Here are some of the smartest avenues to explore.
Posted: January 18, 2012, 5:54 pm
Despite recent upswings, 2012 is shaping up to be another lousy year for the global economy and financial markets. But here's why I'm optimistic long term.
Posted: January 18, 2012, 5:15 pm
A new prepaid debit card is being offered by Suze Orman in an attempt to change credit scoring, but don't count on that. You can improve your credit in other ways.
Posted: January 18, 2012, 2:53 pm
You can get gift cards without spending a nickel, as long as you have some free time and you know where to look online. The points you earn can add up to real rewards.
Posted: January 18, 2012, 2:29 pm
A reader asks how to move a retirement-savings balance into a new employer's plan while avoiding potential losses in a volatile market.
Posted: January 17, 2012, 7:50 pm
New Apple chief Tim Cook took some heat for taking $378 million in stock, compared with Steve Jobs' fabled $1 a year salary. But how much compensation do dollar CEOs really get?
Posted: January 17, 2012, 7:39 pm
If you're paying for a life you have only sometimes, you're stealing from your most-of-the-time life. And breaking that habit can make you a whole lot happier.
Posted: January 17, 2012, 7:22 pm
Members of this rare class of savers -- just 0.2% of 401k owners -- don't necessarily have higher salaries or the investing IQs of Warren Buffett, advisers say.
Posted: January 17, 2012, 5:00 pm
Just when you think Europe has found a way out of its mess, a new twist emerges to derail the repairs. S&P's debt downgrades are the latest example.
Posted: January 16, 2012, 8:07 pm
The global street economy may be the world's second biggest, after the United States, and it employs half the planet's workers. Investors can play the system for profit.
Posted: January 16, 2012, 7:57 pm
Even after death, debts need to be paid, and how that's done can be a complicated affair, depending on the deceased's estate.
Posted: January 16, 2012, 7:40 pm
Leaving the workforce doesn't have to be an abrupt, all-or-nothing proposition. Here's how to make the transition gradually.
Posted: January 16, 2012, 3:18 pm
There's no easy way to escape from your college loans, but for most people, options such as repayment and forgiveness plans do exist. The point is to avoid defaulting.
Posted: January 16, 2012, 3:12 pm
Some hedge funds now offer 'mirror funds' to take advantage of tax laws that permit investors to collect significantly higher after-tax returns.
Posted: January 13, 2012, 6:15 pm
Stocks are off to a bland start in 2012, but a tech stock and a precious metal should provide some welcome, positive relief.
Posted: January 13, 2012, 3:28 pm
You've seen the lists of top picks from the stock analysts on Wall Street, haven't you? Before you buy, take a look at what happened to last year's favorites.
Posted: January 12, 2012, 7:04 pm
Good relationships require open and honest communication between partners about money matters. These are some of the important subjects worth discussing.
Posted: January 12, 2012, 7:00 pm
After a bearish year, it's time to take a fresh look at my long-term Jubak Picks 50 portfolio -- and zero in on the stocks in it that are the best buys right now.
Posted: January 12, 2012, 6:54 pm
Retiring your house note early can be smart. Here are 6 strategies designed to help you get to the finish line ahead of schedule.
Posted: January 12, 2012, 1:26 pm
Experts say workers will need ever-larger nest eggs to retire. It's possible to save enough, but only with stocks and not without risk. Here's a look at the road that might lead to a big payoff.
Posted: January 12, 2012, 12:05 am
Everybody's stretched these days, but some colleges and universities are doing better than others at wringing the most value from education dollars.
Posted: January 11, 2012, 7:30 pm
You won't necessarily get the lowest price, and you'll still be purchasing the vehicle through a dealership. But if you prefer not to haggle, Costco's program has its advantages.
Posted: January 11, 2012, 7:25 pm
After a year in which the market edged up but most fund and ETF investors took a hit, hope can be hard to find. But analysts are optimistic.
Posted: January 10, 2012, 3:57 pm
The country as a whole has seen prices go south, but some cities have been hit harder than others. Here are some of those that have suffered most.
Posted: January 10, 2012, 2:12 pm
Paying off a home loan by the time you stop working can mean greater financial security. Whether you start early or later in life, there's more than one approach to consider.
Posted: January 10, 2012, 10:34 am
Like the doctor's fictional creature, China is being pulled 2 ways, toward a soft economic landing and something much worse. It's hard to know which way it will go.
Posted: January 9, 2012, 7:45 pm
Disappointing earnings and a falling stock price show the big-box retailer is in serious trouble. Here are some of the reasons.
Posted: January 9, 2012, 6:18 pm
Here's how you should deal with insurance -- or law enforcement -- if someone else's lousy parking job made it difficult or impossible for you to avoid an accident.
Posted: January 9, 2012, 6:05 pm
Those who are struggling financially should avoid several industries that aim to exploit them. Fortunately, they can do so by considering some alternatives.
Posted: January 6, 2012, 1:57 pm
These 8 steps can help ensure that your exit from this life goes as smoothly as possible for you and your family -- and that you get the send-off you want.
Posted: January 6, 2012, 12:45 pm
Markets enter 2012 with Europe's finances and inflation here at home still the big questions. Plus: There's reason to believe the recent gold correction may be waning.
Posted: January 6, 2012, 11:57 am
Forget the Iowa results or the prospects for a drawn-out GOP primary season. For an imminent election that could really rattle your stocks and the market, look to France.
Posted: January 5, 2012, 7:23 pm
If strong banks won't lend money, the private economy can't grow. And for all the money spent rescuing them, the big banks still aren't up to the task.
Posted: January 4, 2012, 4:41 pm
It's possible that filing for bankruptcy can actually increase the chances that you'll be able to stay in your home. Here's how it could work.
Posted: January 4, 2012, 2:51 pm
Because the wealthier have a higher overall tax rate, when they get a tax break, it's far more valuable for them than it is for the Average Joe.
Posted: January 4, 2012, 2:27 pm
Fundamentals appear in place for gold to resume its rally. If it does, shares of some -- but not all -- miners could be swept up in the move.
Posted: January 4, 2012, 12:03 pm
Those who shop online are a significantly different breed from traditional shoppers, a survey finds, and their use of technology includes mobile devices they take to the store.
Posted: January 4, 2012, 10:50 am
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: January 3, 2012, 8:29 pm
With the holiday spending over, you may need to find some inexpensive forms of entertainment in the coming months. For any taste or interest, there are plenty of options to consider.
Posted: January 3, 2012, 7:33 pm
Social Security recipients are finally getting a raise. Retirees -- and anyone planning to retire -- should also be aware of 10 other changes to expect in the new year.
Posted: January 3, 2012, 5:39 pm
Expectations are low, which could make for a surprisingly good year. From a sizable rally to the Facebook IPO, here are the happenings I'm looking for -- and how to get ready for them.
Posted: January 3, 2012, 3:44 pm
The squeeze is on in China's real-estate market, which means slow going for the near future. I still like China stocks, but I'm steering clear for now.
Posted: December 30, 2011, 6:02 pm
Sometimes a credit report can be hurt by financial moves that might seem harmless at first. Avoid them and you can protect your score from a downgrade.
Posted: December 30, 2011, 4:23 pm
The new year is a good time to review and adjust your retirement plan, and some changes this year can help you boost your savings.
Posted: December 30, 2011, 2:31 pm
Recent figures show that FICO scores are rising, a sign that more consumers are seeing their financial situations improve. Taking several steps can help you join them.
Posted: December 30, 2011, 1:08 pm
Alternatives are increasing, and retirement experts expect the trend to accelerate as the economy improves. Also: Some retirees are forming DIY communities.
Posted: December 29, 2011, 8:17 pm
Take a look at where your money goes now; some strategies that can add up to major cash are painless -- or nearly so.
Posted: December 29, 2011, 5:53 pm
From gyrating markets to anemic interest rates, it's been a financially stressful year. Here are 8 stories that had a lasting financial impact -- and what to do now.
Posted: December 29, 2011, 5:22 pm
If finalized, a key regulation in the Dodd-Frank Act would restrict risky bank trading so another financial-system crisis doesn't erupt. Consumers could see benefits as well.
Posted: December 29, 2011, 4:00 pm
After we're done wishing each other peace and prosperity, will Greece and austerity haunt our portfolios in the new year? Here's how to get ready.
Posted: December 28, 2011, 3:55 pm
Young employees are reacting unwisely to a volatile stock market that seems to have put their retirement savings in peril. Here’s what to do instead -- and why.
Posted: December 28, 2011, 3:30 pm
Your house is really not meant to be a last-minute tool to bail you out during your golden years. But all that equity can be hard to ignore.
Posted: December 28, 2011, 2:50 pm
You may not know their names, but some investing newsletter writers produce returns that many investors would envy. Here are the outlooks -- and favorite picks -- of 6 of the best.
Posted: December 27, 2011, 6:45 pm
The high price and low utility of a college education make it the wrong way to go, some experts argue. They say the new route involves defying some long-held conventions about how to get ahead.
Posted: December 27, 2011, 5:03 pm
You want to retire in the upcoming year but could use some guidance. Start with these 20 things to do and consider, from budgeting to insurance coverage.
Posted: December 23, 2011, 7:10 pm
The tents may have moved on, but Occupy Wall Street will be back with specific demands and a new strategy, in time for the 2012 elections. It's the voice of America's youth fearing a future that doesn't add up.
Posted: December 22, 2011, 8:07 pm
Fewer Americans are going to the dentist -- and the cost of care continues to rise for those who do. Meanwhile, dentists face financial pressures in a struggling and changing industry.
Posted: December 22, 2011, 7:55 pm
You may think the current response condemns the Continent to years of pain, austerity and weak growth. And you may be right. But get used to this scenario -- and discover what it means for the global economy.
Posted: December 22, 2011, 7:15 pm
Sell these widely held stocks before the New Year or you may regret it. Even a perennial winner like Amazon could be in trouble next year.
Posted: December 22, 2011, 6:02 pm
Sometimes your health insurer doesn't want to pay for a treatment because it thinks it won't help you. Don't give up; several options are available, including an appeal.
Posted: December 22, 2011, 1:10 pm
Sometimes things that seem like good ideas -- or harmless little indulgences -- can keep you from getting traction when you try to move ahead financially.
Posted: December 21, 2011, 7:30 pm
Stagnant growth and harsh austerity will result in social disorder and turbulent markets in 2012. Yet for nimble investors with patience and iron nerves, there's money to be made. Here's where you need to be.
Posted: December 21, 2011, 7:18 pm
Statistics show that men crash, speed and receive tickets more often than women. To insurers, it's obvious that men should pay higher rates.
Posted: December 21, 2011, 7:04 pm
Federal law bars any business that sells medical marijuana from taking tax deductions. And while a dispensary may be able to hurdle that barrier, criminal ones also await.
Posted: December 20, 2011, 8:03 pm
The search for safe havens pushed up gold prices in 2011, and they were held aloft by fears about inflation. But there are signs of a bubble.
Posted: December 20, 2011, 12:08 pm
Along with tidings of comfort and joy, the holidays bring a rush of opportunities to cut your 2011 taxes. Hint: Keep those receipts when you give to charities.
Posted: December 20, 2011, 10:24 am
We'll need to play defense in the first half and work on making most of our money in the second. So the best stocks come in two lists for those divergent goals.
Posted: December 19, 2011, 7:48 pm
Expectations don't always match reality, according to a recent poll that identified several potential areas of disappointment.
Posted: December 19, 2011, 3:55 pm
Washington has a long and storied history of secrets, misleading statements and broken promises. What to do? Take some advice from Ronald Reagan.
Posted: December 19, 2011, 3:04 pm
TheStreet asked economists, money pros and consumer advocates to grade the economic players' performance in 2011. A bunch of rabble-rousers scored best, but that's not saying much.
Posted: December 16, 2011, 8:38 pm
When it comes to outrageous fees imposed on consumers, these are some of the worst -- whether it's a charge for ending pay-TV service or a fee to deposit a lot of cash.
Posted: December 16, 2011, 6:01 pm
The psychodrama in Europe pits Germany against almost everyone else, but the eurozone's richest member may prove to be its own worst enemy, as stalling action could mean a continental collapse.
Posted: December 16, 2011, 3:00 pm
Amid high gas prices and all the calls for more drilling, you may be surprised to learn that the United States is now a net exporter of oil. Here's why -- and how investors can play this remarkable shift.
Posted: December 15, 2011, 9:10 pm
Many tax deductions and subsidies are set to expire this year or in 2012 unless Congress steps in to save them. Could any of these raise your tax bill?
Posted: December 15, 2011, 8:40 pm
That big, fat tax refund really means you've given the government an interest-free loan. It's far better to keep the money you earned in the first place.
Posted: December 15, 2011, 12:42 am
Some people still call them loopholes. But Congress created tax shelters for economic reasons -- so using them allows you to further a legitimate national goal.
Posted: December 15, 2011, 12:33 am
Strict austerity from governments, especially in Europe, is making harsh economic realities even worse. History tells us that when this happens, social disorder follows.
Posted: December 14, 2011, 6:48 pm
They make for popular holiday presents, but you want to ensure that you take full advantage of them. For both givers and recipients, these guidelines can help.
Posted: December 14, 2011, 6:14 pm
If you can't afford to hire a lawyer or pay the bankruptcy filing fee, consider some options so you still get creditor relief and protect yourself from property loss.
Posted: December 14, 2011, 12:51 pm
Some people can get away with doing it themselves. Other folks need professional help. Here's how to tell which group you belong to -- plus a few tips for choosing the right preparer.
Posted: December 13, 2011, 8:52 pm
For one couple, retiring early so they could travel the world became possible after they followed a carefully laid-out plan. Here's how they did it.
Posted: December 13, 2011, 7:55 pm
It's the season to be wary of scammers who prey on consumers doing holiday shopping on their computers and smartphones. Watch out for these dozen security threats.
Posted: December 13, 2011, 7:33 pm
The sooner you get your money back from the IRS, the better, so start now. Get your taxes done faster and more accurately with these steps.
Posted: December 12, 2011, 11:15 pm
Face it: The tax fairies aren't going to file your tax return for you. Here's a step-by-step guide to finding and filing those tax forms you've been avoiding.
Posted: December 12, 2011, 10:23 pm
The next 6 months promise much economic uncertainty and pain for investors. Here's how to make it through and cash in during a much-improved second half.
Posted: December 12, 2011, 7:59 pm
In their campaign against drunken driving, safety advocates are focusing their efforts on ignition interlock devices, which make sure drunks can't start their cars.
Posted: December 12, 2011, 5:29 pm
If shacking up goes against your morals, you can blame Uncle Sam for tempting you to sin. Unmarried couples who live together often benefit under the tax code.
Posted: December 12, 2011, 11:22 am
After hints of accommodation, the European Central Bank does an about-face and talks tough on debt. What should we look for next?
Posted: December 9, 2011, 3:51 pm
Disposable account numbers have never really caught on, although some cardholders may like the extra security. Still, there are other ways to shop safely online.
Posted: December 9, 2011, 2:57 pm
To the eurozone mess -- which will spread -- add Russian unrest and a budget crunch in India. By midyear, we should know how it will all play out.
Posted: December 8, 2011, 8:34 pm
If you have funds tucked away, untouched, waiting for the day you need them, you might want to check on that. Here's how to protect your money -- or find it if it's 'lost.'
Posted: December 8, 2011, 4:16 pm
Even if the euro is somehow salvaged, Europe's economic bloc is downward-bound. And with the world's finances now so intertwined, that fall will be also felt here and elsewhere.
Posted: December 7, 2011, 3:41 pm
The eurozone's woes may seem distant, but they will likely make money more expensive, slow economic growth and deepen our pessimism about the future.
Posted: December 6, 2011, 8:16 pm
A carefully chosen personal-finance book can make an ideal Christmas gift. Here, some financial experts recommend their favorites.
Posted: December 6, 2011, 1:02 pm
Keeping a level head is essential if you're going to succeed in the stock market. These tips can help you avoid common mistakes.
Posted: December 6, 2011, 12:04 pm
Editors for MSN in Europe recently took an in-depth, country-by-country look at how the eurozone's debt woes are affecting people on the ground, in their everyday lives. We start with the United Kingdom.
Posted: December 5, 2011, 7:37 pm
When it comes to bad financial guidance, these stories from average Americans are hard to top. But they offer valuable lessons on what not to do, financial planners say.
Posted: December 5, 2011, 5:06 pm
As the population ages, financial crimes against the elderly are expected to grow. Think it can't happen to you? Experts disagree -- and offer tips to keep safe.
Posted: December 5, 2011, 11:08 am
With the right approach, you can significantly improve your credit card situation. But to get the best deals, you'll have to ask.
Posted: December 5, 2011, 10:45 am
If the protesters had wanted to hit the banks where it hurts, they could have given them a dose of their own medicine.
Posted: December 2, 2011, 7:50 pm
Prepare for a financial party as central banks print still more money to try to keep economies afloat. But this should be the end of the money-printing era, as we will soon have to deal with the consequences.
Posted: December 2, 2011, 7:22 pm
The very rich may indeed be different from you and me, if we lack some fundamental understanding of money and how to manage it. Here's what we can learn from them.
Posted: December 2, 2011, 12:38 pm
The economy has dented your car's value, at least in the eyes of insurers. Here's why, despite fewer serious wrecks, more cars are being declared a total loss.
Posted: December 2, 2011, 10:20 am
Efforts to slow the Asian giant's boom are likely to have a tremendous impact on luxury-goods makers. And there are plenty of reasons for investors to be nervous.
Posted: December 1, 2011, 6:22 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: November 30, 2011, 8:27 pm
Yes, stocks just had a big up day. But growing debts and tighter budgets here at home and in Europe are leading us toward a new recession and a prolonged downturn. In fact, we may already be there.
Posted: November 30, 2011, 6:15 pm
Credit cards can tempt you to overspend, no question. But the right cards, used the right ways, can also help you stretch your buying power.
Posted: November 30, 2011, 10:06 am
Bill Miller demonstrated great skill in beating the market for 15 consecutive years. But his story may end up being remembered as a cautionary tale.
Posted: November 30, 2011, 9:37 am
Researchers say obesity can often be blamed on a tight budget, not on moral weakness. But one particular skill can help you stay lean on little money.
Posted: November 30, 2011, 9:23 am
The trends of a struggling middle class and a happy high end will play out in retail stores over the holidays. So where should investors be spending their money?
Posted: November 29, 2011, 4:08 pm
Instead of returning your leased car when its term is up, you may be able to turn a profit by buying it back from the leasing company and selling it.
Posted: November 29, 2011, 3:25 pm
Scary financial news from across the Atlantic has many of us worried. But do you know exactly how it's likely to have an impact on your lifestyle and finances?
Posted: November 29, 2011, 9:54 am
Marketers know how to appeal to your emotions and hormones -- and can even create 'false memories' -- to make their products seem more desirable.
Posted: November 28, 2011, 5:13 pm
If you're seeking a professional for money-management advice, you need someone who will put your interests first. Knowing what advisers may not tell you can help with the selection.
Posted: November 28, 2011, 1:35 pm
Dividends are on the rise right now. And while consistent payers like Sysco always have some allure, investors should watch for big jumps like the ones at Corning and Union Pacific.
Posted: November 24, 2011, 7:27 pm
Shopping for the holidays doesn't have to mean a trip to the mall. Consider alternatives like local businesses or crafts fairs, where your chances of finding the perfect gift may be greater.
Posted: November 23, 2011, 1:16 pm
The recent market bearishness has knocked down stock prices, and now many of the companies coveted by value investors are suddenly affordable.
Posted: November 23, 2011, 1:00 pm
Stocks typically perform well in years when the White House incumbent is seeking another term. Often, the market's direction even predicts an election's outcome.
Posted: November 23, 2011, 9:10 am
The new head of the European Central Bank seems as reticent as other leaders, even as the crisis puts France and Germany at risk. It doesn't have to spread -- but will it?
Posted: November 22, 2011, 7:37 pm
Baby boomers in particular need to avoid unwise choices with their investments and other retirement savings. These 10 aren't worth the risk to your nest egg.
Posted: November 22, 2011, 5:59 pm
Interest rates are at practically zero, and nest eggs have been battered by the stock market. And so many seniors find themselves still working -- or looking for a job.
Posted: November 22, 2011, 5:49 pm
Security-seeking investors like Warren Buffett used to turn to the makers of necessities like toothpaste and soap. Here are 5 tech stocks that appear to offer safety now.
Posted: November 22, 2011, 2:55 pm
Whether you're buying online or trying to beat the rush at a brick-and-mortar store, follow what the pros do to snag the best bargains the day after Thanksgiving.
Posted: November 22, 2011, 1:31 pm
The chance of a year-end gift from the market always gives investors hope at this time of year. This year, though, the odds are slim. Here's why.
Posted: November 22, 2011, 1:05 pm
Baby boomers who've seen their savings decimated aren't so much looking forward to retirement as trying to postpone it. For those without jobs, it's especially hard.
Posted: November 21, 2011, 3:18 pm
If you are considering using friends or relatives as a bank of last resort, these 7 tips can help you protect the relationship.
Posted: November 21, 2011, 3:06 pm
More than a quarter of those in a long-term study fail to maintain the economic status of their parents, and the pain isn't spread evenly.
Posted: November 21, 2011, 11:07 am
A retirement plan can end up benefiting the company and its executives at the workers' expense, a new book argues. Take steps to protect what's in your 401k.
Posted: November 21, 2011, 10:05 am
Let your smartphone ring up savings this holiday shopping season. Here are 10 apps to help you find the right gift without emptying your wallet.
Posted: November 18, 2011, 12:36 pm
With risks running high, there aren't many safe places to invest your money right now. But large-cap gold miners look strong -- and here's why.
Posted: November 18, 2011, 12:20 pm
These 2 emerging markets have been outpacing the US market for a month -- that's a trend that could make you some money. Here's why it's almost time to buy in.
Posted: November 17, 2011, 6:41 pm
Will you lose your house and retirement savings? When will you be able to borrow money again? Get the facts on these questions and more.
Posted: November 17, 2011, 3:44 pm
The precious metal's allure is thousands of years old, but these days it's attracting a new breed of young investors who are leery of stocks.
Posted: November 17, 2011, 1:55 pm
A new marketing campaign highlights the difference between what mutual fund managers are selling and what investors think they’re buying.
Posted: November 17, 2011, 12:15 pm
We've seen politicians in Europe roil the market, and now the congressional supercommittee is running out of time. Will members make the hard decisions we need?
Posted: November 16, 2011, 6:37 pm
Not every holiday tradition is worth the money, and some richly deserve to be scuttled. Whether it's gift wrap or a Secret Santa gift exchange, here are some of the prime candidates.
Posted: November 16, 2011, 5:26 pm
Plenty has happened since 2006. MSN Money took to Facebook to ask readers if things are better or worse for them now, and to find out how they're managing in these tough times. Here are some of their comments.
Posted: November 15, 2011, 8:28 pm
Beaten up in the recession, Target borrowed from the giant's playbook with a strategy that adds groceries and loyalty cards to get customers into stores more often. So far, it looks like it's working.
Posted: November 15, 2011, 3:26 pm
The case for demolition is compelling, as long as the foreclosed home's location and condition justify taking it down. If a rehab is not worth it, bring on the bulldozers.
Posted: November 15, 2011, 11:26 am
Event data recorders inside vehicles gather information during an accident, which is then used for safety research. But there are concerns about that data being used for other purposes.
Posted: November 15, 2011, 9:23 am
Solar energy stocks are in for a cold spell, with production rising as demand falls. But the cost of solar power will eventually reach parity with other energy sources. The question is, of course, when.
Posted: November 14, 2011, 7:00 pm
Your money can grow without enriching bankers. Index funds are a low-cost investment option, while socially responsible funds can support executive-compensation reforms.
Posted: November 14, 2011, 1:48 pm
An insurer offers coverage for the jobless to supplement government benefits. For some, it could make sense as a way to survive unemployment.
Posted: November 14, 2011, 11:41 am
If you're expecting a pension, it could end up being a lot smaller than you've been counting on. Plus: Some ways to check on your employer's pension plan.
Posted: November 11, 2011, 3:54 pm
An increasing number of plans offer outside help, typically for a fee. But so far, only about 1 in 4 participants offered the expertise is buying in.
Posted: November 11, 2011, 2:50 pm
About half of our furry friends weigh too much, and their vet bills are likely to be hefty as well. Slimming down could extend your pet's life and save you money.
Posted: November 11, 2011, 2:40 pm
You don't have to break the bank when buying holiday presents. From rummage sales to online swap sites, options abound for the frugal gift-giver.
Posted: November 11, 2011, 2:18 pm
The psychodrama has shifted from Greece to Italy. As the powers that be struggle to contain the problem, they are just delaying the euro’s inevitable demise. Plus: Caught up in MF Global.
Posted: November 11, 2011, 1:39 pm
An 'illusion of skill' among investment professionals obscures luck's role in determining performance. But they still profit by manipulating clueless, irrational nonprofessionals -- us.
Posted: November 10, 2011, 6:52 pm
Group gift giving is a convenient way to share the costs of a big-ticket item and ensures that the recipient gets something he or she really wants.
