It takes how long to open a child’s savings account?
Oct 01, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
‘Regulatory overkill’ means opening a child’s account is slow and laborious with parents forced to produce masses of documentation – and even watch videos How long should it take to open a simple savings account? When Michelle O’Brien popped into her local Lloyds to open an Junior Isa for her son, Aiden, who is three, […]
Phones 4U break-up looms as administrator dismisses debt-for-equity bid
Sep 18, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
The administrator of Phones 4U has rejected a bid to revive the collapsed and debt-laden retailer with a debt-for-equity swap as unrealistic. It means the chain of 550 stores is almost certain to be broken up and sold off, with EE and Vodafone in position to pick off the best locations and the likelihood of […]
Consider Inventing as a Form of Investment
Aug 21, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
Like any traditional business venture, inventing involves spending money to make money. Therefore, when contemplating the commercialization (and monetization) of an idea for an invention, think about all opportunities you have to spend your money and then consider whether it makes sense to invest. To make a good decision, have a clear understanding of this fascinating and exciting enterprise. Often, […]
Mortgage Rates Slip to Near Lows for the Year
Aug 14, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
WASHINGTON — Average long-term U.S. mortgage rates declined this week, approaching their lows for the year. Mortgage company Freddie Mac said Thursday the nationwide average for a 30-year loan slipped to 4.12 percent from 4.14 percent last week. The average for a 15-year mortgage, a popular choice for people who are refinancing, fell to 3.24 […]
3 Ways to Enjoy Traveling Without Breaking the Bank
Jul 01, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
Who wouldn’t want the chance to travel more? Unfortunately, many of us feel limited by our finances. Let’s face it: vacations aren’t cheap, and other goals should come first. These three ways could let you travel without breaking the bank. 1. Don’t Pay with Money: Instead Use Points and Miles Serious savings are available with […]
The student loan crisis isn’t as bad as it seems
Jun 25, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
Believe it or not, a new study says that student loan borrowers are doing just fine. Earlier this month, when President Barack Obama announced a plan to give more student loan borrowers access to an income-based repayment plan, he illustrated the trouble college students and recent graduates face by telling the story of a woman named Ashley […]
The Latest Gender Gap: People’s Views About Taxes
Jun 19, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
A new survey revealing key differences about how the sexes view their taxes. WalletHub”s 2014 Tax Fairness Survey, released last week, had its share of predictable findings: Four out of five respondents think the U.S. tax code is “complex” or “extremely complex.” Nearly two out of three want corporations to pay higher tax rates than […]
Appliance Sales Could Rise as Americans Upgrade: EcoPulse
May 07, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
Sales of appliances made by manufacturers such as Whirlpool Corp. and Electrolux AB are poised to rise this year as Americans replace aging machines. Consumers may be willing to buy these types of big-ticket items again as a confluence of economic indicators — including hiring gains and improved confidence — suggests homeowners will unleash some pent-up […]
3 Everyday Events That Can Teach Your Kids About Money
Apr 28, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
I believe teaching kids about money is one of the most loving things you can do as a parent. Americans, especially younger generations, is struggling with financial literacy. The popular Jump$tart personal finance testshowed that 63 percent of nearly 6,000 high school students failed their test on financial literacy basics. Living in a society that struggles with credit card […]
American Consumers in 2013 Most Upbeat Since Before Recession
Jan 02, 2014
Jeremy Parkinson
Finance
American consumers in 2013 were more upbeat than at any time in the previous six years as views on the economy, finances and the buying climate improved. The Bloomberg Consumer Comfort Index (COMFCOMF) averaged minus 31.4 for 2013, the highest since 2007, when it was minus 10.5. The weekly index fell for the first time since mid-November, […]