Posted: November 10, 2011, 6:19 pm
The problem now roiling the market isn't that Italy is broke; it isn't. Its political leaders simply lack the will to act. And as they dither, other eurozone leaders seem ready to just call it over.
Posted: November 10, 2011, 3:11 pm
The safety net for people who don't otherwise qualify for public assistance is fraying as state budgets shrink. Experts say a growing underclass is the result.
Posted: November 9, 2011, 6:17 pm
Amid all the bad news and despite hard times for many, economic growth was stronger in the third quarter than most expected. Companies like IBM, Oracle and Starbucks help explain why.
Posted: November 9, 2011, 6:12 pm
Celebrating the holiday can be costly, unless you know how to keep the expenses under control. Here are some ways to host the day's festivities without spending excessively.
Posted: November 9, 2011, 1:00 pm
With Europe a mess and the US economy at risk, the Federal Reserve seems poised to announce a third round of stimulus. It could mean another rally.
Posted: November 8, 2011, 8:55 pm
If you love watching at home -- and can hardly contain yourself when you know the answers -- maybe you'd enjoy being a contestant. First, you'll have to be selected.
Posted: November 8, 2011, 6:14 pm
The people jumping up and down because they've just won a car or an all-expenses-paid vacation may not necessarily collect that prize, but a tax bill is certain.
Posted: November 8, 2011, 6:11 pm
Money managers are making moves to counter speedster traders that detect their 'buy' and 'sell' orders, then gain an advantage by jumping ahead of trades.
Posted: November 8, 2011, 3:59 pm
Amid the choppy markets, too many soon-to-be retirees have avoided making key decisions. Here's what to do -- right now.
Posted: November 8, 2011, 2:50 pm
Euro problems and the Greek mess keep stealing the spotlight, giving the Fed chief cover as events there help set the stage for more money-printing worldwide.
Posted: November 4, 2011, 7:57 pm
Twenty-somethings will need to save much more than their parents did for retirement. To do that, they'll need an early start -- and a game plan.
Posted: November 4, 2011, 6:08 pm
Couples and roommates can divide up living expenses in various ways, but if the method isn't working, you might need to try another approach. Just keep a few guidelines in mind.
Posted: November 4, 2011, 5:56 pm
A report identifies investment 'tail risks,' which have only a 10% chance of occurring but would do significant harm to investors who hadn't protected their portfolios.
Posted: November 4, 2011, 4:42 pm
No matter where you look, you're not likely to see much economic growth in the near future. Stocks like DuPont and Nestlé should help get us through the desert.
Posted: November 3, 2011, 7:39 pm
Higher education is expensive enough, but if you believe these 3 falsehoods about college, you could be making some costly mistakes.
Posted: November 3, 2011, 4:33 pm
Recent bubbles have been associated with boom times run amok. But hard times can also produce bubbles -- and there are clues about where we should be looking.
Posted: November 3, 2011, 12:25 pm
If you have an unblemished driving record and you drive a beater, how many hours would you have to toil -- for minimum wage -- to pay for bare-bones insurance?
Posted: November 2, 2011, 6:24 pm
After a strong October rally, stocks and the economy seemed poised for a typical Santa Claus rally into the new year. But a Grinch from Athens has put all that at risk.
Posted: November 2, 2011, 5:08 pm
Corporations often blame pension shortfalls on out-of-control factors such as the large number of retirees and anemic investment returns. But a new book suggests other possible causes.
Posted: November 2, 2011, 2:02 pm
Investors have punished the online retailer for investing in its future, making the stock look like a bargain. Particularly since projects like the Fire tablet are about to start paying off.
Posted: November 1, 2011, 7:28 pm
The convenience of paying at the pump may come with risks you hadn't considered. Here's how to protect yourself from thieves, or at least minimize the damage should you fall victim.
Posted: November 1, 2011, 4:13 pm
At a time when many thought they'd be close to retirement, many Americans in their 50s and 60s are finding that dream seems more distant than ever.
Posted: November 1, 2011, 11:00 am
The highly touted deal to solidify Greece's finances doesn't look so good in the naked light of day. It's short on details and long on optimistic assumptions.
Posted: October 31, 2011, 7:51 pm
The US and its northern neighbor offer a similar range of services to retirees, whether it's tax-advantaged investment plans or social insurance programs. But major differences exist.
Posted: October 31, 2011, 4:21 pm
The problem is much worse than mere messiness or disorganization, and too much clutter could cost you your homeowners policy.
Posted: October 31, 2011, 2:42 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: October 28, 2011, 9:09 pm
With its significant drawbacks, the service is not worth the money for most people. Besides, there are better, and cheaper, options if you need protection and want to reduce your risk.
Posted: October 28, 2011, 8:55 pm
While the world fixates on Europe, some U.S. states and cities are finding they, too, are overextended and underfunded. Also: Once again, gold is no bubble.
Posted: October 28, 2011, 7:13 pm
In the cold world of the Street, the 'smart' crowd preys upon the 'dumb' money. But professionals are prone to greed, overconfidence and a blind faith that it's different this time.
Posted: October 28, 2011, 7:07 pm
What if things never return to 'normal'? They might not, so you'll need contingency plans to handle the unexpected -- and if you don't need them, so much the better.
Posted: October 28, 2011, 7:03 pm
Monthly benefit checks have a big role in funding retirement -- they make up nearly 40% of retirement income. Still, the size of a typical check is smaller than you might think.
Posted: October 27, 2011, 6:45 pm
Congress last year enacted temporary changes that allow for a massive estate-tax break through a Roth IRA. As a result, a grandchild could pocket millions, tax-free, over a lifetime.
Posted: October 27, 2011, 6:43 pm
You may be itching to get in, but tread carefully. Events over the next couple of weeks, including the apparent debt deal in Europe, will offer clues about the market's direction.
Posted: October 27, 2011, 6:36 pm
The doomsayers are out in force, and we do have plenty to worry about. But just how likely are double-dip demons and creepy credit collapses?
Posted: October 26, 2011, 6:09 pm
College students have more alternatives now, such as used books, rentals and digital textbooks. But no option is perfect, making it difficult to find the right solution.
Posted: October 26, 2011, 6:04 pm
The site has scaled back its IPO in response to a weak stock market, executive exits and questions about its accounting and business model. But the debut may still be a tough sell.
Posted: October 26, 2011, 5:11 pm
Kiplinger has adjusted its criteria to reflect these trying times, but familiar names again rise to the top of the annual rankings.
Posted: October 26, 2011, 4:42 pm
It's not always about brand extension. These 6 small websites are pointing consumers to new strategies for buying, selling and trading merchandise.
Posted: October 25, 2011, 8:16 pm
A stolen wallet means you're subject to multiple threats, particularly credit card and identity theft. But taking the right steps and precautions can prevent or minimize your losses.
Posted: October 25, 2011, 8:09 pm
Consider these market zombies, companies that have basically been written off and now trade for less than the cash they have on hand. Yet some, like Hawaiian Airlines and Heelys, may have life left.
Posted: October 25, 2011, 7:53 pm
Sometimes, for safety's sake, a licensed teenager has no business being behind the wheel. In these circumstances, driving privileges may need to be limited or even revoked.
Posted: October 25, 2011, 7:33 pm
A report from inside the euro crisis says saving Greece will cost much more and take much longer than expected. Politically, that's not doable, making default likely.
Posted: October 24, 2011, 7:58 pm
Yes, you can be too careful. A traffic ticket for driving too slowly can ding your driving record and cost you more on auto insurance.
Posted: October 24, 2011, 7:51 pm
You may not necessarily be thinking of retirement when you celebrate a promotion, but maybe you should be. Plan -- and save -- now to avoid worry and want later.
Posted: October 24, 2011, 6:15 pm
For those who wish to avoid haggling on a dealership lot, car-buying services offer an alternative, if not always an ideal one. Still, some can have real advantages.
Posted: October 21, 2011, 9:48 pm
The possibilities of plastic are tempting, but the initial allure can turn quickly to debt despair. One finance writer owns up to her own time caught in the credit trap.
Posted: October 21, 2011, 8:31 pm
Europe remains stuck as it faces problems that only money printing will solve. And that 'solution' will only delay the day of reckoning.
Posted: October 21, 2011, 7:15 pm
As the costs of producing oil grow and the places to hunt for new reserves shrink, Big Oil is willing to pay more for oil and gas resources. Investors, take note.
Posted: October 20, 2011, 7:39 pm
Looking for a credit score boost? Credit repair companies use promises of this quick fix to woo people with lousy credit, but it may not help you at all.
Posted: October 20, 2011, 6:35 pm
Most of us recognize that there's a danger, but drivers with certain income and education levels have a greater tendency to text, eat or read behind the wheel.
Posted: October 20, 2011, 6:24 pm
An increasing number of European nations base the cost of a traffic ticket on some measure of the driver's income. But don't expect such progressive penalties to find a home in this country.
Posted: October 19, 2011, 9:25 pm
The anger is intense, and the big banks deserve much of the blame for the economic mess we're in. But the problems that bringing them down would cause are the last thing we need.
Posted: October 19, 2011, 6:52 pm
Anyone providing capital -- via investments in stocks, funds or retirement plans -- is getting a raw deal from the Street of Shame.
Posted: October 19, 2011, 6:10 pm
Your card's terms may be negotiable, so consider asking for changes like a lower interest rate or reduced fees. To be successful, though, you'll need to go about it the right way.
Posted: October 18, 2011, 7:53 pm
If you can look past the hippie overtones, what the protests are really saying is that we need good jobs, honest banks and fair-and-square politics. It’s hard to disagree with any of that.
Posted: October 18, 2011, 6:37 pm
It will happen around the world -- but not here -- as the middle class grows globally. Two big questions for investors trying to catch this trend: How big it will be and how long it will last.
Posted: October 17, 2011, 6:45 pm
Retirement funds need to last a lifetime, which means more than just investing wisely. Certain steps can help maximize the amount of money you'll have when the paychecks stop.
Posted: October 17, 2011, 5:58 pm
America sacrificed equity for the false promise of efficiency and growth, and society is now more unequal than at any time since the early part of the last century.
Posted: October 14, 2011, 7:17 pm
Increasing numbers of adult children must provide care for an aging parent, which can take a significant toll on their finances. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce those costs.
Posted: October 14, 2011, 6:24 pm
An alphabet soup of financial maneuvers allows Europe to dodge the most recent round of bank crisis bullets. But government debt worries linger.
Posted: October 14, 2011, 5:35 pm
Lots of people are asking, and for many, the first task is to decide how they want to spend their retirement years. Plus: A worksheet to help you figure out the finances.
Posted: October 13, 2011, 6:17 pm
The country let the money gush to keep growth going despite the 2008 global financial crisis. The bills are coming due now, and alert investors may profit.
Posted: October 13, 2011, 6:11 pm
Worried that the retirement plans offered by your employer aren't all they should be? Here are 5 ways to make the best of what you have.
Posted: October 13, 2011, 2:08 pm
Americans are downright angry -- at Wall Street and at politicians in Washington. But the best way to fight back is to get in the game and win.
Posted: October 12, 2011, 8:01 pm
Option packages from the manufacturer and options installed by the dealer can both be a costly temptation. Savvy buyers should weigh their necessity carefully.
Posted: October 12, 2011, 6:11 pm
Are you holding on to paperwork 'just in case' it's needed? Know what you really need, and you can confidently shred the rest.
Posted: October 12, 2011, 6:04 pm
Do noisy engines help keep walkers and bicyclists safer? Automakers are trying to decide what kind of sound hybrid and electric cars should make.
Posted: October 11, 2011, 7:15 pm
In this market, stocks aren't all that's taken a beating. Conventional investing wisdom isn't holding up so well either.
Posted: October 11, 2011, 6:59 pm
Yes, teens -- and even younger children -- should be putting some of their earnings into retirement accounts. Plus: How parents can persuade them to do it.
Posted: October 11, 2011, 6:49 pm
Be prepared for several more months of struggle as markets fret about Europe. But next year, the markets are going to be focused on China.
Posted: October 10, 2011, 7:46 pm
Building better credit takes patience, discipline and a clear understanding of the strategies that really make a difference. Start by knowing the financial moves that don't work.
Posted: October 10, 2011, 6:00 pm
Before you decide to take this big step, take time to figure out the specifics: It can have a tremendous impact on the lifestyle that awaits.
Posted: October 7, 2011, 7:08 pm
There's no going back to the pre-crash economy, says Satyajit Das. Today's winning investors must do exactly the opposite of what was commonplace before the crisis hit.
Posted: October 7, 2011, 7:03 pm
All sorts of factors can diminish what your home is worth, such as the way your house compares with others in the area, your neighbors or a faulty appraisal.
Posted: October 7, 2011, 6:12 pm
We're seeing both extreme downside pressures and an angst-ridden relief rally. It’s hard to tell which way the deadlock will break, but whatever happens, the move is likely to be big.
Posted: October 7, 2011, 6:08 pm
Greece will surely default on its loans, dragging Europe into a deeper financial crisis. Leaders need to find ways to protect Spain and Portugal before it's too late.
Posted: October 6, 2011, 6:15 pm
Special tax treatment for mortgage interest, charitable donations and more are breaks beloved by many Americans. They also represent billions in uncollected taxes.
Posted: October 6, 2011, 6:04 pm
A proposal that would cut or modify tax incentives for savings vehicles such as 401k's is raising concerns that contributions could suffer.
Posted: October 6, 2011, 5:44 pm
Yes, the market has touched bearish levels recently. But the sell-off has gone too far, and the economic evidence suggests we could see a fourth-quarter rally.
Posted: October 5, 2011, 7:48 pm
Workers are being hired so quickly that there is also a booming business in housing them. And wages are so high that even McDonald's pays $15 an hour.
Posted: October 5, 2011, 7:00 pm
Divorce can often lead to money meltdowns, but these strategies can help minimize the fallout and keep your finances intact.
Posted: October 5, 2011, 5:34 pm
Yes, while we demand tax cuts, we're actually paying less, as a percentage of income, than ever before. And we're doing it while soldiers are fighting.
Posted: October 5, 2011, 5:05 pm
The economy is slowing, and most consumers are cutting back -- but it looks like the well-heeled have barely noticed. That means the stocks of luxury retailers may be in for lift.
Posted: October 4, 2011, 6:59 pm
If you spot an error in one of your credit reports, you're entitled to dispute it with the credit reporting bureau. Here are the steps to take.
Posted: October 4, 2011, 11:28 am
Rare earth stocks have gone from market darlings to market dogs. But if you can live with the risks, there are some good reasons to take another look.
Posted: October 3, 2011, 8:21 pm
Stingrays allow law enforcement, including the FBI, to find a mobile phone and track people's locations. Now a fraud case is raising questions about the proper court approval.
Posted: October 3, 2011, 12:27 pm
Some employees get a bigger match on their 401k's than others. Matches also vary regionally, so what you do and where you do it could affect your bottom line later.
Posted: October 3, 2011, 11:08 am
A provision in the Dodd-Frank act requires lenders to bear part of the risk in mortgages sold to investors. But the provision's proposed guidelines could reduce lending, critics charge.
Posted: October 1, 2011, 11:58 am
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: September 30, 2011, 6:03 pm
Each of these 19 mutual funds launched within the past 3 years got off to a promising start. Here's a snapshot of how they're holding up.
Posted: September 30, 2011, 1:02 pm
The days of zero-down mortgages may be gone, but the 20% minimum isn't always necessary for homebuyers. Still, there are good reasons for making it a savings target.
Posted: September 30, 2011, 12:28 pm
Don't let recent market machinations make you miss out on growth opportunities -- wherever you find them. Right now, Mongolia has the makings of a success story.
Posted: September 30, 2011, 11:24 am
Debt may not be your friend, but Facebook, Twitter and other social media are giving cardholders plenty of reason to connect with card issuers online.
Posted: September 30, 2011, 11:06 am
The recent dollar rally has triggered sharp declines in emerging-market stocks. They're cheap at the moment, and an end-of-year rally could pay investors 2 ways.
Posted: September 29, 2011, 7:44 pm
An investment strategist screens for stocks that meet 4 tough criteria. The result: companies that offer shareholders shelter in the market's storm.
Posted: September 29, 2011, 6:41 pm
If you're considering spending your golden years abroad, take a look at your options. Where you choose to live can dramatically affect your budget.
Posted: September 29, 2011, 6:08 pm
A lot of shellshocked investors are shunning stocks for government bonds or cash. Understandable as it is, it's the wrong move. Here are 3 better ideas for nervous investors.
Posted: September 28, 2011, 5:14 pm
Beware the stand-alone ATM, which criminals can purchase online and set up in a public spot for stealing people's account information. Even bank ATMs can be made unsafe.
Posted: September 28, 2011, 11:44 am
Long-term investors may have to devote more attention to managing losses than going for outsize returns. Pay attention to taxes, costs and asset allocation.
Posted: September 28, 2011, 11:39 am
Staying in touch is the best way to prevent inconveniences such as having your account blocked or major problems such as fraud.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 7:04 pm
After an accident, expect a claims adjuster to try to settle the case as inexpensively as possible. That's good for the insurer, but you'll need to look out for your own interests.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 7:00 pm
In uncertain times, it can pay to stick close to home, investing in companies that make products you know and love. Consider Starbucks, Amazon, Estee Lauder and more.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 5:46 pm
The shiny stuff has been sparkling. But when the economy and the stock market pick up, gold prices are likely to head down.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 1:58 pm
After a weak first quarter, battered airline stocks seem poised to soar. Five stocks in particular seem most likely to take off.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 1:02 pm
Cash is king in tough economies, in part because it lets the big fish prey on smaller companies that add to the bottom line. Here are 6 big names with big dollars to play with.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 12:39 pm
The power of compounding dividend payments means go-nowhere stocks like ConEd, Procter & Gamble and PepsiCo can pay off big.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 12:35 pm
A lot of investors consider Apple the best stock in the world to own; the second-best isn’t so clear, but here’s a look at McDonald’s and 2 other strong contenders.
Posted: September 27, 2011, 12:20 pm
The Chinese government wants to cool its hot economy to prevent higher inflation, but what if it overshoots? The entire global economy is at risk. Investors, watch carefully.
Posted: September 26, 2011, 6:24 pm
These companies have demonstrated a remarkable ability to successfully evolve and adapt while maintaining leadership positions in their industries.
Posted: September 26, 2011, 11:06 am
In August, they were bullish, but now company executives are nervous about the global economy and are a lot more likely to be selling.
Posted: September 23, 2011, 2:07 pm
Nobody wants a Greek default now. But sometime in 2012, Greece will want one -- and so will Germany. The question for investors is what will happen to the euro.
Posted: September 22, 2011, 7:30 pm
Starting small can pay off big. If you choose wisely and persevere, a modest monthly investment can produce a nest egg that will let you retire comfortably.
Posted: September 22, 2011, 12:28 pm
If your credit has suffered in the rough economy, you may be able to repair it more quickly than you think. And if you're in the midst of trouble, you can minimize the damage.
Posted: September 22, 2011, 11:13 am
When a parent dies and the children are faced with dividing up the possessions, things can get ugly. But by taking certain steps, the survivors can avoid family warfare.
Posted: September 21, 2011, 4:57 pm
We're well into a recovery, so why does it still feel so bleak? Here's why: The crunch we’re in is rooted in stagnant paychecks and payrolls, and it’s more than a decade old.
Posted: September 21, 2011, 1:49 pm
Tax crackdown could ensnare tens of thousands of innocent US citizens, and our neighbor to the north is having none of it.
Posted: September 20, 2011, 8:43 pm
With the market mired in malaise, it’s not easy to keep your 401k or IRA on track. So, you might want to focus on stocks and mutual funds that will pay you in any market.
Posted: September 20, 2011, 7:22 pm
When passive investing was first introduced, it was met with derision. But as the concept has proved its value, index funds have blossomed and evolved in new directions.
Posted: September 20, 2011, 5:15 pm
You may not know you have them, but your card issuer provides free protections and services that could cost you hundreds of dollars elsewhere.
Posted: September 20, 2011, 4:04 pm
In a widely wired world, vulnerability to cybercrime is increasing, and not just on your PC. Hacking targets now include Internet TVs, cars, medical devices and home security systems.
Posted: September 20, 2011, 12:19 pm
After a difficult summer, expect a profitable late autumn, as a season that's already very good to technology gets an additional boost from a broad market upswing. Here are the names worth watching.
Posted: September 19, 2011, 7:48 pm
The 2008 market sell-off was harsh, and the pain was compounded by investors' own errors. Smart investors learn from their mistakes.
Posted: September 19, 2011, 12:02 pm
Who knows how many Americans have been pushed into retirement by layoffs? As the US economy struggles, the government is supplying some with 2 income streams.
Posted: September 16, 2011, 5:16 pm
Last summer, the 'socially responsible' Appleseed fund began barring the stocks of too-big-to-fail banks, on ethical grounds. For shareholders, it's been a blessing.
Posted: September 16, 2011, 4:58 pm
A pivotal week lies ahead, as US and European central banks decide whether to push more cash into the economy. But money printing is part of the problem.
Posted: September 16, 2011, 4:41 pm
The current downturn in global markets has created a rare opportunity to buy stocks that will pay high income for boomers' retirements.
Posted: September 15, 2011, 7:44 pm
Depending on how -- and how much -- you drive, you may be able to save big on car insurance. Still, the coverage is relatively new, and not every insurer offers it.
Posted: September 15, 2011, 12:23 pm
Forget about CDs and Treasury bonds. Uncle Sam is effectively pushing you into stocks and mutual funds. Might as well make the best of it and pick the right ones.
Posted: September 15, 2011, 12:21 pm
Times are tough, but dwelling on the dangers won't help your portfolio. Instead, it's time to get greedy. Here's a strategy for buying stocks when things look bad, and 2 sectors that are worth a close look right now.
Posted: September 14, 2011, 6:09 pm
You can travel abroad without your credit card, but there are many advantages to having it, including protecting yourself against potentially serious problems.
Posted: September 14, 2011, 5:20 pm
Here are 6 questions you and your partner need to ask each other before you share a credit card. If you don't, you could be in for money trouble and heartache.
Posted: September 14, 2011, 4:57 pm
For many retirees, reeling in a check that's reliable and sufficiently large to pay the bills is beginning to seem like an impossible dream. Here's a playbook for today's reality.
Posted: September 14, 2011, 2:09 pm
Thanks to soaring defaults on federally backed mortgages, the US government is swamped with repossessions. Its challenge: Unload them without driving down prices.
Posted: September 14, 2011, 10:55 am
It's always a risk giving a teenager a card, but doing so can also teach financial responsibility. Make sure your card-carrying teen understands the right way to use credit.
Posted: September 14, 2011, 5:40 am
Several companies are performing well despite rampant fear in the markets. And dividend payouts give investors an added incentive to stay in the game.
Posted: September 13, 2011, 5:07 pm
Think it can't happen to you? Think again. And if it does, it can be weirder than you could imagine.
Posted: September 13, 2011, 3:42 pm
Sacked Yahoo boss Carol Bartz lashed out at the company as she walked out the door with parting gifts most folks would envy. But as CEO perks go, $9.4 million in severance is pretty chintzy.
Posted: September 13, 2011, 12:13 pm
FICO's new scoring model may make it easier for some to buy a house or get a credit card. But major lenders have been slow to switch, and the entire mortgage industry has yet to sign on.
Posted: September 13, 2011, 11:24 am
European leaders may stave off a banking crisis for a few more weeks. Markets may even stage a relief rally as Greek debt worries abate. But make no mistake -- a deeper crisis in foreign banks is coming.
Posted: September 12, 2011, 7:53 pm
More and more financially pressed homeowners are taking in lodgers for the extra income, but they need to know how to avoid potential problems.
Posted: September 12, 2011, 6:21 pm
If you've lost your nerve, prepare to also lose lots of deposits. Let's not even think about the nonrefundable items you bought. Oh, and the wedding party will be stuck with some bills, too.
Posted: September 12, 2011, 6:14 pm
You won't find an estimate in your mailbox this year, but there are still ways to figure out what size your check will be when you decide to start benefits.
Posted: September 9, 2011, 4:47 pm
There’s no denying that a devalued dollar helps an economy mired in debt. However, individuals pay a price: Your dollars won’t buy what they once did.
Posted: September 9, 2011, 4:42 pm
More volatility lies ahead as bank worries here and overseas continue to rattle markets. The focus instead should be on how central banks are debasing their currencies.
Posted: September 9, 2011, 4:13 pm
Not understanding exactly what your limit means could result in lower credit scores or expensive lessons from the school of experience. (Read and learn the easy way.)
Posted: September 9, 2011, 1:00 pm
Smoking, drinking and overeating are widespread around the world, but certain nations stand out. Find out which countries top these vice lists.
Posted: September 8, 2011, 7:36 pm
Economic growth forecasts are getting weaker in the US, but stronger in developing countries. Of those, 2 stand out as particularly promising for investors.
Posted: September 8, 2011, 7:21 pm
Investing experts share their views about how the terrorist attacks have affected the US financial system -- and changes that are likely (or needed) now.
Posted: September 8, 2011, 5:24 pm
Some households accumulate wealth, and some don't. It comes down to several factors, such as marriage, homeownership and college education, as well as the choices you make.
Posted: September 7, 2011, 6:08 pm
It's hard to see how the events on Wall Street over the past decade would have been any different had the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers never happened.
Posted: September 7, 2011, 5:04 pm
Yes, the nation is struggling, but we're not on our way to a meltdown just yet. And the lesson of the past decade has been to buy when everyone thinks we're doomed.
Posted: September 7, 2011, 12:45 pm
Welcome to long lines, businesses unprepared for the onslaught of (unprofitable) customers and resentful regulars. Some businesses aren't all that happy either.
Posted: September 6, 2011, 5:17 pm
Nepotism is alive and well in some of the world's largest companies, even those publicly traded. Meet the chiefs who are members of the lucky gene club.
Posted: September 6, 2011, 1:56 pm
Getting yourself out of the hole when you owe a great deal on your cards is never easy. But certain strategies can make the process more manageable.
Posted: September 6, 2011, 11:43 am
Congress has said it will neither raise taxes nor increase spending, and the Fed is taking a back seat for now. How can the government stimulate the economy without the tools of effective fiscal policy?
Posted: September 2, 2011, 7:09 pm
Investors looking for safe havens in a time of economic and market upheaval might want to give these large-cap stocks a look.
Posted: September 2, 2011, 4:24 pm
What the gold bears don't seem to realize is that, despite its big gains, the gold market can't be a bubble when almost everyone seems to think it’s overpriced.
Posted: September 2, 2011, 3:32 pm
Electronic stability control is now standard on every new car -- and experts expect it to save thousands of lives.
Posted: September 2, 2011, 11:34 am
Ever booked well in advance, only to see ticket prices sink? You may have some recourse. Also: How to avoid paying too much in the first place.
Posted: September 2, 2011, 11:24 am
Dozens of countries provide systems to refund the value-added tax, or VAT, and it's simple for tourists to get the money back.
Posted: September 1, 2011, 11:41 am
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: August 31, 2011, 6:00 pm
Political chest-thumping aside, economic fundamentals and the lesson of the Great Depression's 'double-dip' of '37 support the case for more government stimulus. Obama’s jobs plan might work -- if we let it.
Posted: August 31, 2011, 12:32 pm
The end of a marriage is a financial event as well as an emotional one. Here are 5 situations that can reduce -- or intensify -- the financial impact.
Posted: August 31, 2011, 12:03 pm
Recent dips are giving us another chance to get in on the great gold rush. The factors driving the metal higher -- broken governments and fragile economies -- aren't going away.
Posted: August 30, 2011, 12:49 pm
Your paycheck may look a lot bigger before you figure out how much of your spending is work-related. Here's how to cut those expenses down to size.
Posted: August 29, 2011, 12:49 pm
If you lose your job or hit some other bump in the road, these steps can help you protect your good credit until you're back on sound financial footing.
Posted: August 29, 2011, 12:11 pm
Awareness and smart planning will help you avoid these unnecessary charges (and save your money for things you can't get for free, or at least for less).
Posted: August 29, 2011, 11:16 am
The precious metal was due for a correction, and we may be seeing that now. Can gold maintain its luster for investors?
Posted: August 26, 2011, 7:25 pm
Cellphones and other distractions have us worrying more than ever about our fellow motorists. But we fool ourselves into thinking we're not part of the problem, too.
Posted: August 26, 2011, 3:21 pm
Investors watching their nest eggs melt away are asking whether the stock market is the best place for their savings. History says it is.
Posted: August 26, 2011, 1:14 pm
A house is probably the biggest purchase you'll ever make. And, if you can avoid these missteps, chances are you'll be happy with the home you choose.
Posted: August 25, 2011, 8:59 pm
You can protect yourself against identity thieves by understanding how they work, then taking the appropriate precautions with your credit card accounts.
Posted: August 25, 2011, 6:58 pm
International mutual funds and ETFs that focus on dividends may be just the ticket to generate income -- especially if the dollar remains weak.
Posted: August 25, 2011, 12:46 pm
The pressure is on Ben Bernanke to come to the rescue again, but don't expect QE3. Instead, smaller moves could ease lending and lift stocks -- and chase away the gloom.
Posted: August 24, 2011, 6:05 pm
Want to get the most for your nest egg? These funds are the best performers by category over the past one-, three-, five-, 10- and 20-year stretches.
Posted: August 24, 2011, 3:10 pm
Regulations are changing, but there's still reason to keep pressing for more openness about the 3-digit number that controls whether you can get a loan and how much it will cost.
Posted: August 24, 2011, 3:01 pm
Forbes presents its annual ranking of the 100 women doing the most to make their marks in politics, media, entertainment, business and philanthropy.
Posted: August 24, 2011, 12:05 pm
The longer you are in a store, the more you are likely to spend. Retailers know this, and once you walk through the doors, they work hard to keep you inside.
Posted: August 24, 2011, 10:50 am
The bungled downgrade of US credit by Standard & Poor's shows just how far financial markets still have to go to understand the risks that remain.
Posted: August 23, 2011, 8:08 pm
Just 3 years after the bailouts, the biggest US banks are seeing their stocks dive anew. Are they still sick, or are they good buys in a struggling market?
Posted: August 23, 2011, 1:01 pm
A thief who has access to your personal data can do a world of damage, so you must act quickly. Here's what to do (and how to minimize the chance you'll need to do it).
Posted: August 23, 2011, 11:35 am
When you're applying for a credit card, the issuer also takes other scores into consideration. One of the most important is your application score.
Posted: August 22, 2011, 5:48 pm
A small city in Northern California has sharply reduced the number of citations, and the number of accidents there has dropped as well. Are tickets simply overused?
Posted: August 22, 2011, 10:42 am
An elderly woman who co-signed for her adult son is now responsible for credit card bills that are bigger than she can pay. What are her options?
Posted: August 22, 2011, 10:04 am
You can’t even begin to measure all the risk in global equities markets now. But you can reduce your exposure. The stocks that fit into 3 themes should rise even if the global economy stalls.
Posted: August 19, 2011, 7:16 pm
Personal data can be stolen in seconds, but knowing how it most often happens can help you protect yourself or, if you're a victim, minimize the damage.
Posted: August 19, 2011, 1:56 pm
The market's high volatility and low returns have increased the appeal of 'safer' investments. But the road to financial security is paved with equities. Here's why.
Posted: August 19, 2011, 1:32 pm
A better score should be every consumer's goal -- and boosting the number may be easier than you think. These strategies can help.
Posted: August 18, 2011, 5:33 pm
Dividends provide a revenue stream that can pay investors while they wait for the stock market to rally. These 12 stocks have attractive yields.
Posted: August 18, 2011, 5:18 pm
As Europe struggles to keep the euro and its banking system viable, instability there could come home to roost in the US.
Posted: August 18, 2011, 5:04 pm
When you decide to retire, make sure you have your bases covered so you can enjoy the years ahead. Here's what you need to consider as you prepare.
Posted: August 18, 2011, 12:05 pm
If the stocks and the economy can’t get back on track, we’re in for a prolonged and painful downturn. The market is betting on recession, but there’s reason to believe we’ll make it.
Posted: August 17, 2011, 5:08 pm
There's a lot we can learn from how Sam Walton and other very wealthy individuals manage their money, in good times and bad.
Posted: August 17, 2011, 11:32 am
There's a lot we can learn from how Sam Walton and other very wealthy individuals manage their money, in good times and bad.
Posted: August 17, 2011, 11:32 am
Certain misconceptions about financial aid and the price of higher education are all too frequent. The facts show why they're not to be taken seriously.
Posted: August 17, 2011, 10:37 am
While recent volatility sparked panic selling, those in the know were buying. Among the names insiders thought were bargains: Morgan Stanley, Hasbro and Berkshire Hathaway.
Posted: August 16, 2011, 8:07 pm
If you use the Internet to share pictures with family and friends, learn how to reduce the chances of having those images used in ways you never intended.
Posted: August 16, 2011, 2:39 pm
Health care cards and lines of credit are popular among health care providers, who may offer them to patients seeking elective procedures. But they can pose problems.
Posted: August 16, 2011, 12:23 pm
Laying in emergency supplies is never easier than when there's no great urgency to do so. Which is why we all should be figuring out what we need and how to get it.
Posted: August 16, 2011, 10:43 am
Many blue chips are cheap and have dividend yields higher than that of a 10-year Treasury. Investors have an opportunity to build defensive portfolios that produce reliable income streams.
Posted: August 15, 2011, 7:48 pm
Gold prices dropped during the 2008 financial crisis, but they're soaring during the current mess. Bulls see more upside ahead; here's why -- and how to buy if you agree.
Posted: August 15, 2011, 12:57 pm
It's a tough market out there, and helping buyers with financing could be the difference between selling your house and waiting. Here, from the seller's point of view, are pros and cons.
Posted: August 15, 2011, 12:31 pm
Don’t celebrate recent gains just yet. These 4 analysts make a strong case that the stocks have further to fall. How low will the market go?
Posted: August 12, 2011, 3:39 pm
Bill Talen's character, a combination of minister and performance artist, preaches the evils of mindless consumerism and argues for changes in spending behavior.
Posted: August 12, 2011, 12:29 pm
The debt downgrade and turmoil that has followed have shaken the world's confidence in the US dollar and its leadership. But pain could be the motivation we need to fix the core problems.
Posted: August 12, 2011, 12:19 pm
A survey suggests more of us are nervous about using smartphones for banking. Is there reason to be? Plus: How to minimize the risks.
Posted: August 11, 2011, 7:33 pm
If the last few weeks have left you unsettled, it’s no wonder. The tactics used by these mutual funds can help you defend your wealth against a falling market.
Posted: August 11, 2011, 2:47 pm
The nation's economy is a major mess, and the situation is unlikely to change soon. Investors, take note -- and turn to stocks with strong global ties and better growth potential.
Posted: August 11, 2011, 1:51 pm
In some cases, insurance companies won’t mind if you file a claim, particularly if someone else is paying.
Posted: August 11, 2011, 11:50 am
A market like this one is difficult enough without accidentally adding risk to your portfolio. But a little knowledge and perspective can help you stay calm and avoid big blunders.
Posted: August 10, 2011, 4:57 pm
Understanding how your scores are determined can help you find the credit card that best suits your needs. Consider these 8 possibilities.
Posted: August 10, 2011, 1:44 pm
In rough times, the usual advice for everyday investors is to stick to your plan and avoid rash moves. But that’s not easy to do. These strategies may help.
Posted: August 10, 2011, 12:18 pm
Sometimes parents pass on to their children poor advice about handling money. Here are some messages that won't be helpful when those offspring strike out on their own.
Posted: August 10, 2011, 12:14 pm
That's a lot of money to shell out, and it's not even the only consequence if your dog attacks. The good news? You can reduce your risk.
Posted: August 10, 2011, 12:09 pm
Your retirement fund may look awfully tempting if you're having a personal financial crisis -- but getting to those savings can cost you. In some cases, though, you can reduce the pain.
Posted: August 9, 2011, 9:11 pm
Bernanke and the Fed will try, and politicians may join in. But they’ve had (and blown) their chance. The good news? A much-maligned group may be able to clean up this mess.
Posted: August 9, 2011, 8:38 pm
You won't get a conventional loan (or even an FHA loan), but you might still be able to borrow the whole cost of a house. Here's where to look -- and what to consider before you do it.
Posted: August 9, 2011, 11:23 am
Given the turbulent markets, cash may seem like the best place to be. But if you’re willing to take a little risk for a chance at higher returns, look for a dividend stock with a currency kicker.
Posted: August 8, 2011, 8:34 pm
Your finances, social life and even your marriage could benefit from working longer.
Posted: August 8, 2011, 2:54 pm
With the US credit downgrade and continued market turmoil, the odds of another recession keep rising. Take a close look at where your portfolio stands in stocks, funds, bonds and gold.
Posted: August 8, 2011, 2:18 pm
While relatively new to money management, these managers are among the top performers in their respective mutual fund categories.
Posted: August 8, 2011, 1:51 pm
Insurers already use social media to investigate suspicious claims and signs of fraud. Next up: Mining those sites for information about consumers.
Posted: August 8, 2011, 12:04 pm
The market is looking at the wrong measures when it comes to companies mining gold. When it catches on, these stocks will rise. Also: Warming up the printing presses.
Posted: August 5, 2011, 6:31 pm
Whether it's your cell phone, pay TV or Internet service, being connected costs, and you could be paying too much. The right strategies can reduce excessive charges.
Posted: August 5, 2011, 4:58 pm
Lower the cost of debt -- and maximize card rewards -- by using a strategy designed to help you get a better handle on your finances.
Posted: August 5, 2011, 12:30 pm
Economies everywhere seem to be slowing or stalled, giving investors little to choose from. So where, exactly, can you look for growth? Here are some ideas.
Posted: August 4, 2011, 8:38 pm
Stocks plunge as worries about global growth cause traders to dump stocks and seek safety. Gold briefly tops $1,680 but falls back. Treasury yields fall as the dollar rises.
Posted: August 4, 2011, 5:19 pm
The decision isn't strictly financial, of course, and the financial advantage varies with where you live. But living in a paid-off house is no longer a slam-dunk.
Posted: August 3, 2011, 10:03 pm
While the unsatisfying budget deal is done, there's nothing in it to stir our sputtering economy, and a credit downgrade is still possible. Time to prepare for trouble ahead.
Posted: August 3, 2011, 2:42 pm
Consumers are making remarkable progress in restoring their credit. That means they can start spending more, something the economy badly needs.
Posted: August 3, 2011, 12:57 pm
Forbes releases its annual lists of top-quality undergraduate institutions and also colleges where you'll get the best value for your dollar.
Posted: August 3, 2011, 12:01 pm
Each has its advantages as a retirement-savings vehicle, but by asking several questions, you can make the best decision for your financial circumstances.
Posted: August 2, 2011, 6:58 pm
If a natural disaster leaves your home in ruins, your first impulse probably isn't to give your lender a call. Here's why it needs to be a priority.
Posted: August 2, 2011, 6:20 pm
Do you always pick up the tab? Are you the go-to person for short-term loans? And are you tired of doing both? Here's how to keep finances from fouling friendships.
Posted: August 2, 2011, 4:17 pm
As Americans ridicule their government for running up huge deficits, household balance sheets are in their worst shape in 80 years. But investment discipline can start to repair the damage.
Posted: August 2, 2011, 12:40 pm
Despite a hard economy, it looks as if the market’s corporate raiders are getting back to work. Here’s why names like Whirlpool, SkyWest and Aetna could be takeover targets -- and how to profit if they are.
Posted: August 2, 2011, 12:17 pm
Commentary: The United States slips into recession in 2012, and things don't get better from there. Here's how investors can protect themselves.
Posted: August 1, 2011, 4:32 pm
Families and businesses count and add the numbers honestly. They invest and plan for the future, and borrow when it makes sense. Washington could take a lesson.
Posted: August 1, 2011, 2:38 pm
With post-crisis credit still tight, you'll need to work harder to demonstrate you can handle a mortgage. Jump through these 5 hoops to prove you're worthy.
Posted: August 1, 2011, 12:00 am
Your mortgage interest rate isn't the only number you need to heed. It pays to negotiate on all your home loan terms.
Posted: August 1, 2011, 12:00 am
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: July 29, 2011, 7:19 pm
The chances of dying in a car crash are greatest in August, when more Americans are killed while driving than at any other time of the year.
Posted: July 29, 2011, 3:56 pm
A hot company often helps drive its sector. But Apple's dominance is a phenomenon that hasn't been seen -- and its fortunes will have an unprecedented ripple effect.
Posted: July 29, 2011, 3:37 pm
No matter how dramatic the politics around the debt ceiling become, it's just theater. The reality is that government is out of control, tax revenues must rise and spending must fall.
Posted: July 29, 2011, 12:57 pm
Strapped cities and states are finding creative ways to assess charges on residents for all kinds of things. Be prepared to start paying your government more in fees.
Posted: July 29, 2011, 12:04 pm
Did China’s high-speed trains get so fast by cutting corners on safety? The recent wreck is becoming a potent symbol for those who believe China is growing too fast for its own good.
Posted: July 28, 2011, 5:31 pm
The recent recession may have blown a big hole into some of your assumptions. How, now, do you regroup so that your money lasts?
Posted: July 28, 2011, 12:45 pm
You can increase your value as a worker while decreasing the cost of visiting places you've always wanted to go. Here's how to do it.
Posted: July 28, 2011, 12:33 pm
A quartet of money managers who trounced the market during the crash and recovery explain how they did it, and where they see opportunity today.
Posted: July 27, 2011, 3:40 pm
Politicians say they're committed to making sure the US doesn't default on its debt, but their actions haven't inspired much confidence. Here's how investors can prepare for the worst.
Posted: July 27, 2011, 3:26 pm
Everyone knows there are financial difficulties with the Social Security system, but misinformation and falsehoods are obscuring the problem and what needs to be done.
Posted: July 27, 2011, 12:09 pm
They used to be the stuff of science fiction, but 5 auto companies are now testing prototypes -- so it might not be long before the rubber meets the road.
Posted: July 26, 2011, 3:22 pm
Although auto-enrollment increases participation in 401k plans, some enrollees are putting away a smaller portion of their paychecks than they would have otherwise.
Posted: July 26, 2011, 11:54 am
Even if the US technically runs out of money, creditors will probably allow a little time before calling it a default. But investors may bail long before then. Here’s a road map to how it would play out.
Posted: July 25, 2011, 2:00 pm
Homeownership rates are falling, and the trend is expected to continue. Is something fundamental changing in the American psyche?
Posted: July 25, 2011, 1:33 pm
These are advantages and disadvantages to both owning a home and renting. Evaluate them carefully before deciding which you should do.
Posted: July 25, 2011, 1:06 pm
If you believe your loan should have been modified by now (or you feel ignored by your lender), a lawsuit might help. But you might have other, better options.
Posted: July 25, 2011, 12:44 pm
Your mortgage lender can hit you with a wide range of charges, some legitimate but some excessive. By shopping around and negotiating, you can reduce your loan's costs.
Posted: July 22, 2011, 4:50 pm
When strong earnings from tech titans like these can't fuel much of a rally, there's downside ahead. Also: Europe plays another round of kick-the-can.
Posted: July 22, 2011, 3:10 pm
I thought U.S. and European leaders could avert calamity. I may have been wrong. Here's how investors should address the rising risks -- and the higher potential rewards if these messes are resolved.
Posted: July 22, 2011, 2:16 pm
A surge in gold and silver prices has more people looking to invest a portion of their retirement savings in precious metals. Here's how it can be done.
Posted: July 21, 2011, 8:29 pm
Savvy investors are looking for the relative handful of companies with the capital and expertise to wisely put their money to work for shareholders.
Posted: July 21, 2011, 7:21 pm
Yes, it's possible (though it's not likely). However, there are some telltale signs that you're paying too high a price today in your efforts to fund your future.
Posted: July 21, 2011, 4:42 pm
My credit, myself: Can a quick swipe satisfy feelings of inadequacy? Researchers say that's the case for some 20-somethings.
Posted: July 20, 2011, 5:24 pm
Political bickering over debt is threatening the US with its first major credit default since 1790. But the likely way out of the red means a painful era of inflation. Here's how to get ready.
Posted: July 20, 2011, 5:12 pm
If the government fails to raise its borrowing limit by Aug. 2, the impact on consumers could be deep and wide-ranging, from rising interest rates to a stock market sell-off.
Posted: July 20, 2011, 2:15 pm
The recession has made employers less likely to contribute to workers' retirement savings, or less generous with the options they do provide.
Posted: July 20, 2011, 12:22 pm
Sometimes a parent may come to you for money, especially if retirement expenses are unmanageable. If you can afford to make the loan, there are right and wrong ways to help.
Posted: July 19, 2011, 6:29 pm
Despite some upbeat news, key housing market statistics point to years of stagnation, some experts say.
Posted: July 19, 2011, 3:15 pm
Taking time off is a lot easier when it starts with fueling up the corporate jet. Here's a look at some of the big travel-related perks CEOs and other top executives enjoy.
Posted: July 19, 2011, 1:08 pm
Failure to raise the debt ceiling would inflict immediate pain on many Americans and long-term damage to the nation's finances. But there's a chance the fallout could be far worse.
Posted: July 18, 2011, 8:22 pm
Social Security is facing long-term shortfalls, so future beneficiaries need to prepare early to maximize their benefits. And current recipients need to protect what they're getting now.
Posted: July 18, 2011, 6:09 pm
Exchange-traded funds can offer an affordable way to broaden your investment options beyond index mutual funds. But there are also drawbacks to consider.
Posted: July 18, 2011, 10:58 am
For all but a single star performer, first-half performance wasn't worth bragging about. But investors should consider more than performance over a 6-month period.
Posted: July 15, 2011, 8:12 pm
Unwanted banking charges can appear when you don't expect them, such as ATM balance-inquiry fees or fees for talking to a human. Know what they are and how to avoid them.
Posted: July 15, 2011, 7:26 pm
Stakes in newly public online companies -- and those still planning IPOs -- add risk to a portfolio, but the possibility of quick growth makes the lofty valuations more palatable.
Posted: July 15, 2011, 1:13 pm
Fed chief Bernanke is hovering, ready to respond to US economic weakness with more stimulus; Europe wishes it could use the same 'fix.'
Posted: July 15, 2011, 12:36 pm
Your family members will need to know how to handle your affairs after your passing. To do so, they'll need essential documents that you've prepared for them.
Posted: July 15, 2011, 7:07 am
A spike in mergers is a sign of optimism on the part of CEOs -- and a handy way for individual investors to make some money while the economy limps along.
Posted: July 14, 2011, 8:30 pm
Consumer demand is strong for used cars, but supplies are limited. As a result, auto dealers badly need trade-ins and are willing to pay top dollar.
Posted: July 14, 2011, 5:45 pm
Although the global macroeconomic picture is scary, the forces that drive stock prices higher are surprisingly reassuring. Now is the time to go against the crowd.
Posted: July 13, 2011, 4:24 pm
If lawmakers fail to raise the federal debt limit, no asset class will be safe, and panic will sweep the financial markets. Interest rates will spike and the economy will fall back into a recession.
Posted: July 13, 2011, 3:32 pm
Collection agents may tell you otherwise, but you might not be responsible for the bill. Before you pay, find out if the debt is real and whether you're on the hook.
Posted: July 13, 2011, 3:11 pm
Readers responding to a poll say they'd first try cutting back on eating out. There was one thing, however, that almost nobody wanted to go without.
Posted: July 13, 2011, 12:23 pm
The real problem investors in China need to worry about is not inflation or debt. It's known as the 'middle-income trap,' and it may be hitting China now.
Posted: July 12, 2011, 8:06 pm
In a struggling market, stocks that provide regular payouts are emerging as a key to investing success -- and a peaceful night's sleep.
Posted: July 12, 2011, 4:48 pm
What's your risk from hackers? It might depend partly on what bank issued your credit card -- some protect you much better than others.
Posted: July 11, 2011, 7:05 pm
Well, sure you need a break from routine, but hang on to your wallet. Here are 5 sneaky ways this year's vacation could cost you in your golden years.
Posted: July 11, 2011, 12:26 pm
Credit cards are convenient and offer you lots of protections -- but there are times when using them (or trying to) just buys trouble.
Posted: July 11, 2011, 11:25 am
So-called financial advisers target aging baby boomers with fraud schemes that aim to steal a piece of their nest egg. And often these con artists belong to the same age group.
Posted: July 11, 2011, 11:05 am
These defensive funds have track records of protecting investors from steep losses when broad indexes are plunging -- without missing out on the rebound.
Posted: July 8, 2011, 6:47 pm
Anadarko Petroleum appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter's best investment ideas.
Posted: July 8, 2011, 6:12 pm
Tickets, parking, food and drinks, souvenirs -- the price of going to a Major League baseball game can really add up. Here are the 5 most expensive ballparks, and some tips for cutting costs.
Posted: July 8, 2011, 3:36 pm
You don't want to end up without enough savings when it's time to retire, but if you don't plan wisely and avoid these pitfalls, it could happen.
Posted: July 8, 2011, 2:20 pm
Conventional wisdom would suggest China's economy is heading for a painful landing. But the government will go to great lengths to avoid that -- which creates a different set of problems.
Posted: July 7, 2011, 8:30 pm
There are 2 main time limits: How long debt stays in your credit reports and how long you can be sued for it. If you're struggling, here's what you need to know.
Posted: July 7, 2011, 8:01 pm
Locking in a steady income stream is as hard as it's ever been. But it's not impossible. Here are strategies to consider.
Posted: July 7, 2011, 5:16 pm
Many wealthy Americans who reach retirement age don't expect to leave much money to their children (and think the kids couldn't handle it if they did).
Posted: July 7, 2011, 1:25 pm
Investing experts share their insights on how to make money now -- in the stock market, in bonds or in real estate.
Posted: July 6, 2011, 5:25 pm
Experts say the US economy is improving, but it's hardly humming along. Bold, creative solutions to high unemployment and the trade deficit could get things back on track.
Posted: July 6, 2011, 5:16 pm
The purveyor of burgers is going upscale, treading on turf that the coffee titan has trolled for years. Which company will prevail? And what's the effect on consumers?
Posted: July 5, 2011, 4:35 pm
If you're a potential expat, a million questions may come to mind. Here are some of the most common questions -- along with the answers.
Posted: July 5, 2011, 12:45 pm
Recent federal rules have driven lenders to estimate your income based on credit reports. But the tools they're using aren't precise, and mistakes might be hard to correct.
Posted: July 3, 2011, 12:00 am
Underwriting guidelines prevent lenders from making a 'real-life review' of a couple's creditworthiness. Only the lower of the 2 credit scores determines mortgage rates.
Posted: July 1, 2011, 7:16 pm
Your driving doesn't have anything to do with your creditworthiness, so why should an unpaid ticket torpedo your credit scores?
Posted: July 1, 2011, 7:10 pm
Wealthy but 'underwater' homeowners are giving up on paying their mortgages as a financial tactic, a study finds. Those with smaller loans are less likely to do so.
Posted: July 1, 2011, 3:15 pm
It turned out houses weren't piggy banks after all, and equity won't be funding many people's retirement. Should you stay put, downsize or get out completely?
Posted: July 1, 2011, 2:44 pm
Credit scores are important, but having great scores doesn't mean you're doing everything right. If you fall for any of these 3 myths you could still get hurt.
Posted: July 1, 2011, 11:56 am
From Greece to the US, in a world filled with money printing, there always seems to be a way to delay the day of reckoning. Plus: What lies ahead for the tech sector.
Posted: July 1, 2011, 7:01 am
The drumbeat of bad news is ending, and investors are now willing to cling to any hint of better news. But how long can that boost the market?
Posted: June 30, 2011, 8:28 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: June 30, 2011, 5:28 pm
Actually, we've had a tax break this year, but it's about to end. Also, the Social Security tax wage ceiling is expected to start rising again next year.
Posted: June 30, 2011, 3:48 pm
You'll hear that the recovery is already over. But actually, it's still here, and this bull has room to run. And that, of course, means investors have some good opportunities.
Posted: June 29, 2011, 5:00 pm
More workers are tapping their retirement savings. And in some cases, it's a smart move (though it usually isn't). Before you do it, be aware of the serious drawbacks.
Posted: June 29, 2011, 4:31 pm
Many older Americans are staying in their homes and teaming up with their neighbors to get cheaper health care and other services.
Posted: June 29, 2011, 12:02 pm
Credit remains tight as bankers continue to be cautious about lending. But if you need a loan, there are ways you can significantly boost your chances for approval.
Posted: June 29, 2011, 8:10 am
Investors worried about sinking Treasury values can breathe easier -- for now. New banking regulations mean sovereign debt will look a lot more attractive in the short term. After that, things could turn ugly.
Posted: June 28, 2011, 8:05 pm
Well, sure it's easier to stop working if you have a pension and a fat 401k, but millions of us don't. Here are 6 ways to stretch those checks.
Posted: June 28, 2011, 5:34 pm
ETFs are supposed to be safe and steady, but some of the same exotic instruments that helped tank the market four years ago are being employed now to craft increasingly complex exchange-traded funds.
Posted: June 28, 2011, 5:32 pm
The rush to offer new ways for investors to chase market gains has splintered the ETF industry, producing a growing number of funds that may be too small to prosper.
Posted: June 27, 2011, 2:11 pm
How wisely you invest your savings and plan for future income will determine when you can afford to stop working. Reviewing these essentials is part of that process.
Posted: June 27, 2011, 1:46 pm
Before you pick a policy, carefully evaluate what you need as well as how much risk you can afford to take. Also, keep your eyes open for potentially nasty surprises.
Posted: June 27, 2011, 1:16 pm
Bank-owned properties have become increasingly lucrative for real estate investors, but potential obstacles remain for those seeking a deal.
Posted: June 24, 2011, 5:47 pm
Some supposedly safe places for cash are exposing savers to surprising amounts of European debt -- and the hazards that go with it.
Posted: June 24, 2011, 5:17 pm
With LinkedIn and Pandora hitting the market and Facebook and Groupon on the way, interest in initial public offerings is soaring. But it’s not easy (and it's risky) to play this game.
Posted: June 24, 2011, 2:00 pm
With LinkedIn and Pandora hitting the market and Facebook and Groupon on the way, interest in initial public offerings is soaring. But it’s not easy (and it's risky) to play this game.
Posted: June 24, 2011, 2:00 pm
Carriers can hit you with unexpected charges that significantly increase the cost of a flight ticket. Fortunately, there are ways to get around these fees.
Posted: June 24, 2011, 11:42 am
Even as the economy recovers, joblessness has barely budged. Solutions are out there, and waiting will only put the US at a disadvantage in the global economy.
Posted: June 23, 2011, 8:30 pm
Many older people think they're stuck with the doctor assigned to them. In most cases, that's not true. A daughter shares lessons from her father's decline and death.
Posted: June 23, 2011, 3:46 pm
Bill Gross is the world's pre-eminent bond fund manager. But his Pimco Total Return fund is too big, and there are better alternatives.
Posted: June 23, 2011, 3:27 pm
Those of us who overuse credit cards may do so in the belief that our purchases can transform us. Specifically, there are 4 things overspenders crave.
Posted: June 23, 2011, 3:17 pm
As the market stalls and corporate-earnings growth starts to slow, dividend-paying companies look a lot more attractive. ETFs offer simple ways to cash in on those payouts.
Posted: June 22, 2011, 5:54 pm
Your home, auto and medical coverage could be better than you think. Here are 11 scenarios for which you might be pleasantly surprised to learn you can file a claim.
Posted: June 22, 2011, 4:39 pm
The next hot commodity for investors could be one you think is everywhere, but which in reality is increasingly hard to find: Clean, fresh water.
Posted: June 22, 2011, 1:37 pm
Older people can be vulnerable to financial scams, so family members need to know how to protect them from con artists, even those within the family.
Posted: June 22, 2011, 12:38 pm
And it’s not just ice cream on the house -- you can score dinner, drinks, clothing, cosmetics, e-books and even lingerie on your special day.
Posted: June 21, 2011, 6:55 pm
When you're newly on your own, you need just about everything, and plastic can become a big temptation. But money missteps now could cost you for years.
Posted: June 21, 2011, 4:51 pm
Everybody's talking about it (reason enough to be cautious). Know which technology companies can give you a piece -- or a bigger helping -- of the action.
Posted: June 21, 2011, 1:34 pm
The fast-growing economy is fueled by low-paid migrant workers who have watched others profit from their sweat. How much longer will they be willing to do it?
Posted: June 20, 2011, 8:30 pm
Midlife is a good time to take stock. Your wants and needs have probably changed in the past 20 years; now's the time to make sure you have the bases covered.
Posted: June 20, 2011, 1:57 pm
The discount broker, a bit player in 401k's, seeks a bigger share of the mutual fund market with retirement-plan ETFs. But for investors and Schwab alike, there could be big risks.
Posted: June 20, 2011, 1:45 pm
Before you take out a big loan, make sure you know what can happen if things go wrong -- or if you want to repay it ahead of schedule.
Posted: June 20, 2011, 12:25 pm
When your investment portfolio is strewn with multiple accounts, it's difficult to gauge risk and maintain diversification. Fewer accounts can mean better money management.
Posted: June 20, 2011, 12:22 pm
Shares of many of Chinese companies have tumbled as regulators and investors have raised questions about companies' finances and operations.
Posted: June 17, 2011, 3:20 pm
If you don't remember the last time you took a look at your credit report, you're overdue. Errors are common: Here's how to find and fix them.
Posted: June 17, 2011, 2:52 pm
When you have a problem with a company's product or service, there are right and wrong ways to try to get it solved.
Posted: June 17, 2011, 2:37 pm
The market is likely to keep leaking until the Federal Reserve plugs it with more easy money. And that will only lead to further trouble.
Posted: June 17, 2011, 12:47 pm
The fallout from derivatives -- this time tied to Greek debt -- could trigger global financial contagion. How could we be dumb enough to let it happen again?
Posted: June 16, 2011, 8:35 pm
Over nearly half a century, the stocks with the highest risk produced the lowest returns -- and stocks with the lowest risk produced the highest returns.
Posted: June 16, 2011, 5:47 pm
A few policies now cover veterinary expenses -- or, heaven forbid, burial costs -- for pets injured in automobile accidents.
Posted: June 16, 2011, 12:22 pm
Not all rewards cards are created equal. We check in with 4 experts who give us their top picks for travel, savings and cash-back rewards programs.
Posted: June 15, 2011, 3:38 pm
There's a sense of impending doom in the market as the end of the Fed's QE2 money-printing program nears. But we don't need QE3 -- help is on the way.
Posted: June 15, 2011, 1:20 pm
Nearly 20 cents of every dollar of disposable income comes from the government, often in the form of Social Security, Medicare or unemployment benefits.
Posted: June 15, 2011, 12:52 pm
In a survey, wealthy investors acknowledge a tendency to let emotions drive investment decisions. Plus: Why women are better at long-term investing.
Posted: June 15, 2011, 11:55 am
If someone calls and demands payment for a debt you weren't aware you owed, don't just pay up -- ask questions. Here are 8 ways to tell if the collector (and debt) is legit.
Posted: June 14, 2011, 4:09 pm
Disinterest in big-box stores, fierce online competition and still-struggling consumers have soured investors on the electronics giant. But the Blue Shirts should make it through.
Posted: June 14, 2011, 12:38 pm
The last thing you'll want to do during retirement is worry about money. Following these tried-and-true rules can help keep you financially secure as you age.
Posted: June 14, 2011, 12:10 pm
Many of us are afraid we won't have enough money -- though we don't know how much that would be. Six easy steps can help you calculate a goal and chart your progress.
Posted: June 13, 2011, 6:50 pm
Your stock picking will look outstanding if your returns include dividends when they're compared to the S&P 500 index without dividends. Some investment promoters are doing just that.
Posted: June 13, 2011, 12:10 pm
You may have to decide how to tell an elderly parent that it's no longer safe to continue driving. But first you'll need to recognize when it's time.
Posted: June 13, 2011, 11:00 am
Politicians in the US, China and Europe are all postponing tough financial decisions until after next year's elections. But in 2013, we'll have to face the (bigger) problems.
Posted: June 13, 2011, 10:30 am
Wall Street offers ways to insure your nest egg -- for a price. Are any of them worth the money? And is it possible to do it yourself?
Posted: June 10, 2011, 1:49 pm
Talk of a recovery seems premature, as job, real-estate and budget woes continue to weigh on the economy. The path to a real recovery will be painful.
Posted: June 10, 2011, 12:42 pm
Giants like Cisco and Hewlett-Packard look inexpensive based on some valuation measures. But if you consider where trends are heading, there is an obvious winner.
Posted: June 9, 2011, 8:27 pm
Want to undermine your chances of getting a payout from your car insurance company? These 6 foolish moves can make sure that happens.
Posted: June 9, 2011, 12:02 pm
One lesson of the financial meltdown is that if regulators aren't looking for fraud, they aren't going to find it. And they still aren't looking.
Posted: June 9, 2011, 11:53 am
A stream of bad news on jobs, Greece and so much else makes it hard to believe. But this latest reversal will run its course; here's how to play the re-recovery.
Posted: June 8, 2011, 8:10 pm
There are many ways to retire a home loan in advance, but not all of them may work for you. Here’s how to find the one that best suits your needs.
Posted: June 7, 2011, 1:46 pm
The spring storms that laid waste to homes, businesses and cars should serve as a wake-up call to do what we can to blunt the economic impact of nature's fury.
Posted: June 7, 2011, 1:34 pm
There are numerous parallels with the market's current malaise and last summer's 15% drop. And this summer's swoon could be even worse, Jim Jubak says.
Posted: June 6, 2011, 8:30 pm
Students now spend an average of 6 years in college. Parents who saved were probably counting on 4 years. Here's how to lower the price of higher education.
Posted: June 6, 2011, 5:22 pm
Staid old savings bonds have a brand-new appeal for investors weary of distressingly low interest rates. Here's why you might want to give them a second look.
Posted: June 6, 2011, 2:19 pm
For years, baby boomers have accumulated vast quantities of stuff, from the usual household furnishings to rare antiques and collectibles. With retirement, it's time to sell it off.
Posted: June 6, 2011, 1:19 pm
An infuriated customer can sometimes get better results; the trick is to knowing how (and how much) to use anger to negotiate or complain.
Posted: June 3, 2011, 7:17 pm
If you're impulsive or high-strung, day trading is not for you. But if you can think fast and stay cool, it may be worth a try. Here's what you must know to start.
Posted: June 3, 2011, 6:29 pm
Greece's financial saga will end, at some point, in default. Plus: The Fed is fooling itself on inflation, and why housing is still a mess.
Posted: June 3, 2011, 2:56 pm
Who wouldn't want some of the rates available now? You, maybe. Before you get carried away with bragging rights, check to see if a refi is really in your best interest.
Posted: June 3, 2011, 2:23 pm
Investors can learn a lot from the scandal at Longtop Financial. Jim Jubak offers 5 lessons, plus 5 tips for safer investing in China.
Posted: June 2, 2011, 8:34 pm
Many investors had IPO envy when LinkedIn began life as a public company with a triple-digit gain. But if you're shut out of an IPO, you can still benefit from its wealth-building power.
Posted: June 2, 2011, 1:17 pm
Soaring costs and the burden of student loans are giving plenty of people pause. Is a college education really worth it?
Posted: June 2, 2011, 12:38 pm
Companies that beat expectations on sales, exceed profit estimates and also raise guidance for future performance are the market's superstars.
Posted: June 1, 2011, 7:12 pm
Think you'll never be able to leave your job? The answer may be to take a cruise or hit the links sooner than you planned. Here's how it works.
Posted: June 1, 2011, 1:32 pm
Think a $1 million portfolio will make you feel secure? About 4 in 10 millionaires say they'd need $7.5 million in the bank to feel rich. What would it take you to get there?
Posted: June 1, 2011, 1:21 pm
Homeowners who walk away in strategic defaults are not necessarily the ones most 'underwater.' A different factor matters more.
Posted: June 1, 2011, 11:48 am
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: May 31, 2011, 6:35 pm
Consumers should be wary of the risks that come with store-specific cards, particularly their horrendous interest rates. But such cards can be used wisely.
Posted: May 31, 2011, 1:24 pm
Some manufacturers are using new packaging to shrink the contents of their products while charging the same prices as before.
Posted: May 31, 2011, 11:47 am
You are probably more vulnerable to hacking and malware than you realize, but some simple safeguards can help you protect yourself.
Posted: May 31, 2011, 11:14 am
A new study indicates recent or soon-to-be retirees have serious money worries, but they can take steps to assuage those concerns and improve their financial situation.
Posted: May 27, 2011, 12:45 pm
When hard times hit, single-industry towns are especially vulnerable. And the combination of the recession and housing bust has Sin City reeling.
Posted: May 27, 2011, 11:49 am
With nuclear fading and wind proving problematic, the big action now is in solar, natural gas and even coal. Plus: Some companies worth a look.
Posted: May 26, 2011, 8:30 pm
Here's a quick look at the methodology and the full results of the MSN Money-IBOPE Zogby International customer-service survey for 2011.
Posted: May 26, 2011, 4:47 pm
Financial advisers cite several reasons for a renewed urge to own precious metals and other alternatives to stocks and bonds. But they warn that these assets carry expenses and risks.
Posted: May 26, 2011, 3:27 pm
Car shoppers need to be on the lookout even if they don't live anywhere near flood-affected areas. Here's what to look for if you're shopping for a used car.
Posted: May 26, 2011, 1:30 pm
When homeowners are resigned to foreclosure, money they would otherwise put toward their mortgages still gets spent, economists point out.
Posted: May 26, 2011, 12:16 pm
The Fed, Washington and the world have poured trillions into the economy to try to get it moving. Here's why the dollars seem to disappear -- and what could stop it.
Posted: May 25, 2011, 1:58 pm
Big Oil won a skirmish over its tax breaks last week, but more battles loom. Other targets could be tax breaks that help the housing sector, health care -- and you.
Posted: May 25, 2011, 12:46 pm
The magic of family fun can make your cash vanish in front of your eyes. Yet with a little research, you can save a bundle on tickets, food and extras.
Posted: May 25, 2011, 11:47 am
Paying off your card balance every month is fine, but there are other steps you can take to get a higher credit rating.
Posted: May 24, 2011, 5:06 pm
It depends on (among other things) the kind of lifestyle you hope to have in retirement. Here are 5 factors to consider in setting a 401k savings goal.
Posted: May 24, 2011, 12:55 pm
Investors are worried that the current market pullback will turn into a full-fledged bear market. Here are 3 things investors should have learned from recent crises.
Posted: May 23, 2011, 7:03 pm
You won't get rich, experts say, but amateurs can start prospecting once they know what equipment they need, where to search and the best methods to go for the gold.
Posted: May 23, 2011, 4:33 pm
For millions of Americans, the difference between a comfortable retirement and a constant struggle to meet expenses comes down to having a plan.
Posted: May 23, 2011, 1:28 pm
Sure, you'd save fuel if you drove more slowly. And safety experts point out that fatalities increase with speed. What in the world are states thinking?
Posted: May 23, 2011, 11:49 am
These 3 big companies control your financial future. Understanding how they work will help you better manage your credit rating.
Posted: May 23, 2011, 11:30 am
Congressional posturing notwithstanding, the government's balance sheet and budgetary problems aren't likely to be resolved anytime soon.
Posted: May 20, 2011, 12:12 pm
When children feel they're entitled to parental payouts, teaching the value of a work ethic, as well as sound financial practices, becomes even more important.
Posted: May 20, 2011, 11:41 am
Despite a 12% gain since last year, savers surveyed by Fidelity Investments are hardly feeling flush. Many say they are unsure they'll be financially ready to retire.
Posted: May 20, 2011, 11:02 am
Caught between rising costs and price controls, China, India, Russia and other countries face a problem that is much worse: Not enough energy to go around.
Posted: May 19, 2011, 8:30 pm
A manual transmission may not deter car thieves or affect insurance rates, but even if it doesn't, there are still good reasons to learn to drive with a gearshift.
Posted: May 19, 2011, 3:33 pm
As you grow older, your ability to make sound financial decisions will almost certainly decline, but if you prepare, you can maintain healthy finances well into old age.
Posted: May 19, 2011, 1:27 pm
The venerated investor employs fuzzy financial reporting that gives his investment vehicle an 'intrinsic' value richer than what the market's willing to pay.
Posted: May 19, 2011, 11:54 am
Sometimes cars can be safely repaired, postponing the cost of buying a replacement. But before you go that route, there are some important questions to ask.
Posted: May 19, 2011, 11:30 am
There are real financial risks when one parent decides to stay at home, but careful budgeting and expense trimming can help make the transition work.
Posted: May 18, 2011, 1:47 pm
Too few buyers with too many homes for sale depresses prices. Analysts foresee an additional 10% plunge -- an opportunity for landlords and investors, but bad news for homeowners.
Posted: May 18, 2011, 12:25 pm
Coming out of a bruising recession, the average CEO got a 24% pay raise. The average worker? Just 3.3%. What does the widening pay gap mean for investors?
Posted: May 18, 2011, 10:59 am
Mutual fund investors are getting an uncomfortable reminder of how volatile commodity prices can be. But the fundamentals remain in place for long-term gains.
Posted: May 17, 2011, 11:42 am
Even modest inflation can eat away a life's worth of saving. These strategies can help keep your golden years golden.
Posted: May 17, 2011, 11:23 am
Some highly touted names have come back down to Earth. Even better, the stocks seem to be trading off fundamentals, not froth. Here are 2 worth watching.
Posted: May 16, 2011, 8:30 pm
Hoping to reach age 65 with $1 million? You can achieve your goal, but getting there requires discipline -- and the earlier you start, the better.
Posted: May 16, 2011, 12:09 pm
There's more than one approach to reducing gas bills. Readers offer a range of suggestions, from the highly practical to the less than obvious.
Posted: May 16, 2011, 12:02 pm
Defaulting on your loans can have serious consequences. But if you recognize the problem in time, there are usually ways to repair the damage.
Posted: May 16, 2011, 11:09 am
The financial industry and its friends in Congress are trying to gut the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau before it even gets off the ground.
Posted: May 13, 2011, 1:35 pm
The recent speculation-driven ups and downs in silver are par for the course with this manic metal. Also: Why gold and Microsoft get no respect.
Posted: May 13, 2011, 12:39 pm
It pays to understand all the details of your company's plan, from employer matches to investment policies, so you maximize your savings.
Posted: May 13, 2011, 12:05 pm
'Smart car' features are becoming more common. Do motorists welcome the convenience, or are cars becoming too bossy?
Posted: May 13, 2011, 11:25 am
The recent crash in silver is only the latest proof that when too many nervous investors seek refuge in the same asset class, a dangerous bubble can result.
Posted: May 12, 2011, 5:30 pm
It might be supremely patriotic to stop purchasing imports, but the consequences for US consumers and the economy would be devastating.
Posted: May 12, 2011, 3:31 pm
Keeping an eye on certain numbers can help you make an educated guess about where your local real-estate market is headed.
Posted: May 11, 2011, 1:36 pm
The Oracle of Omaha cultivates a contrarian streak, which he credits with much of his success as a stock-picker. Opportunists looking to pounce on oversold shares may want to consider these companies.
Posted: May 11, 2011, 12:53 pm
The flashy billionaire's interest in the presidency may be serious. So we should take a serious look at his business history and his ideas for running the country.
Posted: May 11, 2011, 11:49 am
Some state schools are rejecting in-state applicants in favor of less qualified out-of-state students for one reason: Money.
Posted: May 10, 2011, 5:32 pm
Wall Street is getting ready for a pullback, and so should you. Here are strategies to help you get defensive, protect your portfolio and save your nest egg.
Posted: May 10, 2011, 1:09 pm
It's likely that just half of the index's top-performing stocks this year are headed higher, a money manager says.
Posted: May 10, 2011, 11:48 am
The timeline for buying stocks in developing countries has splintered. Buy Chile first, then Brazil and later (maybe much later), China.
Posted: May 9, 2011, 5:55 pm
Demand is rising along with prices in this seller's market, so it's not the best time to purchase a new vehicle. But consumers could find reasons to buy not far down the road.
Posted: May 9, 2011, 11:24 am
Gas prices are rising again. Going car-free might be easier than you think. How does saving $7,000 to $12,000 a year sound?
Posted: May 6, 2011, 1:01 pm
Each of the automotive giants has stumbled and vowed to make the painful changes needed to return to glory. Is it too early for investors to buy in?
Posted: May 6, 2011, 12:15 pm
While it benefits from the same factors driving gold higher, silver is much more susceptible to volatility and speculation. Also: The tech earnings picture.
Posted: May 6, 2011, 11:11 am
As investors get more defensive, stocks with high dividends are starting to outperform. Ambev, Merck and Abbott Laboratories are worth considering.
Posted: May 5, 2011, 7:01 pm
The citation itself might not seem all that expensive, but the effect it can have on your auto insurance rates will surprise you.
Posted: May 5, 2011, 12:12 pm
A move to limit speculative activity sparked this week's sell-off, which occurred as some prominent investors were booking profits on their precious-metals plays.
Posted: May 5, 2011, 11:21 am
Attending college abroad can cost less than going to a private institution in the US -- and that's not the only benefit.
Posted: May 4, 2011, 1:52 pm
You might end up with a bigger bank account, but you'll be all the poorer for it.
Posted: May 4, 2011, 1:22 pm
The 'QE2' project was supposed to ease borrowing and get consumers to spend again. Instead, it has benefited only a few while raising most people's cost of living.
Posted: May 4, 2011, 11:24 am
If you're not careful when you switch employers, you could run the risk of damaging your nest egg.
Posted: May 3, 2011, 2:29 pm
Empowered by new rules, some shareholders are starting to say 'no' to lavish packages -- and companies are learning to be more careful about what they ask for.
Posted: May 3, 2011, 12:57 pm
The reasons for high rates vary among states, but one thing is constant: Uninsured drivers are dinging the rest.
Posted: May 3, 2011, 12:09 pm
Unmarried people face greater challenges in saving for a comfortable retirement, but careful planning can help make it happen
Posted: May 3, 2011, 11:11 am
The euro's crisis has kept it cheap and been a boon to some European manufacturers. Your portfolio should have exposure to select European export stocks like Germany's Siemens and Aixtron.
Posted: May 2, 2011, 7:01 pm
It was once the undisputed champ in the field of actively managed mutual funds. But that whole field is past its heyday, and Magellan has become notorious as a loser.
Posted: May 2, 2011, 11:19 am
The rising price of end-of-life care threatens family savings and complicates efforts to reduce the federal budget.
Posted: April 29, 2011, 7:27 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: April 29, 2011, 4:33 pm
It's psychologically difficult to own out-of-favor securities, yet potentially rewarding. Consider silver not long ago -- or Microsoft today.
Posted: April 29, 2011, 12:12 pm
Even with its many risks and lack of transparency, the world's No. 2 economy is too big and growing too quickly to ignore. Here's how investors can ease their way into the Chinese market.
Posted: April 29, 2011, 11:14 am
Companies are reporting stellar results. But drill down in the numbers and you find those companies benefiting from temporary tax breaks and facing climbing costs. Stock pickers need to be extra-choosy.
Posted: April 28, 2011, 7:01 pm
Psst, want skimmers? Hot bank account numbers? Card cloners? Here's a price list.
Posted: April 28, 2011, 11:38 am
Rising prices and static incomes are hitting older Americans hard, forcing further cutbacks in already-frugal lifestyles.
Posted: April 27, 2011, 1:06 pm
Banks analyze reams of data about consumers' shopping habits in an effort to spot bogus charges, but they're walking a fine line between curbing fraud and annoying their customers.
Posted: April 27, 2011, 12:13 pm
The stock market can ignore economic woes and worries for only so long. Here's why a pullback is on the horizon and the smart money is preparing for the worst, as well as several ways to get defensive.
Posted: April 27, 2011, 12:02 pm
This is 'good' debt, right? Will you still feel that way when you're still paying it off decades from now?
Posted: April 27, 2011, 11:44 am
In places where lots of people were already struggling, the big spike in fuel costs is much more than an economic nuisance. It's painful and scary.
Posted: April 26, 2011, 1:02 pm
With the global economy looking uncontrollable and unpredictable, investors can't get enough of the shiny metal. And increasingly they prefer physical gold.
Posted: April 26, 2011, 11:28 am
By taking a weak stance on inflation, China is inviting political unrest. That sets it on a dangerous course of greater political repression and even less action on inflation.
Posted: April 25, 2011, 7:01 pm
Where you live can make a big difference in how much you pay in taxes. So can whether you smoke and how you get to work in the morning.
Posted: April 25, 2011, 1:06 pm
Why do big companies with good profits often get little respect from Wall Street? Investors may expect these giants to stumble like many in the past.
Posted: April 25, 2011, 11:36 am
The gala event for Prince William and Kate Middleton demands perfection -- and that costs big bucks (or, as the British would say, a lot of pounds).
Posted: April 25, 2011, 11:14 am
The latest week of earnings brought good tidings for tech, but it also carried a stern warning from S&P about approaching US debt and credit risks.
Posted: April 22, 2011, 12:28 pm
Larry Page, who co-founded the search giant, doesn't shy away from projects he calls risky and 'even strange.' Critics say this approach hurts profitability.
Posted: April 22, 2011, 12:10 pm
Credit rating agencies are more worried than ever about America's fiscal health. Now it's time for you to act as your own credit rating agency. Here are 4 categories to help you invest abroad.
Posted: April 21, 2011, 4:00 pm
S&P analysts issued a warning this week that we have to control our debt or face a credit meltdown. Here's why austerity is our best choice, and how to get ready for it.
Posted: April 20, 2011, 1:40 pm
If the value of your home has sunk, officials should lighten your tax burden accordingly. But if they're not aware of the change, here's how to call it to their attention.
Posted: April 20, 2011, 12:57 pm
Exchange-traded funds let ordinary investors try strategies that used to be just too much trouble. But critics fear they encourage risk-taking.
Posted: April 20, 2011, 12:00 pm
If you're quickly approaching retirement and haven't saved as much as you think you'll need, here are some ways to make what savings you do have last longer.
Posted: April 20, 2011, 11:23 am
A Wall Street research firm is tracking four key indicators for signs that the bull market is on its last legs. Here's what to look for.
Posted: April 19, 2011, 2:43 pm
With fewer jobs and opportunities, budgets are being stretched by the rising cost of everything. Hard spending cuts might not be enough.
Posted: April 19, 2011, 12:46 pm
The end of the Fed's program of quantitative easing will bring plenty of bumps, but it won't crash the US economy. Emerging markets could be in for a rockier road.
Posted: April 18, 2011, 7:16 pm
Medical marijuana is big business. Some governments are taking a sympathetic approach to it, and some investors smell an opportunity. But there's a problem hanging in the air: Pot is still illegal.
Posted: April 18, 2011, 3:31 pm
Low interest rates and a rebounding economy make now a good time to ignore a few old-school financial axioms – and reap benefits such as more savings and less debt.
Posted: April 18, 2011, 12:12 pm
5 trends this spring suggest that costs to borrowers will be on the rise.
Posted: April 18, 2011, 12:00 pm
Stocks climbed a wall of worry in late March, but short interest in these companies is a sign that their shares could be in for harrowing declines.
Posted: April 18, 2011, 11:09 am
Fears of inflation and global turmoil have sent precious metals surging, with gold trading at all-time highs above $1,500 an ounce. How much further can it climb?
Posted: April 18, 2011, 11:04 am
I expect trouble ahead for the market, so short selling may soon look tempting. But be warned: It is not as easy as it looks.
Posted: April 15, 2011, 7:07 pm
Advice on when you can get the best deals on a new vehicle is plentiful -- and often wrong. Here's what you really need to know to save money.
Posted: April 15, 2011, 1:59 pm
Government takes a cut of just about anything involving money -- and that raises the cost to you. There's the broom tax, the girdle tax, the tackle box tax . . .
Posted: April 15, 2011, 1:19 pm
The graft and corruption plaguing China’s railway system are not what worry me -- it’s the misallocation of capital. China may not unseat the US as the world’s largest economy as soon as expected.
Posted: April 14, 2011, 4:16 pm
If you're trying to sell your home, a run-down or messy house nearby can cost you some serious money. Here's what you can do about it.
Posted: April 14, 2011, 2:23 pm
These low-cost exchange-traded funds provide exposure to a variety of asset classes, including U.S. and international stocks, commodities and fixed-income instruments.
Posted: April 14, 2011, 11:27 am
It's hard to argue with steady cash. These companies have raised their dividend payouts every year for at least the last quarter-century.
Posted: April 13, 2011, 12:19 pm
Federal Reserve policies aimed at stimulating the economy have many retirees worrying that their savings won't see them through.
Posted: April 13, 2011, 12:10 pm
If the dog ate your W-2, don't worry. It's no problem to get a six-month extension on filing your return. But if you owe Uncle Sam anything, he wants his money pronto.
Posted: April 13, 2011, 11:35 am
If you understand what your homeowners policy covers and how to properly document damage from a disaster, you're more likely to get what you're owed.
Posted: April 13, 2011, 11:07 am
Once again, hot money is pouring into tech startups. And, as with the dot-com bubble that burst in 2000, the ramifications would extend beyond the investing elite.
Posted: April 12, 2011, 2:54 pm
Whether it's fair or not, the company to blame for last year's epic oil disaster is recovering faster than the environment. The simple reason is that the world needs energy.
Posted: April 12, 2011, 11:24 am
I told you months ago to shift your portfolio to emerging markets in the spring. Here, I’ve found some good stocks to consider. The trouble is, individual investors can’t always buy the best ones.
Posted: April 11, 2011, 7:03 pm
Well, maybe you want all 3, but chances are you're looking at a single big purchase right now. Whatever it is, this guide can help you decide if it's affordable.
Posted: April 11, 2011, 12:48 pm
These tradable bundles have real virtues, as many investors have learned. But if you think they're all ideal for tax purposes, you're buying into a major myth.
Posted: April 11, 2011, 12:23 pm
Getting hitched can mean not only increased income but lower costs and more opportunities to save money.
Posted: April 11, 2011, 12:04 pm
Debt is down overall, but cities in Texas, Georgia, Florida struggle with high balances.
Posted: April 11, 2011, 10:56 am
Couples face complicated decisions when one is ready to stop working while the other can't.
Posted: April 8, 2011, 12:57 pm
A sobering look at federal spending from bond king Bill Gross suggests there are several creative ways to default on our national debt, and we are working toward all of them.
Posted: April 8, 2011, 11:34 am
The slick sales pitch for a fund usually leaves out the facts you really need, and that's not by accident. Pose these tough questions before you invest.
Posted: April 8, 2011, 11:08 am
With central banks in developing countries raising rates, investors should consider moving assets back into emerging market stocks.
Posted: April 7, 2011, 7:07 pm
On the prowl to replace lost income, banks are seeking a bigger slice of the growing, $2.9 trillion 401k pie.
Posted: April 6, 2011, 2:21 pm
With all the great tools available, it may be easier than ever to get rich doing your own investing. But you have to invest time as well as money.
Posted: April 6, 2011, 1:35 pm
After a lull, emerging markets once again look like the place for smart investors. Here's why, along with several funds and 3 hot stocks to help you get in on the action.
Posted: April 6, 2011, 12:23 pm
It's a slow process, and any missteps will make it even slower. Unfortunately, some of your assumptions about how credit scores work may be wrong.
Posted: April 6, 2011, 11:33 am
True, blue chips from India are not cheap. But there is a host of emerging Indian companies that offer growth at a bargain price -- and I expect many of them to start trading in New York soon.
Posted: April 5, 2011, 4:00 pm
The human tragedy remains front and center, but the long and costly rebuilding will begin eventually. There's more than $300 billion in work to be done, and these companies will likely take part.
Posted: April 5, 2011, 12:28 pm
With music, merchandising and reality TV already under his belt, the Kiss rocker turns to a new venture targeting the superrich.
Posted: April 4, 2011, 11:59 am
Investors seeking long-term results should look beyond today's upheavals. These top mutual funds for various asset classes have proved their staying power.
Posted: April 4, 2011, 11:25 am
It's a game of wits between you and the folks who handle your money. They have some new moves, but with the right countermoves, you can win -- and save.
Posted: April 4, 2011, 11:02 am
Many trappings of adulthood seem to be vanishing for those now under 35. But these 3 principles can help get a grown-up life on track.
Posted: April 1, 2011, 4:06 pm
A provision in the health care overhaul encourages people with flexible spending accounts to seek a doctor's OK before buying over-the-counter medications.
Posted: April 1, 2011, 1:12 pm
Fiscal discipline is a political liability in our bailout era, making money printing the more likely course. This may boost stocks even as it erodes purchasing power.
Posted: April 1, 2011, 12:37 pm
If the plan you depended on fell apart when hard times struck, you have to come up with a new plan. That may be easier said than done, but it's far from impossible.
Posted: April 1, 2011, 11:37 am
Don't be too dazzled by the market stars and their soaring profits. Many companies in the consumer sector are struggling and increasingly being left behind.
Posted: April 1, 2011, 11:24 am
Children are priceless, but raising them is one of the most expensive things you'll ever do. Here's how much it costs, along with some strategies for lowering expenses.
Posted: March 31, 2011, 7:33 pm
For most of us, it's just a dream, but these people were inventive, entrepreneurial or just plain lucky enough to suddenly strike it rich.
Posted: March 31, 2011, 7:27 pm
It sounds easier to find a rich man than to find your own way financially. But I've got a 2-step plan that will make you both richer and happier.
Posted: March 31, 2011, 7:06 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: March 31, 2011, 5:18 pm
There are ways to let children and teens deal with finances -- and to monitor their spending -- while keeping them on a short leash. But be sure to read the fine print.
Posted: March 30, 2011, 7:35 pm
Unsolicited offers of assistance, including rogue tow trucks and medical help, can be warning signs of insurance fraud. If you didn't request it, reject it.
Posted: March 30, 2011, 3:33 pm
More people are refusing to wait until 65, opting for reduced benefits right away. Are they ahead of the curve or just hurting themselves?
Posted: March 30, 2011, 12:55 pm
While we wade through the economic mud of a weak recovery, our leaders dither. These steps from a think tank may not hold all the answers, but they could be a start.
Posted: March 30, 2011, 11:27 am
Your plan looks good on paper, but did you think of everything? Be ready for these expenses, which are often unpredictable but always possible.
Posted: March 29, 2011, 12:12 pm
The domestic goddess and former CEO has fueled criticism and raised investors' doubts by moving off network TV and out of Kmart. But is the best still to come for her company?
Posted: March 29, 2011, 11:11 am
Lately, this precious metal has gained value faster than even its ancient rival, gold. But history and hard facts suggest the streak won't last.
Posted: March 28, 2011, 10:15 pm
Two couples share tips on owning a home, raising kids and enjoying life on a modest income. It doesn't require huge sacrifices, but you have to be focused.
Posted: March 28, 2011, 4:14 pm
Here are 6 questions you and your partner need to ask each other before you share a credit card. If you don't, you could be in for money trouble and heartache.
Posted: March 28, 2011, 12:59 pm
Armed conflicts and natural disasters like those now rocking Japan and the Middle East are facts of life. But dangerous places also create new financial opportunities.
Posted: March 28, 2011, 12:51 pm
Some faults may disappear with age, but poor money habits often linger on, and they hurt even more on a fixed income. Luckily, it's never too late to wise up.
Posted: March 28, 2011, 11:15 am
Banks and the Fed helped paper them over, but deep problems remain for the real estate market. And they could soon trigger even more financial turmoil.
Posted: March 25, 2011, 1:36 pm
Stocks in this emerging giant come in three distinct types. Knowing which is which can make a big difference in how you play them and how much you make.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 7:07 pm
The idea is intriguing, but you wonder about cost. And just how different is driving a plug-in? Here's a frank point-by-point comparison with other vehicles.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 12:39 pm
You don't need a boost from your employer to take charge of your retirement. These 6 tips can help you craft an after-work life that's even more golden.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 12:15 pm
The bull market has had two impressive years. Understandably, investors worry that it will soon end, but an expert says the evidence suggests otherwise.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 12:01 pm
If you have wealth, big dreams and a willingness to take risks, you could become an 'angel' investor for a startup. Tax breaks are luring more people to try it.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 12:00 pm
He was behind the most notoriously inaccurate forecast in recent financial history. But is it possible that James K. Glassman is talking good sense now?
Posted: March 24, 2011, 12:00 pm
'Forever' isn't just for stamps. A long-term investor's portfolio needs a solid core of keepers, and these proven companies fill the bill perfectly.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 11:19 am
Could a machine study a conference call and rate the ability of the boss? See what software developed by ex-spies says about executives at some top companies.
Posted: March 24, 2011, 9:26 am
If certain other people drive badly -- or even if they might -- your own rates can rise. It may sound unfair, but to insurers it's a simple matter of probabilities.
Posted: March 23, 2011, 1:31 pm
If it's a target-date fund, that's a good question to ask. The 2008 crisis exploded the myth that these 'set and forget' investments are all equally safe.
Posted: March 23, 2011, 1:12 pm
Why do they see this affable 'granny' as a threat? She wants a consumer-friendly financial industry and may soon have the power to bring it about.
Posted: March 23, 2011, 11:31 am
We're depending on the House of Saud to replace lost Libyan oil. We also need the Saudis to quiet political unrest in the Persian Gulf. The future of the economy depends on it.
Posted: March 23, 2011, 11:06 am
A specialized trust lets you stay in your home but pass along ownership early, avoiding some of the tax problems involved with inheritance.
Posted: March 22, 2011, 12:33 pm
Why did the value of the yen reach new highs at the same time the risk of Japan defaulting on mountains of debt soared? The answer to that shows why Japan still needs to buy plenty of U.S. debt.
Posted: March 21, 2011, 7:09 pm
US currency will remain important, but its global dominance may be over soon. Fast-rising foreign currencies offer increasing investment opportunities.
Posted: March 21, 2011, 12:19 pm
Don't let your dream trip turn into a nightmare. Follow these 10 steps to protect your personal information when you're away from home.
Posted: March 21, 2011, 11:31 am
Everybody knows driving drunk is wrong and stupid, but it's also increasingly expensive. Calculating the costs could be enough to sober some people up.
Posted: March 21, 2011, 11:26 am
A good pre-owned vehicle is usually a better deal than a new one. But lemons are lurking out there, so do your homework and know the warning signs.
Posted: March 21, 2011, 11:23 am
A hospital is supposed to make you better, but you may not feel too well after reading this. Some words of advice: Be your own health care advocate.
Posted: March 18, 2011, 9:17 pm
Depending on your medical needs, you have several levels of health care available, from relatively inexpensive retail clinics to lifesaving, but expensive, emergency rooms.
Posted: March 18, 2011, 9:16 pm
Drugstore clinics are undeniably convenient, and universal health care could mean primary care doctors are overloaded. What can you expect from a retail-based clinic?
Posted: March 18, 2011, 9:14 pm
Think that insurers are what make coverage so expensive? Think Canadians have it better or that your company's plan is the cheapest for you? Think again.
Posted: March 18, 2011, 9:13 pm
The natural disaster and nuclear crisis there rightly get the most attention, but battered Japan could soon face big troubles stemming from its currency. Here's why.
Posted: March 18, 2011, 12:27 pm
Paying off those credit cards is important, but if it causes you to neglect other important goals, you should consider tempering your zeal.
Posted: March 18, 2011, 11:58 am
With multiple crises still unfolding there, the ripple effects will spread worldwide. Our recovery looks wobbly, and even a double-dip recession is possible.
Posted: March 18, 2011, 11:45 am
Increasing use of mobile-payment tags and chips in smart phones raises fears about out-of-control spending.
Posted: March 17, 2011, 12:20 pm
Retail investors increasingly are trading foreign currencies. But mutual funds like those run by Axel Merk offer another international option.
Posted: March 17, 2011, 11:56 am
Insurance applicants often fudge on issues ranging from DUIs to drug use. But it's hard to hide baldfaced lies -- even though some folks go so far as shaving their heads.
Posted: March 16, 2011, 2:32 pm
How do you know if you have the right coverage? Here's a quick look at all of the options: term, whole, variable and universal.
Posted: March 16, 2011, 1:45 pm
An epic natural disaster triggers a nuclear power catastrophe. Can the weakest economy in the developed world rebound -- or will the world economy sink with it?
Posted: March 16, 2011, 11:39 am
Commentators need to be sensitive to the fact that what's happening to victims of events in the Middle East, Japan and elsewhere is far worse than the effects on our pocketbooks.
Posted: March 15, 2011, 3:33 pm
When you finally face the financial mess you've gotten yourself into, you may feel dumb and desperate. But getting out of denial is the first step toward fixing things.
Posted: March 15, 2011, 1:54 pm
Think the US economy no longer has what it takes to lead the world? Consider these five examples of American entrepreneurship and innovation, and you might have to think again.
Posted: March 15, 2011, 12:00 pm
Pimco's Bill Gross just made what looks like a very smart move to get out of Treasury bonds. Here are 3 lessons from his move and 4 ways it could play out in his favor.
Posted: March 14, 2011, 7:05 pm
The retailer known for its giant stores tries cozier markets for shoppers in a hurry. But is the convenience worth it when supercenters are more profitable?
Posted: March 14, 2011, 4:09 pm
The big and restless baby boom generation is reshaping living arrangements as its members begin to step into retirement. Is one of these approaches right for you?
Posted: March 11, 2011, 2:57 pm
It's the new magic number, the supposed threshold of wealth in America. But is a family with that income really rich? Can it even make ends meet?
Posted: March 11, 2011, 1:15 pm
As a historic stock-market rally heads into its 3rd year, U.S. stock investors are hoping the bull has further to run. But big returns may not as easy to come by.
Posted: March 11, 2011, 12:39 pm
You don't really need to keep those towering piles of paper records. Here are tips on what you should throw out and how to organize what you should keep.
Posted: March 11, 2011, 12:10 pm
As the market struggles while ignoring bad news, the easy-money days are coming to an end. The Street's best hope for more liquidity to help it climb higher is to go lower first.
Posted: March 11, 2011, 11:43 am
China's latest five-year plan should lead to a much larger consumer economy and plenty of new investing themes. Here, I give you 10 stocks to consider.
Posted: March 10, 2011, 7:02 pm
Look at history, not headlines. Once the turmoil in North Africa and the Mideast ends, oil prices will fall back as they always do, burning impulsive investors.
Posted: March 10, 2011, 12:44 pm
Yes, there are some places where even bill collectors won't follow you. But if you decide simply to leave your debts behind, find out how the living will be affected.
Posted: March 10, 2011, 12:31 pm
Reassurances from the Fed on down about low inflation and falling unemployment are ringing hollow as stagflation looms. They aren’t fooling us, but they might be kidding themselves.
Posted: March 9, 2011, 3:31 pm
Reverse mortgages have had a shady reputation, but they can keep some aging homeowners out of the poorhouse. Take a look at what these loans are like now.
Posted: March 9, 2011, 2:57 pm
People who spend their working hours behind the wheel know they're always a short distance from danger. They've learned some surprising ways to reduce the risks.
Posted: March 8, 2011, 1:17 pm
In theory, investors in exchange-traded funds and notes shouldn't care about brands. So how do these companies continue to beat a bevy of competitors?
Posted: March 8, 2011, 11:37 am
Expectations for domestic growth could soon get a reality check, so it's time to plan investment moves to dodge a possible correction. Start with emerging markets.
Posted: March 7, 2011, 7:03 pm
The bullish forecasts are dangerously wrong. Psychologically, it's hard for investors to ignore the happy talk and pull back from the market, but they should do so soon.
Posted: March 7, 2011, 1:02 pm
If it took you a long time to climb out of the credit pit, the last thing you want is to fall back in. Experts offer techniques for staying in command of your money.
Posted: March 7, 2011, 12:55 pm
Real estate agents get better deals for themselves than for their clients. To be a smarter seller, look at your home through an agent's eyes.
Posted: March 7, 2011, 11:29 am
Many mutual funds are closed to new money. Others have high minimum contributions that put the funds out of reach for most investors.
Posted: March 4, 2011, 12:26 pm
The start of a new month didn't bring out the buyers the way we've seen before in this easy-money rally. And that could be how the end begins.
Posted: March 4, 2011, 12:05 pm
Stocks didn't crater during Egypt's revolution, but there are plenty of signs suggesting that Libya's turmoil could lead to more pain, even if Gadhafi remains.
Posted: March 3, 2011, 7:07 pm
Thanks to the health care reform law, many preventive tests and screenings are now available at no cost. Make sure you qualify before signing up.
Posted: March 3, 2011, 4:52 pm
Gold prices are poised to slide 20% or more, says Jim Lowell, the editor of a newsletter that tracks exchange-traded funds. He also offers picks and pans for stocks and funds.
Posted: March 3, 2011, 12:26 pm
By twisting the facts of an accident, they can blame the victim and avoid having to pay up. And even if the trick finally fails, it can still be profitable.
Posted: March 3, 2011, 12:17 pm
With inflation on the upswing and home prices still subdued, becoming a renter is no longer the bargain it was in recent years.
Posted: March 3, 2011, 11:07 am
It's tempting to shop for bargains in a down market. But make sure the investment makes sense for your situation.
Posted: March 2, 2011, 2:49 pm
The economy is looking up. But the latest numbers show ever more clearly why, if you're on the lower rungs, things haven't improved. Conditions are now changing, though.
Posted: March 2, 2011, 2:25 pm
As events in Egypt and Libya show, countries with a young population may face unrest, but they also benefit from faster economic growth. And that can mean more opportunity for investors.
Posted: March 1, 2011, 7:00 pm
Big gaps exist between savings and what Americans need to support themselves in retirement. Many started saving too late, and the financial crisis has made thing worse.
Posted: March 1, 2011, 6:54 pm
Life would go on, but it wouldn't be the kind of life we would like. It's time to start preparing for possibilities that used to sound like fiction.
Posted: March 1, 2011, 11:53 am
Unrest in key oil-producing nations opens the door to price spikes that could push gas to $7 a gallon and spin the world back into recession. Here's how we'd get there, and how to protect your portfolio.
Posted: March 1, 2011, 11:19 am
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, identifies companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: February 28, 2011, 6:15 pm
Sometimes help comes from unexpected places. Did you know you can use the tax code to help reduce the cost of your children's education? Here's an easy lesson.
Posted: February 28, 2011, 1:21 pm
A federal watchdog says the Credit CARD Act has helped consumers during its first year, but admits many people still don't understand the law. Do you?
Posted: February 25, 2011, 11:39 pm
A spike in oil prices means higher inflation, which makes it much harder for governments to slow growth without tanking their economies.
Posted: February 25, 2011, 7:05 pm
My bank makes it easy to check account balances, pay bills and transfer money using a smart phone. And I do all those things, although I'm not sure I should.
Posted: February 25, 2011, 3:00 pm
Familiar names and past glories have a lot of appeal. But if a mutual fund's performance no longer lives up to its shiny reputation, investors should take heed.
Posted: February 25, 2011, 1:03 pm
When stocks are driven higher by central bank money-printing, they also get riskier. That's exactly what is happening now, and it's sure to end badly.
Posted: February 25, 2011, 11:53 am
If you have good credit and a clean driving record, you can save hundreds in premiums. But shop carefully before switching carriers.
Posted: February 24, 2011, 2:27 pm
Experts see a trend toward rising prices, and you see the signs in your daily life. Here are 4 investment vehicles that can help ward off the inflationary dragon.
Posted: February 24, 2011, 12:41 pm
Some financial advice is considered conventional wisdom. But what's a good idea for one person could prove disastrous for another.
Posted: February 23, 2011, 2:58 pm
Fierce criticism that students have been left with big debts and dashed dreams has inspired reforms and left the industry on the run. That's an opportunity for investors.
Posted: February 23, 2011, 12:51 pm
Don't despair if you've waited longer than you should have to save up for retirement. You're not alone, and it's not too late. But now you have to get really serious.
Posted: February 23, 2011, 11:59 am
The merits of elite schools are open to debate, but there's no question that a college education is now essential -- and that aspiring students need to set practical goals.
Posted: February 23, 2011, 11:37 am
Investors and experts are ultrabullish, corporate profits are at historic highs and earnings growth is blazing. But a rising tide of problems suggests things have gone too far. Here's how to protect yourself.
Posted: February 22, 2011, 2:38 pm
It's a long climb back if your portfolio takes a tumble, so pick your funds carefully. Here are some that are just wrong for the average investor.
Posted: February 22, 2011, 12:42 pm
You or your parents may be shelling out thousands of dollars for the big event. If it goes bust, you could face a huge financial loss.
Posted: February 22, 2011, 11:05 am
Getting into a stock early is good. Getting in too early can be painful. Getting it right requires that you not fool yourself before you jump in.
Posted: February 21, 2011, 7:03 pm
The mortgage giants that badly wounded the housing market are now crucial to keeping it alive. So the government has to prop them up, and the joke's on the taxpayer.
Posted: February 21, 2011, 12:12 pm
Prior debts may not fall on you, but those issues aren't the real problem. The big issue is sharing your life with someone who wildly mismanages money.
Posted: February 21, 2011, 11:31 am
Major oil companies are struggling to obtain new reserves. I suggest looking at some oil producer and oil services stocks, which will benefit from their search.
Posted: February 18, 2011, 7:01 pm
Maybe barely -- and maybe not. But if you have to try, as millions of Americans do, you'll need to understand every trick for stretching your income.
Posted: February 18, 2011, 12:13 pm
You don't have to work until you're 85, but you do need to start putting some money aside for retirement. Luckily, there are sources of free money that can help your nest egg grow.
Posted: February 18, 2011, 12:10 pm
The company took a beating over earnings, but investors still bid up its rivals. Such disconnects illustrate the effects of too much free money.
Posted: February 18, 2011, 12:09 pm
You may be able to get cash by selling your life insurance policy to an investor. Here's how to find out whether it's a smart move.
Posted: February 18, 2011, 11:21 am
You can finish your career as a millionaire if you start out smart and stay on the right path. Life will be sweeter just as you're getting more time to enjoy it.
Posted: February 16, 2011, 4:32 pm
Red-hot growth in emerging markets could cool as policymakers try to tame inflation. Investors chasing opportunities must remain vigilant to new risks.
Posted: February 16, 2011, 1:42 pm
Don't get caught investing in developing markets until it is clear that interest rate hikes have tamed inflation. India and Brazil may be safe by June; other emerging nations likely have more pain ahead.
Posted: February 15, 2011, 7:00 pm
Here are 5 ways to ensure you're doing serious damage to your finances -- plus more tips for ruining your life.
Posted: February 15, 2011, 1:35 pm
The Apple bandwagon is rolling like a chariot, and investors are lining up to jump aboard. Nobody can see all the way down the road, especially in the tech world, but for the near future at least, the epic roll seems likely to continue.
Posted: February 15, 2011, 1:10 pm
Want to quit the work force 2 to 5 years ahead of the crowd? The formula is surprisingly simple, if you have the discipline and don't start too late.
Posted: February 14, 2011, 2:03 pm
Stability predicts good performance, and T. Rowe Price tops Morningstar’s list of its most consistent US fund managers. But global expansion could alter the corporate culture.
Posted: February 14, 2011, 12:22 pm
Water shortages threaten hundreds of millions of people the world around. Believe it or not, there is a way to invest in this trend. Hint: Consider ripple effects.
Posted: February 11, 2011, 7:02 pm
Can't pay back what you owe? It's important to know what steps you can take legally to protect yourself and what steps could get you into deeper trouble.
Posted: February 11, 2011, 12:58 pm
The economics of streaming video is far different from that of DVD rentals. And there are formidable rivals in the digital-media space.
Posted: February 11, 2011, 12:36 pm
Ben Bernanke seems to have won his imaginary battle with deflation, but he (like many others) seems oblivious to the real threat of inflation.
Posted: February 11, 2011, 12:11 pm
Investors have reason to favor companies that consistently raise their dividends over an extended period of time. Applying this easy blueprint can lead you to them.
Posted: February 10, 2011, 12:55 pm
Posted: February 9, 2011, 4:56 pm
New laws mean more consumers will be able to learn about their ratings -- crucial to getting the best credit deals -- but unfettered access is still a ways off.
Posted: February 9, 2011, 4:28 pm
Surging food prices are nipping wallets here and driving serious upheaval around the globe. Here’s why prices will keep rising -- and how to invest for this trend.
Posted: February 9, 2011, 11:43 am
Middle-aged parents who've lost their jobs or savings are turning to their adult children for help. Plus: 6 things to ask before agreeing to co-sign.
Posted: February 8, 2011, 9:30 pm
Taxes, Medicare and Social Security are among the unresolved financial issues facing retirees planning for their golden years.
Posted: February 8, 2011, 5:00 pm
American Eagle Outfitters, Petrohawk Energy and 5 others could be ripe acquisition targets. But profiting as an investor won't be easy.
Posted: February 8, 2011, 1:08 pm
Neighbor-to-neighbor rental programs are springing up in several cities. Instead of just sitting there, your vehicle can make you money.
Posted: February 8, 2011, 11:56 am
The king of discount retail has given competitors an opening with store renovations that backfired and less-aggressive pricing. But Wal-Mart has a plan to get its growth back.
Posted: February 8, 2011, 11:55 am
Short-term volatility can test an investor's mettle. But if you get in during a boom cycle, like copper and iron ore are in today, you can win big. Here's how.
Posted: February 7, 2011, 8:02 pm
Data that now must be disclosed by the biggest foreign-exchange brokerages show that the majority of retail customers lost money in the fourth quarter of 2010.
Posted: February 7, 2011, 12:47 pm
Find buying a house on clearance appealing? You’ll need plenty of patience and some expert help, but the house you get could make it worth it.
Posted: February 7, 2011, 12:20 pm
Borrowers who are in over their heads with debt often struggle with the morality of filing for bankruptcy. But should you feel guilty if there's really no other logical option?
Posted: February 4, 2011, 12:31 pm
An Internet security expert explains just how vulnerable your online accounts are. He also provides tips on making passwords more secure.
Posted: February 4, 2011, 12:23 pm
The political crises sweeping the Middle East join the risks of unresolved economic issues at home. Yet speculators continue to run wild. How long can this go on?
Posted: February 4, 2011, 12:14 pm
Chicken wings, used cars and boarder duds? Investors trying to catch consumer trends might consider investing in these three companies.
Posted: February 4, 2011, 11:25 am
For this stage in the economic cycle, the sector to add to your portfolio is one you may not be familiar with, so start learning. Here are several stocks to choose from.
Posted: February 3, 2011, 7:04 pm
Disciplined investors should resist the temptation to jump in while stocks are hot. Here are 7 tips for staying cool and remaining focused.
Posted: February 3, 2011, 12:33 pm
Your survivors will have enough on their minds when you die, so take steps now to ensure that they’ll be able to access your digital accounts.
Posted: February 2, 2011, 5:04 pm
To really get on track, take the longer view. Below, 4 people open up about their money challenges. Maybe you see yourself in one of them.
Posted: February 2, 2011, 4:59 pm
The Motor City giant now sells more cars in China than in the U.S., and that market could restore its title as the world's top seller of cars. Turns out the Chinese love Buicks and Chevys.
Posted: February 2, 2011, 1:45 pm
Much talk in Washington is centered on ending stimulus efforts and cutting the deficit. The debt binge can't go on forever, but is it too soon for the economy to stand on its own?
Posted: February 2, 2011, 12:11 pm
Hoping for more name recognition or business, some little-known ventures risk major capital to connect with a larger customer base. Is it worth it?
Posted: February 1, 2011, 5:12 pm
Anyone who doesn't own the place they live is the short answer. But 3 particular groups are most likely to be without coverage. Make sure those you love are protected.
Posted: February 1, 2011, 5:02 pm
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, can help investors find companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.
Posted: February 1, 2011, 5:00 pm
The Oracle's respect for business people he trusts -- and who trust him -- allows Buffett to buy into top companies on favorable terms.
Posted: February 1, 2011, 4:46 pm
Before you sign up for extended coverage, find out which products are most likely to break down. And then make sure you understand what you're getting.
Posted: February 1, 2011, 12:07 pm
Soaring food prices and high unemployment have combined explosively in Egypt -- and are a global threat. Don't bet on thoughtful governmental responses.
Posted: January 31, 2011, 4:04 pm
A spendthrift spouse may not be cause for separation. There are ways for cooperative and communicative partners to work as a team.
Posted: January 31, 2011, 12:41 pm
Borrowing quick cash from a 401k plan isn’t always a bad idea. These 6 questions can help you figure out if it's the right move.
Posted: January 28, 2011, 1:33 pm
The battle boils down to interest-rate expectations for Europe and the United States. And the eurozone may have the upper hand -- for now.
Posted: January 28, 2011, 12:47 pm
Star status won't pay the mortgage -- and some celebrities have seen the foreclosure epidemic firsthand. Here are 5 who lost their homes.
Posted: January 28, 2011, 12:46 pm
The U.S. remains mired in the early stages of a recovery, while emerging markets are speeding into later stages. Knowing how to bridge the gap is key to picking stocks now.
Posted: January 27, 2011, 2:50 pm
Private data, including credit card numbers, can go public quickly from your corner coffee shop. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.
Posted: January 27, 2011, 12:27 pm
Aiming for a bigger slice of the mutual fund market, the ETF industry is introducing funds run by portfolio managers. Should you invest?
Posted: January 26, 2011, 5:59 pm
House Republicans have voted to repeal the health care reforms that became law last year -- an effort likely to go nowhere. But that's not opponents' only strategy.
Posted: January 26, 2011, 5:58 pm
On the heels of a big upswing, nervous investors are coming back to stocks. But too many are diving in just in time for a big correction.
Posted: January 26, 2011, 3:45 pm
Dismiss the Super Bowl indicator at your peril. If enough people believe the market will head in a certain direction, it will.
Posted: January 26, 2011, 12:58 pm
The days when you couldn't go wrong in real estate are long gone, but that doesn't mean homeownership is a mistake. Here's how to get it right.
Posted: January 26, 2011, 12:34 pm
What you think you know about your credit scores is probably wrong -- and that can cost you. Arm yourself against 5 common misconceptions.
Posted: January 26, 2011, 12:05 pm
Overlooking discounts or failing to comparison shop could be costing you hundreds of dollars every year. Learn how to get the coverage you need for the lowest cost.
Posted: January 25, 2011, 6:09 pm
Improving sales brought a heady sense of optimism to the 2011 North American International Auto Show. Here are 5 ways to play the trend.
Posted: January 25, 2011, 4:40 pm
The market seems ready to party like it's 1999 as investors eagerly await shares of Facebook, Twitter, Groupon, Kayak and other popular names. But should you dive in?
Posted: January 25, 2011, 3:26 pm
We fretted about deflation, and now we are worried about what to do about its remedy, inflation. Maybe we should embrace it.
Posted: January 24, 2011, 2:56 pm
The best way to participate in the growth of emerging economies may be to hold blue-chip multinational companies -- no matter where they are based.
Posted: January 24, 2011, 2:50 pm
Dan DeFelippi was the sort of criminal you worry about -- a, smart, savvy, nearly invisible fraudster. Here's his advice on how to protect yourself from people like him.
Posted: January 24, 2011, 12:30 pm
If you're lucky enough to live in 1 of 7 states, you can request an extra copy of your credit report from each of the 3 major credit bureaus. Here's how.
Posted: January 24, 2011, 12:08 pm
You might get a satisfying lunch for $7, or you could get a share of a promising company that's flying below many investors' radar screens.
Posted: January 22, 2011, 7:19 pm
From tablet devices to rare earth metals, trends are hot on Wall Street once again. But in the end, cooler heads will prevail.
Posted: January 21, 2011, 2:59 pm
If you've chosen to stop using your cards, it might be a good idea to revisit that decision. Shunning plastic may be more costly than you think.
Posted: January 21, 2011, 12:10 pm
As emerging markets beef up efforts to curb inflation, stocks there are likely to suffer. Now is a great time to look closer to home.
Posted: January 20, 2011, 3:34 pm
Many seniors who took out reverse mortgages have not been making property tax and insurance payments -- and their homes could be foreclosed on as a result.
Posted: January 20, 2011, 12:20 pm
Dividends provide investors with one of the surest ways to earn superior returns. These 10 dividend-payers are favorites of some of the nation's best-known stock pickers.
Posted: January 20, 2011, 11:15 am
We asked our readers to confess their worst tax sins. Here's what they told us -- and how you can avoid making the same blunders.
Posted: January 19, 2011, 4:24 pm
When returns are low, investors watch every penny. So ETF and mutual-fund providers are slashing fees to build market share and keep from losing customers.
Posted: January 19, 2011, 2:41 pm
The severity of the recent downturn likely has you swearing off stocks, but the lesson of the Great Recession isn't to walk away. Far from it.
Posted: January 19, 2011, 1:54 pm
Not so long ago, a little inflation seemed a lot better than the alternative. But now we're seeing scary signs that it might be getting out of hand.
Posted: January 19, 2011, 1:16 pm
Here's a look at some possibilities that could shape the market this year, from the first true market highs in years to a Facebook buyout.
Posted: January 18, 2011, 3:55 pm
If you were laid off but had the good fortune to find another job, chances are you're earning less now. Painful as that is for you, it could be good for the economy.
Posted: January 18, 2011, 12:43 pm
Things have been tough all over, but the states largely bypassed by the boom will be the ones that recover first. Plus: 5 states where the pain is likely to linger longest.
Posted: January 18, 2011, 12:20 pm
You might make money buying the stocks analysts love best, but the upside may be limited by their very popularity. Better to buy the stocks analysts loathe.
Posted: January 17, 2011, 8:12 pm
If you're car shopping, don't forget the price of premiums. When it comes to insurance rates, exciting is expensive, while staid is cheap.
Posted: January 17, 2011, 4:44 pm
The rapper tweeted, investors jumped, and a penny stock soared. Turns out they may have had good reason to follow him. His investments have been as dope as his rhymes.
Posted: January 17, 2011, 2:03 pm
What will the world's most famous investor be buying this year? Analysts at Credit Suisse assemble a portfolio that would satisfy the Oracle's investment philosophies.
Posted: January 17, 2011, 12:07 pm
Yes, the price of gold keeps rising. But for gold to be a speculative bubble, lots of people would have to buy into it. So far, participation remains thin.
Posted: January 14, 2011, 1:18 pm
If you think your bank doesn't care about you, you might be surprised to know just how far it will go to find out -- or try to guess -- more about you.
Posted: January 14, 2011, 12:57 pm
My long-term portfolio has posted hefty returns, partly because I don't buy and forget. Here are 10 stocks for the next decade, and 5 to drop.
Posted: January 14, 2011, 11:47 am
The prices of some basics, including wheat and rice, have risen by more than a quarter and are near historic highs. As your budget tightens, these stocks benefit.
Posted: January 13, 2011, 1:17 pm
Whether you're near retirement or just starting your career, these funds -- with suggested allocations for your age and risk tolerance -- belong in your portfolio.
Posted: January 13, 2011, 11:32 am
The 401k was supposed to be a retirement supplement. But now that it's the main source of old-age security, the rules need rethinking.
Posted: January 12, 2011, 2:26 pm
Interest rates are starting to rise as the era of cheap debt comes to an end. If you can afford to borrow and put that money to good use -- say, on a home or car -- new debt may actually save you money.
Posted: January 12, 2011, 12:53 pm
You probably know that deposits are insured, but do you know what the limits are? And what happens if you owe the bank money?
Posted: January 12, 2011, 12:17 pm
Clothing manufacturers are scrambling for alternatives to pricey cotton, resulting in a spike in demand for rayon's major ingredient.
Posted: January 11, 2011, 3:58 pm
You can try to outguess the market for great results in 2011, or you can simply buy companies you think will do great things. Here are several worth a look, including GE, AMD and 3M.
Posted: January 11, 2011, 1:45 pm
Despite shrinking budgets, these schools continue to deliver a stellar education at an affordable price.
Posted: January 11, 2011, 12:36 pm
Each of these wealthy people got started on the road to riches by performing entry-level tasks like bagging groceries, delivering newspapers or parking cars.
Posted: January 10, 2011, 4:43 pm
Each of these wealthy people got started on the road to riches by performing entry-level tasks like bagging groceries, delivering newspapers or parking cars.
Posted: January 10, 2011, 4:43 pm
House prices -- but also interest rates -- declined in 2010, and the housing market continues to struggle. A mortgage expert looks at what's likely to happen next.
Posted: January 10, 2011, 1:53 pm
The Big 2 saw sales rise in 2010, and they expect to put more cars on the road this year. The stocks to buy to play this trend, though, are the big automakers' suppliers.
Posted: January 10, 2011, 12:29 pm
The year opens on a strong note, with many convinced the worst is behind us. But will rising interest rates and prices cool off this optimism as 2011 rolls on?
Posted: January 7, 2011, 3:14 pm
Protect yourself by knowing where you're vulnerable and where crooks look for the personal information they need to take over your identity.
Posted: January 7, 2011, 2:35 pm
Out-of-pocket expenses for retirees will go down, thanks to health care reform, but a 65-year-old couple will still need a big chunk of savings to ensure the bills are paid.
Posted: January 7, 2011, 12:22 pm
There's a globe's worth of opportunity to make money this year, and knowing where to invest is key. One of your best options is surprisingly close to home.
Posted: January 6, 2011, 3:22 pm
The move to debit cards and direct deposit means consumers need to learn the rules to avoid unexpected fees. Here are 9 things to know if you receive payments this way.
Posted: January 6, 2011, 12:56 pm
The investing strategy won in 2010 and could outperform again, thanks to the lure of dividend stocks. Here's how to play in 2011.
Posted: January 6, 2011, 12:11 pm
The stock market and economy haven't been kind: Many people who see retirement getting closer are finding that their savings goals are still far away. Now what?
Posted: January 6, 2011, 11:54 am
The bear market led throngs of investors to flee stocks for the relative 'safety' of bonds. But with the economy changing, those investments now threaten our retirement savings.
Posted: January 5, 2011, 3:42 pm
Most major banks now have customer-support accounts on the site, and they'll respond to complaints quickly to keep social media from damaging their reputations.
Posted: January 5, 2011, 1:44 pm
Markets showed impressive gains in 2010, and a repeat could be in store. Likely ways to make money include bets on the Dogs of the Dow and on the third year of the Obama administration.
Posted: January 4, 2011, 6:06 pm
Sure, they helped cause the problems that nearly toppled the economy and cost investors a lot of money. But banks will be one of the best places to invest in 2011.
Posted: January 4, 2011, 3:38 pm
$1,200 legally yanked from savings accounts drove one man from his bank. Lower interest rates on credit cards and fewer fees attracted others to credit unions.
Posted: January 4, 2011, 12:00 am
Your friendly home-insurance company would rather you didn't know that you're paying too much. Or that it could drop you in a heartbeat if you file too many claims.
Posted: January 2, 2011, 12:00 am
The food may be great, but, after big moves in 2010, the stocks of many big names look expensive. Time to take these eateries off the table?
Posted: December 31, 2010, 6:33 pm
Simulations of real-world weather conditions show how reinforced construction can protect homes against damage from wind, rain, fire, hail and debris.
Posted: December 31, 2010, 6:12 pm
Before you adopt that cute mutt or exotic fish, be sure you know what the animal's needs are -- and that you have a plan to deal with unexpected expenses.
Posted: December 31, 2010, 3:02 pm
Gone are the days of buy-and-hold investing. Stock picking was the strategy for the past decade, and these 10 companies were the best performers.
Posted: December 31, 2010, 2:30 pm
If you've made plans to eat right and exercise, be sure to add a couple of to-do's that will be sure to improve the health of your finances.
Posted: December 30, 2010, 2:49 pm
The global economy was fueled for years by low-cost borrowing, and money is still cheap now. But that's changing. Here's why it's happening -- and how to respond.
Posted: December 29, 2010, 5:35 pm
Some carriers are offering discounted rates to drivers who log less than 15,000 miles each year. Some drivers could potentially save a bundle.
Posted: December 29, 2010, 2:55 pm
Insurance companies consider more than accidents and speeding tickets. Find out what makes rates go up -- and how to keep yours low.
Posted: December 29, 2010, 2:00 pm
While the hot investing money pours into China, Japanese stocks look underpriced despite signs that country's economy is finally picking up. Here are 4 reasons to bet on Japan.
Posted: December 28, 2010, 4:26 pm
Boomers are redefining what it means to be 65. Retirement is a reality for some, a distant dream for many and a big 'not yet!' for others.
Posted: December 28, 2010, 3:07 pm
Lots of people worry about the wrong things (online shopping, for example) while neglecting some simple ways to protect themselves.
Posted: December 27, 2010, 5:29 pm
Estate planning will ensure that your loved ones know your wishes -- and that they're cared for in the unlikely event of your death.
Posted: December 27, 2010, 4:30 pm
Credit counseling, debt settlement and debt consolidation are not all the same -- and it's important to know what you're getting when you sign up.
Posted: December 22, 2010, 8:14 pm
Stimulus pumped into the US economy late in 2010 should be bullish for stocks in 2011. And asset classes that glittered this year could recede in the months ahead.
Posted: December 22, 2010, 6:24 pm
If you don't know what must be done with your retirement funds before 2011, you may miss opportunities -- and could even face penalties.
Posted: December 22, 2010, 6:16 pm
These solid, consistent funds are a good investment for your future. Consider adding one or more to your portfolio in 2011
Posted: December 22, 2010, 5:00 pm
Evidence is mounting that an epic bull market has already begun. But there are still ways to position your portfolio to take advantage in 2011.
Posted: December 22, 2010, 1:00 am
The 'Mad Money' host and TheStreet founder is bullish on US blue chips, many of which he says are in great position to reward investors with little risk.
Posted: December 21, 2010, 6:52 pm
Sometimes cars that have been in floods or accidents end up back on a dealer's lot -- with the damage history erased. But there are ways to protect yourself.
Posted: December 21, 2010, 5:59 pm
If you're planning a few last purchases (or worse, just getting started), avoid the biggest holiday budget busters. Readers share their warnings and regrets.
Posted: December 21, 2010, 5:07 pm
Some leading investment newsletter authors share stellar records but don't agree on where the market is headed. Bulls and bears offer their best bets for the new year.
Posted: December 21, 2010, 5:00 pm
Companies that cater to rich tastes slashed costs during the recession and are now seeing their bottom lines swell as sales surge. Are the stocks bargains now?
Posted: December 20, 2010, 3:33 pm
With so much uncertainty and potential for crisis, the year ahead could be rough. I'm focusing on 3 clear trends -- and 10 stocks that will succeed because of them.
Posted: December 20, 2010, 3:30 pm
You don't have to go with factory-installed options for navigation, entertainment and safety; off-the-shelf gadgets are usually cheaper -- and may offer better features.
Posted: December 20, 2010, 2:30 pm
By twisting the facts of an accident, they can blame the victim and avoid having to pay up. And even if the trick finally fails, it can still be profitable.
Posted: December 18, 2010, 9:31 pm
Experts tell where people are most likely to go wrong when they try to properly protect their families. (The biggest mistake would be not buying it at all.)
Posted: December 18, 2010, 4:00 pm
The goodies a lot of people are longing for this holiday season, like the iPad and the Kinect, could be clues that help you figure out which companies will have a happy New Year.
Posted: December 17, 2010, 5:00 pm
Rising investment interest in gold reflects investor doubts, while falling interest in bonds is a reminder of how foolish the market can be.
Posted: December 17, 2010, 5:00 pm
Expedia, the nation's biggest online travel agency, appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter's best investment ideas.
Posted: December 17, 2010, 3:51 pm
Worried that a late utility bill will wallop your credit scores? Stop fretting. These common lapses could lead to financial troubles, but they won't ding your scores.
Posted: December 17, 2010, 3:30 pm
Don't pay sticker price for your vehicle coverage. Discounts are available for a variety of reasons, and you don't need a stellar driving record for most of them.
Posted: December 16, 2010, 5:35 pm
The old market wisdom says investors shouldn't fight the Fed. But these days, what China does matters a whole lot more than what Bernanke's crew says.
Posted: December 16, 2010, 5:00 pm
If you're changing your oil every 3,000 miles and you can't remember the last time you looked at your owner's manual, you may be spending more than you need to.
Posted: December 16, 2010, 3:45 pm
Investors who stayed away from the market as stocks rebounded from their '09 lows might prefer to ease back in with some blue-chip names.
Posted: December 15, 2010, 7:35 pm
Modern technology gives scammers fertile new ground to ply their age-old trade. Here's a look at the telltale signs of common card cons -- and how to protect yourself from them.
Posted: December 15, 2010, 3:44 pm
The mortgage meltdown hasn't killed Americans' belief in homeownership. And there are signs that now may be prime opportunity for homebuyers and investors.
Posted: December 15, 2010, 2:22 pm
It's not just lenders who check your credit scores. Bad scores can also make it costlier to get insurance, an apartment or a cell phone -- and harder to get a job.
Posted: December 15, 2010, 2:20 pm
US investors desperate for growth are piling into Chinese IPOs. But that might not be the best place to put money. But if not there, where?
Posted: December 14, 2010, 6:17 pm
With the La Niña weather pattern expected to make for an extra-chilly winter, here are some plays in energy and other areas to warm an investor's heart.
Posted: December 14, 2010, 3:30 pm
People who have done it tell what it takes -- and how to overcome the perceived obstacles that might be holding you back.
Posted: December 13, 2010, 5:50 pm
People who have done it tell what it takes -- and how to overcome the perceived obstacles that might be holding you back.
Posted: December 13, 2010, 5:50 pm
Prices are falling and yields rising as the bond world sends a message to Washington. The fallout will affect retirement savings, mortgage rates, stocks, gold and more.
Posted: December 13, 2010, 5:30 pm
If there's money left in your flexible spending account at the end of the year, you need to figure out how to use it -- otherwise you risk losing it.
Posted: December 13, 2010, 4:23 pm
Looking for your own slice of heaven? Central and South America offer the unbeatable combination of warm weather and inexpensive real estate. And for Old World charm, you'll always have Paris.
Posted: December 13, 2010, 4:15 pm
Signs of a top in bond prices could set the tone for investors in 2011. The government may start having trouble funding its debt, taking away the Fed's printing press.
Posted: December 10, 2010, 8:21 pm
If you receive (or, in many cases, give) anything on this list -- whether on impulse or after years of contemplation -- be prepared for an amazing difference.
Posted: December 10, 2010, 6:19 pm
Adding another trillion to the national debt tells the world the US doesn't intend to pay its bills. We're following the course of the great Spanish Empire -- which went bankrupt.
Posted: December 9, 2010, 10:10 pm
It takes more than a million -- that's for sure. Popular culture gives some hints at how many dollars it takes to be really wealthy in this millennium.
Posted: December 9, 2010, 5:45 pm
You'll have a much easier time getting ahead if you avoid these 12 financial pitfalls. Yet nearly everyone makes one or more of them.
Posted: December 9, 2010, 3:58 pm
One economist is predicting as many as 3.9 million new jobs in the year ahead, pushing the unemployment rate down to 7.3%. It's optimistic, but there are signs the change has already begun.
Posted: December 8, 2010, 11:00 pm
Over 10 years, the top-paid chief execs collected a total of $7.64 billion. But the mixed results for their companies suggest some earned it and some did not.
Posted: December 8, 2010, 7:44 pm
Huge run-ups in these stocks' prices have left most of us wishing for profits that might have been. A consolation: Analysts expect some to keep rising.
Posted: December 8, 2010, 5:00 pm
Shoppers are in luck: Retail competition is pushing down prices on many popular items. Here's a look at what's hot, from the latest gadgets to gifts for the socially conscious giver.
Posted: December 7, 2010, 6:53 pm
The S&P 500's biggest losers as of Nov. 30 managed to tumble in double digits even as most of the market went up. But are some ripe for a rebound?
Posted: December 7, 2010, 5:00 pm
Prizes abound, and it's never been easier to enter online. Here's how and where to focus your efforts (and avoid scams) if you're looking to win a sweepstakes.
Posted: December 7, 2010, 3:00 pm
Overall, market performance has been about average in 2010, but it was a tale of ups and downs, shocks and uproar. You may not like it, but you'd better get used to it.
Posted: December 6, 2010, 3:30 pm
The housing meltdown may have driven some of the less-qualified lenders out of business. Still, you don't want to go to just anybody. Here's how to pick a winner.
Posted: December 6, 2010, 3:00 pm
Just because they're big companies doesn't mean they always know what they're doing. Mistakes and bad behavior can lead to a black eye, as with these major corporations.
Posted: December 6, 2010, 2:33 pm
It's not about working in your PJs. The winners of StartUpNation's fourth Home-Based 100 competition provide their customers with cuddly monsters, sex advice, garden tools and more.
Posted: December 3, 2010, 10:59 pm
If your scores are below 760, you may not be getting the best rates for loans or insurance -- so burnishing your scores can save you money.
Posted: December 3, 2010, 4:30 pm
Just because you're eligible to collect benefits doesn't mean you should -- yet. Learn why waiting can pay off, and other ways to get more of those retirement dollars.
Posted: December 3, 2010, 3:00 pm
It's hard to tell which cars are going to have the most endurance when they roll off the line, but these models have proved their mettle.
Posted: December 2, 2010, 10:45 pm
Investors who missed out so far have been begging for a chance to get into red-hot emerging markets. That chance is here. So, what's with the hesitation and fear?
Posted: December 2, 2010, 5:30 pm
Passively managed portfolios that aim to match, not beat, the performance of the broader market are being tweaked to make investing cheaper and easier.
Posted: December 2, 2010, 2:15 pm
The holiday shopping season usually includes some of the best days of the year to buy a car.
Posted: December 1, 2010, 6:00 pm
Actual dealer cost is elusive, and the 'invoice price' is just one clue. But you can get an idea of dealer cost, and that will help in negotiating the price you pay.
Posted: December 1, 2010, 6:00 pm
New problems in Ireland and Greece have renewed worries about the Old World and its currency. Here's a look at what's at stake -- and how investors can play the euro's woes.
Posted: December 1, 2010, 4:30 pm
Shopping for a new car can be a daunting proposition -- but it need not be if you know what to expect (and are willing to walk away).
Posted: December 1, 2010, 4:30 pm
The US has the world's most promising economy, if only because the rest of the world looks so risky. Buy these stocks while it lasts.
Posted: November 30, 2010, 5:30 pm
Many fund investors have little to show for the past decade. Over a 15-year period, however, these funds have walloped the broader market.
Posted: November 30, 2010, 4:23 pm
Some revolutionary brands manage to work their way into our hearts, habits and vocabularies -- a real boon for the businesses behind them. Here are 10 household names we know and love.
Posted: November 30, 2010, 2:00 pm
It's a variation on loans between friends or family members, but websites offer investors with money to lend a way to check out prospective borrowers' history.
Posted: November 29, 2010, 9:54 pm
If your son or daughter is heading out on the road for the first time, be sure you're not breaking the bank on insurance rates. Here are ways to keep costs in check.
Posted: November 29, 2010, 4:00 pm
Parents shouldn't be surprised if more than a few well-intentioned presents turn out to be flops. But there are plenty of gifts for kids that are a bad idea from the get-go.
Posted: November 24, 2010, 4:00 pm
The market hasn't been easy, so it's good to remember how well it can pay off. Here's a look at companies with names you probably know -- and stocks a lot of us wish we'd owned.
Posted: November 23, 2010, 6:00 pm
The Oracle of Omaha has become wealthy investing in undervalued companies that contribute valuable goods and services. Gold just sits there.
Posted: November 23, 2010, 5:21 pm
This year’s best coverage deal may not be next year’s, and the choices are complex. Here's how to get started on figuring out what's best for you.
Posted: November 23, 2010, 9:00 am
It's not easy, but it's not impossible, either. These 5 steps can help make the transition easier -- whether or not the choice was yours.
Posted: November 23, 2010, 9:00 am
Corporations often fight tooth and nail to protect themselves from competitors they see as coming too close to cashing in on their names. But such skirmishes can have surprising results.
Posted: November 22, 2010, 6:00 pm
Not only is it a horrific crime, it's insurance fraud. And not being convicted (or even charged) in a death does not necessarily mean a beneficiary can collect.
Posted: November 22, 2010, 5:30 pm
Not only is it a horrific crime, it's insurance fraud. And not being convicted (or even charged) in a death does not necessarily mean a beneficiary can collect.
Posted: November 22, 2010, 5:30 pm
Amid the market's ups and downs, keep your eye on the long-term trend moving stocks upward. And should that trend break, prepare to run for cover.
Posted: November 22, 2010, 4:15 pm
Instead of burying a loved one with lots of smaller, not-so-special gifts, why not pool your resources with other folks to buy a truly memorable present? Start with these 9 ideas.
Posted: November 22, 2010, 2:20 pm
President Obama wants to let the Bush tax cuts expire for households earning $250,000 or more a year. Is that the income level where 'rich' really begins?
Posted: November 19, 2010, 6:01 pm
Developments in Europe and China are leading me to rethink my strategy for next year. It's going to be a rougher course than I've been expecting.
Posted: November 18, 2010, 7:37 pm
Advertisers hire admired, trustworthy and persuasive personalities to help them sell their wares. Here are some of the most effective.
Posted: November 18, 2010, 6:00 pm
Where you live can make a lot of difference in how far your retirement dollars stretch, and the story goes way beyond which states have no income tax.
Posted: November 18, 2010, 5:45 pm
The three big holiday retailers for kids' stuff are battling it out with lower prices and bigger selections. And more choices could help -- no toy has emerged as this year's 'must-have' gift.
Posted: November 18, 2010, 1:00 pm
As bad as the last few years have been, the markets have recovered from worse. Here's a look at some of the biggest investing mistakes of all time.
Posted: November 17, 2010, 5:00 pm
The friendly customer service representatives can help you, sure. Just be aware that 'convenience' or 'protection' is in the interest of the financial institution.
Posted: November 17, 2010, 3:00 pm
The cost of a wide range of commodities has been soaring and will likely keep rising. You can't fight it, but with some smart investing moves, you can profit from it.
Posted: November 16, 2010, 6:11 pm
At first, bank-owned houses seemed like some of the best bargains in town, but then the robo-signing controversy made buying seem like a risky proposition.
Posted: November 16, 2010, 6:04 pm
There really is such a thing, and about a million Americans have one. If you want to join that elite club, get started now (the age of your credit counts).
Posted: November 15, 2010, 7:12 pm
There's no denying that credit cards can be useful financial tools, but they come with some dangers. While debt is the most obvious risk, it's far from the only one.
Posted: November 15, 2010, 6:00 pm
Fun money, secret savings or war chest -- it all adds up to the same thing: Hiding cash from a spouse. Learn what to look for and why the schemes sometimes backfire.
Posted: November 15, 2010, 12:00 am
Evidence is mounting that the market is on the edge of a major move. If you're ready to invest, let market trends guide you to the most promising sectors.
Posted: November 12, 2010, 7:00 pm
Though the outcomes often do little or nothing for the consumers involved, class action lawsuits still provide a valuable function -- one that's now under threat.
Posted: November 12, 2010, 4:48 pm
Even some well-intentioned practices like clipping coupons can result in your spending more. But if you know the dangers, you can find ways around them.
Posted: November 10, 2010, 9:13 pm
Young adults with steady incomes should be setting some aside for retirement -- but that can be a whole lot harder than it sounds. Here's how to avoid the common missteps.
Posted: November 10, 2010, 7:00 pm
One model gets more than 4 times the average number of citations; another gets less than one-fourth. And the ages and genders of the drivers might surprise you.
Posted: November 9, 2010, 7:00 pm
People are living longer and saving less, leaving many in a financial bind in their later years. Here are some ways you can stretch your retirement dollars.
Posted: November 9, 2010, 6:30 pm
We deny it, but even college-educated Americans -- at least those under 55 -- can't duplicate their parents' prosperity. Here's how we hide this reality from ourselves.
Posted: November 9, 2010, 4:19 pm
With the market up, bargains are harder to find, but a lot of great companies on the brink of turnarounds can still be had cheap.
Posted: November 9, 2010, 12:30 pm
Never heard of Squinkies or Zoobles? You'd better start looking for them now. They are among the hottest toys this holiday season.
Posted: November 9, 2010, 9:00 am
The Fed contributed mightily to 2 financial bubbles over the past decade. Now it seems bent on a course that will create one in the world's emerging economies.
Posted: November 8, 2010, 8:00 pm
Married couples who retire might benefit from professional assistance in choosing the strategy that is likely to yield the most money.
Posted: November 8, 2010, 6:40 pm
Despite what you may have heard, when it comes to taxes and benefits, it generally pays to be married. But that's not true for all couples.
Posted: November 8, 2010, 12:00 am
Investors and consumers will pay for the Federal Reserve's misguided move to create hundreds of billions out of thin air. Expect plenty of inflation.
Posted: November 5, 2010, 5:00 pm
The GOP's big gains are good news for companies that benefit when regulations don't get written or funded. Here's a rough guide to the likely winners.
Posted: November 4, 2010, 5:10 pm
The Fed chief is trying to get a moribund US economy to stir. But evidence suggests the patient is beginning to recover, and more patience -- not more stimulus -- is needed now.
Posted: November 3, 2010, 6:58 pm
Using the same low-cost strategy that helped it succeed in mutual funds, Vanguard is expanding its range of ETF offerings.
Posted: November 3, 2010, 4:48 pm
This calculator reduces all your retirement planning to a single figure. It's a handy and useful guide, but can you handle the answer?
Posted: November 3, 2010, 12:00 am
When you see a loved one's financial disaster coming and he or she doesn't, the stage is set for drama. Here's when you should intervene -- and when you shouldn't.
Posted: November 3, 2010, 12:00 am
The recent market rally may have lulled investors into a false sense of security. But a study of long-term returns indicates Americans should start saving a lot more money.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 7:01 pm
Another sign the business world is rebounding: The advertising industry is making a profitable comeback. Don Draper, TV's favorite ad man, would no doubt drink to that.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 1:48 pm
Forgot to pay your credit card bill? Neglected to file a tax return? Having trouble paying your student loans? You can easily remedy these and other money blunders.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 12:00 am
You can prepay your child's college costs without affecting his chances for need-based financial aid.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 12:00 am
Thought you were covered by your landlord's insurance? Think again. You'll need renters insurance to protect your belongings from perils including theft, vandalism, fire and falling objects.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 12:00 am
Americans young and old are flunking their finances, but money mastery isn't really that hard. Here are 9 simple keys you need to know.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 12:00 am
If your budget is tight again this year, cutting back on tipping is OK, but make sure you still express your appreciation in some way to the folks who make your life easier.
Posted: November 2, 2010, 12:00 am
Retail hasn't exactly shone brightly over the past few years. Though expectations are low, these companies are poised to outperform during the fourth quarter.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 8:30 pm
Even corporate giants were forced to think outside the box to meet the challenges of the Great Recession.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 6:00 pm
The higher incomes that college education brings may not make up for the savings it consumes or the debt it adds early in the life of a typical student.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
The recession and rising tuition are crimping family finances, but new tax breaks, jobs, bigger loans and federal grants can help defray or delay higher-education costs.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
PORTFOLIO 110: How to avoid stock overlap in your portfolio.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
You're poorer than you'll ever be again, but you can lay the groundwork now for a prosperous future. Here's what you need to know to get off to a good start.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Your answers to six crucial questions can help guide you to the coverage you need -- and help you steer clear of buying coverage that your condo association already has.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Some people are born worriers, and when the economy is shaky, their imaginations go into overdrive. Here are five tips for coping with impending doom, real or otherwise.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
What you don't know about filing a homeowners insurance claim after serious damage can definitely hurt you. Don't get caught by these common surprises.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
With vet bills soaring and fancy new treatments available, it's an option more owners are considering. Plus: 8 ways to cut the cost of keeping a healthy pet.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
You're a full-fledged adult now, and you know the basics. Now, go build on that foundation to secure your financial future.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
If you were too injured or ill to make your own decisions, who would do it? A stranger or a greedy relative picked by the state? Don't wait; make your choices known.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Worried you may need helping hands in your twilight years? Look to long-term-care insurance to make it affordable. And planning and flexibility can hold down premiums.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Years of complex budget calculations have led me to a simple conclusion: If you limit essential spending to 60% of total income, your savings will soar.
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
You're sweating, panicked. You're about to recycle an old gift, buy a weight-loss book for Aunt Josephine or grab the Victoria's Secret catalog. Stop! Break the cycle of Holiday Gift-Shopping Syndrome!
Posted: November 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Are you putting off important financial decisions? You could be missing your best chance at a comfortable retirement. Here's what you should be doing right now.
Posted: October 31, 2010, 12:00 am
Most of the folks I interviewed are in good health and have high-deductible policies. But that can be expensive and leave big gaps in coverage.
Posted: October 31, 2010, 12:00 am
The economic downturn has been a boon to one group in particular: Scam artists. They're having a field day taking advantage of the financially desperate.
Posted: October 29, 2010, 9:00 am
Some investors are so scared of rising prices that they've gobbled up inflation-protected Treasurys at a loss just for safety. That bodes well for high-yield stocks.
Posted: October 28, 2010, 7:08 pm
A Tennessee city's decision to let a home burn because of an unpaid fee illustrates one of the debates of this election season: How much should government do?
Posted: October 27, 2010, 6:00 pm
For all the heat the president has taken for the economy, he has gotten some things right. And regardless of Tuesday’s vote, history says we're in for an upswing.
Posted: October 27, 2010, 3:19 pm
While many businesses are content to boost profits by cutting back, a select few are confident enough to hire and grow. That makes them promising plays for investors.
Posted: October 26, 2010, 8:00 pm
Several experts say gold still has room to run. But if you're thinking of buying, be careful: After the smart money sells, latecomers can be left holding the bag.
Posted: October 26, 2010, 6:00 pm
The potential for going deeply into debt isn't all that makes plastic hazardous to your wealth. Other, more-subtle temptations can also cause trouble.
Posted: October 26, 2010, 9:00 am
Investors face a host of potential horrors, including looming debt, currency disasters and water wars. Here's how to face down the scary monsters and still make money.
Posted: October 25, 2010, 7:30 pm
Among this year's winners are volatile stocks that stumbled badly during the bear market. Are they capable of extending their gains?
Posted: October 22, 2010, 7:00 pm
Humans are hard-wired to run with the herd. But when it comes to investing, it pays to run the other way.
Posted: October 22, 2010, 7:00 pm
Say what you will about this uprising, but cutting the federal deficit and paying down the debt could boost growth over the long term. The short term is more worrisome.
Posted: October 20, 2010, 8:00 pm
Even in scary economic times, investors who stick with the basics -- indexing, diversifying, dollar-cost averaging and more -- are usually rewarded.
Posted: October 20, 2010, 6:00 pm
FUNDS 101: When you buy a mutual fund, you're actually buying an ownership stake in a corporation that in turn hires a money manager to invest its money.
Posted: October 20, 2010, 12:00 am
To juice up their returns in a go-nowhere market, some investors are embracing strategies that take them out of their comfort zones. Here are 4 ways you can, too.
Posted: October 19, 2010, 9:32 pm
They're supposed to help you make money, but some brokers are more concerned with their own financial interests. Here's how to protect yourself.
Posted: October 19, 2010, 4:45 pm
Banks' inattention to detail brought foreclosures to a halt across the nation. Was there a similar pattern in handing out mortgages that will come back to bite the industry?
Posted: October 18, 2010, 7:45 pm
If you find yourself out of work or in a new position, you have decisions to make about the money left in your old retirement plan. Here are 5 options to consider.
Posted: October 18, 2010, 12:00 am
Forget the recommended 4% annual drawdown of your nest egg. This strategy creates both guaranteed income and growth potential.
Posted: October 17, 2010, 12:00 am
You might be happy if store prices aren't rising, but at the same time, Social Security checks aren't getting any bigger, and your CD might pay only a penny on the dollar.
Posted: October 17, 2010, 12:00 am
Despite short-term interest rates close to 0% -- and long-term rates headed in that same direction -- there are still some decent options for income investors.
Posted: October 14, 2010, 9:07 pm
After a bleak decade for investors and a deep recession, your retirement goals may seem out of reach. But you may have an opportunity to make up ground fast.
Posted: October 13, 2010, 7:00 pm
Savers who stuck with their 401k's through the downturn are seeing their nest eggs grow again. But further adjustments can be made to keep retirements on track.
Posted: October 13, 2010, 6:00 pm
Companies sitting on piles of cash are being pressured to use it, so expect jumps in capital spending, dividends and stock buybacks. Here's how to get in on the action.
Posted: October 12, 2010, 6:00 pm
Among the billionaires on Forbes' list of the 400 richest Americans, just 8 now in the exclusive club are younger than 40.
Posted: October 12, 2010, 6:00 pm
Financial experts offer suggestions for how and what parents should teach kids about personal finance before they leave home (or get credit cards).
Posted: October 12, 2010, 9:00 am
Should you try to pay off your house before leaving the work force? Here's how to know if that'd be smart for you. Plus: Would you refi or just accelerate payments?
Posted: October 12, 2010, 9:00 am
Though slowed by the recession, these US cities have flourished by fostering innovations that put Americans to work and keep the nation ahead of the competition.
Posted: October 12, 2010, 12:00 am
PepsiCo, Nestlé and other giants are making long-term moves toward foods in which nutrition has been juiced up. Here are 3 ways to play the trend.
Posted: October 11, 2010, 7:15 pm
The stable of low-cost index funds now controls more assets than the home of the once-giant Magellan fund. Are investors giving up on skilled stock pickers for good?
Posted: October 8, 2010, 6:00 pm
The Fed seems set on a course that leads to inflation and a devalued currency, yet investors worry about the price of gold. Most don't own enough to be hurt by it -- or enough to protect themselves from a currency disaster.
Posted: October 8, 2010, 5:00 pm
You might not ever get back exactly the life you had before. Here are 5 steps for rebuilding -- with an eye on credit and retirement.
Posted: October 8, 2010, 9:00 am
Oil production is going gangbusters in the shale fields of North Dakota, Montana and Saskatchewan, Canada. Here's why -- and how investors can do a little wildcatting, too.
Posted: October 7, 2010, 7:00 pm
For contrarians, low-rated mutual funds are a good place to look for buying opportunities. Here are 5 out-of-favor funds worth considering.
Posted: October 6, 2010, 6:00 pm
Small-company stocks look ready take the lead in the market as merger activity picks up. Play the field with funds -- or consider these 3 promising picks.
Posted: October 6, 2010, 6:00 pm
Whether you're already in college or looking ahead, there are steps you can take now to lighten the load when you finish college.
Posted: October 6, 2010, 12:00 am
Fed up with banks or spurned by them, millions of customers are turning to prepaid plastic that works like an ATM card. Two young companies could emerge as giants in this space.
Posted: October 5, 2010, 6:00 pm
A diverse collection of safe, income-producing strategies can help you get the most out of your nest egg, and increase the likelihood of a comfortable retirement.
Posted: October 5, 2010, 4:50 pm
If you don't know about a potential tax break, you won't take it. Here are the deductions a lot of taxpayers often forget.
Posted: October 5, 2010, 12:00 am
We all think we know the parts of the tax code that affect us. But do we really? If you believe some of these myths, you could pay more tax than you should.
Posted: October 5, 2010, 12:00 am
Year after year, the IRS sees Americans committing the same sorts of mistakes on their returns. Many of these errors are easy to avoid; some are more complicated.
Posted: October 4, 2010, 12:00 am
The Fed is weighing how to push more money into the economy, and, given the central bank's record, that's bad news for the dollar. Gold, anyone?
Posted: October 1, 2010, 5:02 pm
The most malleable of metals has been a repository of value and a symbol of wealth for thousands of years. That doesn't mean investors understand it.
Posted: October 1, 2010, 5:00 pm
Americans are cutting their debts and putting away more money. But too often they're settling for zero returns or making investments that look increasingly risky.
Posted: September 30, 2010, 5:00 pm
Overcautious investors could miss out on what's shaping up as the greatest stock-buying chance of a generation.
Posted: September 29, 2010, 7:30 pm
Day traders and the long-term investor will have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to match your investing style to your broker.
Posted: September 29, 2010, 6:00 pm
With stocks struggling to gain traction, it could be time to seek opportunities elsewhere. These alternatives may outperform the market in the months ahead.
Posted: September 28, 2010, 7:00 pm
Federal and state grants serve as the biggest sources of direct student aid. Here’s where to find it and how to get it.
Posted: September 28, 2010, 12:00 am
Some sprucing up and savvy marketing can help you sell your car for a lot more cash than a dealer would ever offer you.
Posted: September 28, 2010, 12:00 am
Some advice on filling that economic-adviser job at the White House: Think big, get tough in the global economy, and invest in America's future. Oh, and call Jim Jubak.
Posted: September 27, 2010, 8:00 pm
Don't set yourself up for a holiday hangover. Here's how to give gifts to those you love without going into debt.
Posted: September 27, 2010, 12:00 am
Warning: Buying the 10 stocks listed atop StockScouter's rating system could result in serious money. Here's how the strategy works.
Posted: September 27, 2010, 12:00 am
Through the market's weakness over summer and its recent strength, it's been wise for investors to maintain perspective and not chase the tape too closely.
Posted: September 24, 2010, 8:42 pm
September's big market move faces a few hurdles with earnings season closing in. Here's why it's likely to stall, how to tell if it is and how to prepare.
Posted: September 23, 2010, 9:52 pm
U.S. consumers are back in the stores, with a new outlook: We'll still take the generics on sale, but please throw in those Jimmy Choos.
Posted: September 22, 2010, 7:00 pm
A majority of billionaires in the Forbes 400 have regained at least some of the wealth lost in the recession and stock market meltdown. But as a group, they're still down from 2008.
Posted: September 22, 2010, 6:00 pm
The metallic, by-invitation-only American Express card signifies success -- and money. Even unpretentious cardholders concede that membership has its privileges.
Posted: September 22, 2010, 9:00 am
Even small revisions to your retirement account today could make a big difference in your future nest egg. Also: What to do if your plan isn't up to snuff.
Posted: September 22, 2010, 9:00 am
Corporate leaders are slamming the president over taxes and the uncertain effects of his policies, and the executives' siege mentality is holding back the economy.
Posted: September 21, 2010, 7:17 pm
In some cases, the answer might be yes. Or you might simply not be offered a job and never know why. If you find that troubling, here's what you can do.
Posted: September 21, 2010, 12:00 am
Pay just the minimum on your credit cards? For most people, this shocker from influential media personality Orman is a lousy idea.
Posted: September 20, 2010, 9:35 pm
Just as the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930 helped put us on a course toward the Great Depression, Japan's recent currency move could begin a downward spiral.
Posted: September 20, 2010, 9:00 pm
As credit card issuers raise interest rates in return for giving out rewards, that cash you're getting back may not be getting you ahead.
Posted: September 20, 2010, 8:00 pm
Credit cards could be costing you money even if you don't have one. And here's why many retailers may wish shoppers would leave their cards at home.
Posted: September 19, 2010, 11:06 pm
Tales of other people's credit woes can be a learning tool for your children. Whether or not you trust them with plastic, it's important to teach the pros and cons of credit.
Posted: September 19, 2010, 10:02 pm
Investors seeking predictable returns are pouring money into funds employing a variety of strategies that shun the familiar approach of buying and holding stocks.
Posted: September 17, 2010, 7:00 pm
As even the Cuban government lays off workers, we can't seem to face the looming problems posed by our own bloated public payrolls.
Posted: September 17, 2010, 6:00 pm
Companies are handing out dividends left and right, but the yields are hardly worth cheering about. What does an investor have to do to make money?
Posted: September 16, 2010, 6:45 pm
A recent report suggests steps to help sustain the program for generations. But the fixes require political courage.
Posted: September 16, 2010, 12:00 am
Ready for a trip to an inflatable space station? A weak economy hasn't stopped entrepreneurs from working on new ideas in space travel, robotics, energy and more.
Posted: September 15, 2010, 6:00 pm
There's growing evidence that investors and company execs are far more negative than the data justify. That's an opportunity for those who see past the pessimism bubble.
Posted: September 15, 2010, 6:00 pm
Seemingly legitimate mobile-banking applications could put your account information -- or any other data stored on your phone -- at risk.
Posted: September 15, 2010, 12:00 am
It's not for everyone, and the industry is largely unregulated, so you'll need to exercise caution if you hire a company. Despite that, it may be worth considering.
Posted: September 15, 2010, 12:00 am
As lenders continue to tighten credit requirements, getting a good interest rate -- or a loan at all -- requires that you understand how the scoring system works.
Posted: September 14, 2010, 11:30 pm
Economists are divided over whether the economy could fall into a cycle of slack demand and falling prices. Investors have mutual fund options to guard against the threat.
Posted: September 14, 2010, 9:45 pm
If you're not doing all you can to keep your credit scores high, you're borrowing trouble -- and you could pay a very heavy price.
Posted: September 14, 2010, 9:02 pm
If you want to avoid problems with lenders, landlords, insurers and others, it pays to know the difference between credit fact and credit fiction.
Posted: September 14, 2010, 9:00 am
If you lose your health or your job, your life insurance may ride to the rescue. Here are 6 benefits you might not know you have (or might want to add to your policy).
Posted: September 14, 2010, 12:00 am
If you lose your health or your job, your life insurance may ride to the rescue. Here are 6 benefits you might not know you have (or might want to add to your policy).
Posted: September 14, 2010, 12:00 am
This crime is not as rare as you might think. And the betrayal (and damage) goes beyond the financial. Here's how it can happen -- and how to tell if it already has.
Posted: September 14, 2010, 12:00 am
Yes, the numbers look ugly, but a lot of them are old. There's more and more evidence that things are getting better at ground level.
Posted: September 13, 2010, 7:30 pm
A stolen brain, dogs stuck inside furniture, lost Elvis scarves . . . insurance adjusters have heard just about everything. But that doesn't mean the claims weren't paid.
Posted: September 13, 2010, 3:26 am
Insurance applicants often fudge on issues ranging from DUIs to drug use. But it's hard to hide baldfaced lies -- even though some folks go so far as shaving their heads.
Posted: September 13, 2010, 12:00 am
Assets are flowing into risky bear market funds, which are designed to profit when stocks fall. Should you put your money into these funds?
Posted: September 10, 2010, 7:00 pm
The signs are all there that the Federal Reserve is ready to step in with more policies and more money -- but without much more wisdom.
Posted: September 10, 2010, 6:00 pm
Insurance can be complicated and confusing. This guide answers 15 crucial questions about the types of coverage you need.
Posted: September 9, 2010, 9:00 am
You can now complain directly to a company that put a ding on your reports and force it to investigate. Here's how to do it.
Posted: September 9, 2010, 12:00 am
Did you get conned into joining a check-cashing scam? Even if authorities decide you're an innocent victim, you could find yourself owing a bank thousands of dollars.
Posted: September 9, 2010, 12:00 am
Companies, consumers, investors and banks are tucking away their cash, making it harder for the US economy to pull out of the doldrums. Rising prices could fix all of that.
Posted: September 8, 2010, 7:00 pm
One of the big myths of homeownership is that upgrades are investments. In reality, renovating is consumption spending. But if you want to remodel anyway, do it right.
Posted: September 8, 2010, 6:13 pm
Concerned about the deteriorating health of their workers and rising insurance costs, employers are introducing cash rewards for healthful living.
Posted: September 8, 2010, 9:00 am
Is your insurance adequate? How do you know? Even in today's hard times, you may need more, not less.
Posted: September 8, 2010, 12:00 am
More than ever, credit card companies are ready to negotiate with borrowers who are in over their heads. But know your options before you commit.
Posted: September 8, 2010, 12:00 am
Evil geniuses aren't to blame for most breaches of personal data. Usually, the information is all but handed out, thanks to carelessness or stupid decisions.
Posted: September 8, 2010, 12:00 am
A study reveals an unsettling trend from the Great Recession: Not only did many CEOs get raises while laying off workers, those who cut more got bigger pay packages.
Posted: September 7, 2010, 6:00 pm
After stripping banks of their role as middlemen in the federal student loan process, the government is now the primary lender to students.
Posted: September 7, 2010, 12:00 am
Your child's age, along with whether you're rich, poor or in between, will help determine how you should put aside money for school (and how much).
Posted: September 7, 2010, 12:00 am
Which group causes more accidents, drives drunk more often and is responsible for more traffic deaths? Take a look at government and auto insurance statistics.
Posted: September 7, 2010, 12:00 am
The Wealth Watchers method makes it simple to track your budget each day and catch overspending quickly. It's like a diet program -- only for your wallet.
Posted: September 7, 2010, 12:00 am
How much should you spend on housing? Groceries? The frustrating answer is 'it depends.' Now there's a way to figure it out, and it works regardless of your income.
Posted: September 7, 2010, 12:00 am
Start thinking now about how to take your pension, set up Social Security and, yes, how you'll spend your time. You'll have much more fun later on.
Posted: September 6, 2010, 12:00 am
These words and phrases may seem harmless, even well-meaning, but insurance companies see them as red flags, and they could hurt your chances of collecting on a claim.
Posted: September 6, 2010, 12:00 am
Don't rely on your insurance company to size up what you need. Here are the steps you should take to make sure that a disaster doesn't ruin you.
Posted: September 5, 2010, 10:31 pm
How can you navigate the threat of the 'flations'? One option is to follow the yellow brick road and buy gold.
Posted: September 3, 2010, 6:00 pm
Japan's currency keeps rising, making it a haven from US economic woes and creating bargains for investors. Here are 3 stocks to consider buying in the fall.
Posted: September 2, 2010, 7:00 pm
Sometimes the financial or safety risk outweighs the savings. Do you really want to sleep on someone else's mattress -- or take a chance with your child?
Posted: September 2, 2010, 12:00 am
About a third of us think we will. And more than a few of us believe a ticket out of our workaday financial worries will have lottery numbers printed on it.
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Payment history and total debt are important parts of the mystery mix -- but not the only factors.
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
It's crucial to save for a rainy day if you're a homeowner. (How else would you get your leaky roof or dead furnace fixed?) Plus: Home maintenance tasks.
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
If you're 'underwater' on your mortgage, walking away might make sense, but when is it OK to set aside your responsibilities to your lender, your neighbors and yourself?
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Just having a pulse isn't enough to get approved for a mortgage anymore. But knowing the rules ahead of time can help you steer clear of any potholes.
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
If you're not hung up on that new-car smell, you should be able to find a reasonably priced auto that, given proper maintenance, will be on the road for years to come.
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
If a tree branch damages your car, you won't have to pay for a rental while it's being repaired, will you? And if someone steals your ride, you're covered, right?
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
Submitting an insurance claim doesn't have to be painful experience. Follow these tips to get a quick response from your insurer.
Posted: September 1, 2010, 12:00 am
A study by Morningstar says the company's star rating system isn't the most vital factor in predicting a mutual fund's performance.
Posted: August 31, 2010, 6:00 pm
Today's rapid-fire, anyone-can-play market makes it tougher for small companies to raise money to grow and hire. Do we need a new market to save the economy?
Posted: August 31, 2010, 6:00 pm
Millions of Americans going through foreclosure will become renters by necessity. Many others will rent by choice. Should the government keep subsidizing owners?
Posted: August 31, 2010, 9:00 am
Having a few hundred bucks at the right times in your life can make all the difference. Here's how to tuck away money for emergencies, even if you don't have much.
Posted: August 31, 2010, 12:00 am
You may be raising a family or buying a house, and expenses may be outpacing your growing income. How can you shrink your debt while boosting your savings?
Posted: August 31, 2010, 12:00 am
Social-networking sites might be fun and beneficial -- until your employer catches you bad-mouthing the boss or debt collectors use the sites to track you down.
Posted: August 31, 2010, 12:00 am
Car values are plunging, and the loss of your new car could leave you exposed for thousands of dollars. But protecting yourself is easy -- and reasonably cheap.
Posted: August 30, 2010, 12:00 am
How do you know if you have the right coverage? Here's a quick look at all of the options: term, whole, variable and universal.
Posted: August 30, 2010, 12:00 am
No one has to know that your thoughtful present was bought at half-price, came free after a rebate or was scored from a yard sale.
Posted: August 30, 2010, 12:00 am
Need some help affording college? A special skill or interest -- or even a particular last name -- can put a big dent in a student's tuition.
Posted: August 29, 2010, 12:00 am
STOCKS 101: Investing in stocks is not rocket science. The only real characteristics shared among successful stock investors are basic math skills, a critical eye, patience and discipline.
Posted: August 27, 2010, 6:17 pm
So you've decided to put your house on the market? Price it so that more buyers see it -- and notice it. Here's are 10 tips for getting the sale you want.
Posted: August 26, 2010, 12:40 am
If you're struggling to afford essentials, steer clear. But if you want to stretch your dollars and enjoy some small luxuries, these deals are worth a look -- but be quick.
Posted: August 25, 2010, 12:00 am
We've all heard of people who can't get insurance because of their age or their health. Here are conditions that could make it hard to buy coverage for your home.
Posted: August 23, 2010, 1:31 am
A huge database not only tracks claims, it also looks for risks -- which could cause dropped coverage and other nightmares for homeowners.
Posted: August 22, 2010, 11:53 pm
Better grab a pencil and pad. Here's exactly what you need to do at each stage from 10 years before retirement to the Big R.
Posted: August 19, 2010, 12:00 am
There are some things I do like about celebrity financial adviser Suze Orman. But do her one-size-fits-all answers really fit you?
Posted: August 18, 2010, 7:01 pm
Put more cash in your pocket and protect your portfolio with funds that pay dividends and interest. It's probably better than stuffing your money under a mattress (or in Treasurys).
Posted: August 18, 2010, 7:00 pm
A reader wonders whether paying debts from a half-decade ago is a good idea -- or whether it would restart the clock for their inclusion in his credit reports.
Posted: August 18, 2010, 12:00 am
The time for mistakes is over. If you haven't begun to build wealth, to control debt, to look toward retirement, then now is the time.
Posted: August 18, 2010, 12:00 am
You're asking for big trouble by simply cutting up and tossing your old credit cards. Instead, try these 6 methods for foolproof data destruction.
Posted: August 18, 2010, 12:00 am
Insurance companies won't randomly decide to drop you or raise your rates. But many things could put you on your insurer's bad side.
Posted: August 17, 2010, 12:00 am
In the market for a new set of wheels? Before you step foot in a dealership, arm yourself with these tips. If you don't, you could be taken for a ride.
Posted: August 17, 2010, 12:00 am
You don't need plastic to establish credit, but you do need a good credit history even if you don't intend to borrow. Here are 7 tips -- plus 4 traps to avoid.
Posted: August 15, 2010, 7:36 pm
The first step to planning your aging parents' financial future is to get the conversation started.
Posted: August 13, 2010, 12:00 am
A simple formula can help you figure out how much you can afford to borrow -- and for how long. If you're lucky, it could be the last time you'll need to finance a vehicle.
Posted: August 12, 2010, 12:00 am
For starters, you may not need as much money as you might think, say 2 financial experts who challenge the conventional wisdom.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
All you have to do is bet wrong on your funds, bet wrong on inflation, bet wrong on your expenses. Here are the questions you need to ask yourself as you start planning.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
Remember those long-standing guidelines like closing old credit card accounts, never maxing out cards and asking for lower interest rates? Well, you can forget them now.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
If you find yourself behind on your mortgage, either route may seem like the wrong direction. But your choice will have a big impact. Here's how to make the right one.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
The Great Recession has forced millions of Americans to embrace financial sobriety. Whether the new thriftiness endures may depend on how fast the economy rebounds.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
The curtain has parted, albeit slightly, on the mystery of how your credit rating is calculated. Find out what these common credit problems can do to your standing.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
Why waste money on shiny packaging and a fancy store when you can find it online and 'pre-owned' for a fraction of the cost? Here are your best buys.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
Insurance agents reveal what their customers should be asking -- but often don't -- before deciding what kind of coverage to buy.
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
What guarantees do you have that you won't lose your money? Why is a store credit card more dangerous than a general-purpose card?
Posted: August 11, 2010, 12:00 am
It has become common for retailers to request your ID, your e-mail address and even your Social Security number. Are you obligated to provide them?
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
Most people don't find out their insurance was inadequate until it's too late. Here's how to gauge the strength of your safety net before life does it for you.
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
Vehicles that have survived a wreck or flooding may be cheap but could also be risky. Fortunately, it's getting easier to discover a used car's sordid past.
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
Difficult times call for different measures, and old guidelines no longer apply. These steps can help you get the most out of what you have.
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
A few simple calculations can tell you whether you're doing fine or staring at debt disaster. And be sure to see how your peers are handling their burdens as well.
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
The Age of Retirement is over, and a new social revolution is afoot: A majority of boomers expect to earn a paycheck in retirement, and that's a good thing.
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
It's time to plan for your retirement -- where you'll live, what you'll do and what it'll cost. Pay special attention now to career prospects, health and insurance.
Posted: August 10, 2010, 12:00 am
You pay your premiums, but when your car is damaged, you balk because you fear a claim will mean higher insurance rates. Here are 6 insights to guide you.
Posted: August 6, 2010, 12:00 am
If you claimed retirement benefits early but were forced back to work by an uncertain economy, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise.
Posted: August 5, 2010, 12:00 am
No, it won't make you bad parents. It's fiscally irresponsible to spend your retirement money on your children's education.
Posted: August 4, 2010, 12:00 am
If you reject rental car coverage without a second thought or assume the government would cover you in a natural disaster, think again.
Posted: August 4, 2010, 12:00 am
Almost all of us have a few budget leaks, whether it's careless spending or tiny indulgences that add up over time. Plug them up and watch your savings grow.
Posted: August 4, 2010, 12:00 am
Common mistakes include opting for a cut-rate policy that can stick you with tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.
Posted: August 4, 2010, 12:00 am
To cut costs, buy textbooks online, leave the car at home, and watch that cellphone bill.
Posted: August 4, 2010, 12:00 am
The answer depends on your health, income, age, savings and whether you have a spouse, kids or mortgage. Here's a simple way to calculate an actual dollar amount.
Posted: August 3, 2010, 12:00 am
The better shape you're in when you retire, the more you'll have to pay for health care, a report says -- as much as $105,000 more than someone in poor health
Posted: August 3, 2010, 12:00 am
The answer depends on your health, income, age, savings and whether you have a spouse, kids or mortgage. Here's a simple way to calculate an actual dollar amount.
Posted: August 3, 2010, 12:00 am
Some 'savings' are financial disasters in the making, but others really do put money back in your pocket. And when money is short, it's crucial to know where you can safely skimp.
Posted: August 3, 2010, 12:00 am
This is your last chance to get retirement-ready. Here's the game plan to make sure your numbers add up before you call it quits at work.
Posted: August 3, 2010, 12:00 am
PORTFOLIO 105: Your asset allocation is your portfolio's blend of stocks, bonds and cash. Finding the best asset mix is crucial if you want to meet your goals.
Posted: August 1, 2010, 9:00 am
With post-crisis credit still tight, you'll need to work harder to demonstrate you can handle a mortgage. Jump through these 5 hoops to prove you're worthy.
Posted: July 14, 2010, 12:00 am
Following a spending plan has as much to do with attitude as it does with finances. It should suit your goals -- and no one else's. Here's how to figure it out.
Posted: July 8, 2010, 12:00 am
Small, routine steps taken throughout your vehicle's lifetime can save you headaches and a lot of money in the long run. Here's how to make your car last longer.
Posted: July 7, 2010, 12:00 am
It's not by working for someone else. But unless you're totally driven, multimillionaire magazine founder Felix Dennis says, you probably shouldn't even try.
Posted: July 7, 2010, 12:00 am
For a huge number of troubled debtors, it all began with a car. Too much car, financed too long, traded too soon.
Posted: July 7, 2010, 12:00 am
You can get by with a smaller nest egg by using these frugal strategies. For example, cut back on bills and consider moving to a place with a lower cost of living.
Posted: July 6, 2010, 12:00 am
There's a lot to consider when insuring a car -- rates, teen drivers, what happens if you have an accident. Is your insurer looking out for you?
Posted: July 6, 2010, 12:00 am
It's good to have goals, but if the end zone is unreachable (or a recession wasn't in your game plan), it might be time to move the goal posts.
Posted: July 6, 2010, 12:00 am
Whether you've lost your job or not, this downturn will almost certainly mold your ideas about money. And if you learn what hard times can teach, it'll serve you well in the years ahead.
Posted: July 6, 2010, 12:00 am
Medical identity theft is a growing problem, and recovering from the theft can be difficult. Here's what to watch for and how to protect yourself.
Posted: July 6, 2010, 12:00 am
There's a system behind coupons, rebates and store incentives. Figure it out, and the store aisles are rich with freebies for you and those you want to help.
Posted: July 5, 2010, 6:52 pm
Don't toss that busted iPod. Don't just take those old books and CDs to a thrift store. These online outlets might give you cool cash for your castoffs.
Posted: July 5, 2010, 6:52 pm
Listen to the insiders: Free shipping isn't really free. You're better off pretending to be a new customer than showing any loyalty. And those stellar reviews? Forget 'em.
Posted: July 5, 2010, 6:52 pm
It's the grocery cycle: You shop, you buy, you eat, then start over. But being prepared along with being vigilant on prices, coupons and brands can save big bucks.
Posted: July 5, 2010, 6:52 pm
Everyone knows what to do first: Jump for joy. But the moves you make after that are crucial, and missteps could cost you dearly.
Posted: July 2, 2010, 1:59 am
Marriages -- even former ones -- can have significant financial advantages. Here's a look at how having said 'I do' can win you more in retirement benefits.
Posted: June 30, 2010, 12:00 am
Should you use a debit card or a credit card? Which retailers are safest? There are some big differences when you pay with plastic.
Posted: June 28, 2010, 12:00 am
Once again, you can buy a house without a lot upfront -- or even with no down payment. Here are 5 options for potential homeowners who are short on cash.
Posted: June 9, 2010, 12:00 am
Lease options can help buyers with bad credit get into homes they're not qualified to purchase otherwise. The pitfalls are many, but there are smart ways to avoid them.
Posted: June 8, 2010, 6:37 pm
If you're just entering the work force, now is the best time to ensure that when you make your exit, you can retire comfortably.
Posted: June 7, 2010, 5:30 pm
The companies that made MSN Money's 2010 Hall of Fame do more than respect their customers -- they also value and empower their employees.
Posted: May 18, 2010, 9:00 am
Few couples see eye to eye on every money issue, but if your spouse's spending is really out of control, simply setting up separate accounts isn't going to fix things.
Posted: May 9, 2010, 5:52 pm
The more you and your no-longer-beloved own, the more your breakup will cost. But if you can work through the anger and pain, you might save thousands. Here's how.
Posted: May 3, 2010, 7:15 pm
You may feel 'the dark cloud of debt' over you. Before it turns into a storm, assess your situation with guidelines that can help you avoid worse trouble.
Posted: April 14, 2010, 7:17 pm
You may not need full coverage for an older vehicle. Instead, consider dropping everything but liability insurance; the savings could help pay for your next car.
Posted: April 6, 2010, 11:01 pm
Put aside the romantic notion that love conquers all -- and pull out your calculators. Successful partnerships require a plan, a CFO (usually) and regular progress reports.
Posted: March 31, 2010, 8:58 pm
Here's how to dodge the repo man and buy some time while you try to pull your financial life together.
Posted: March 23, 2010, 9:43 pm
Paying down your mortgage may not be the best use of your cash. Take a look at the numbers and consider these avenues to get more bang for your buck.
Posted: March 16, 2010, 12:00 am
If you've got a mountain of debt, is it better to fight it with a snowball or an avalanche? The cold truth is that one size doesn't fit all.
Posted: January 20, 2010, 8:06 pm
Most of us can't tackle all of our spending and saving needs at once. But following this outline can make it a lot easier to keep your finances on track.
Posted: January 17, 2010, 9:38 pm
If you shop online and don't check for discount codes before you buy, you're missing out. They're good for dollars off, free shipping or gifts.
Posted: December 4, 2009, 2:12 am
Does your homeowners policy cover falling space debris? Animal stampedes? Lava flows? You might be surprised to learn what your insurance will pay for -- and what it won't.
Posted: December 2, 2009, 11:21 pm
As your life changes, your coverage might need to change with it. Is it time for you to do some comparison shopping?
Posted: December 2, 2009, 7:18 pm
You won't get the deals reserved for those with stellar credit scores, but you can snag some new wheels if you really need them.
Posted: December 1, 2009, 12:22 am
re you feeling like a savvy negotiator because you've persuaded a dealer to sell you the car you want at the price you want? Good for you -- but you're only halfway done.
Posted: November 27, 2009, 2:25 am
Don't believe everything you've heard. For many drivers, leasing can be a better deal than buying. Here's what you need to know before you head into a showroom.
Posted: November 27, 2009, 1:17 am
Faced with a dizzying array of investment options, deciding where to put your money can be daunting. But starting small doesn't mean it won't pay off big.
Posted: November 11, 2009, 7:54 pm
Don't overpay taxes on income that's protected by the US tax code. Here are the major categories to watch, including 5 types of raises that don't add a dime to your taxable income.
Posted: November 4, 2009, 7:14 pm
It may not be due to something you did wrong. It may even be triggered by an IRS error. But there are ways to reduce the chances of getting that dreaded letter.
Posted: November 4, 2009, 5:26 pm
Thinking of buying all your favorite stocks with just a grand? Forget it. For your own safety, you'll need a different approach. Fortunately, there's free help.
Posted: November 4, 2009, 9:00 am
If you're new to investing, it can look complicated. But it doesn't need to be. This is part 5 of 5 parts.
Posted: November 3, 2009, 9:00 am
If you're new to investing, it can look complicated. But it doesn't need to be. This is part 3 of 5 parts.
Posted: November 3, 2009, 9:00 am
If you're new to investing, it can look complicated. But it doesn't need to be. This is part 4 of 5 parts.
Posted: November 3, 2009, 9:00 am
Don't toss that busted iPhone or take those old books and CDs to a thrift store. These online outlets might give you cash for your castoffs.
Posted: October 16, 2009, 9:00 am
Here are mistakes to avoid and tips to follow so you can start paying off your debt today.
Posted: September 22, 2009, 10:13 pm
Check your policy before you head to Europe for a month or leave your house empty for any other reason. Your home might not be insured while you're away.
Posted: June 29, 2009, 11:53 pm