Dec 23rd, 2008 · When hard times hit, Americans can usually fall back on their credit cards for emergency purchases. But in this recession, credit card companies are hurting too. They're passing their pain onto their customers by lowering limits, raising rates and tightening deadlines.
Dec 18th, 2008 · The Bush administration said on Thursday that it wouldn't let U.S. automakers fall apart — at least not without some structured plan. But it's not just the Detroit Three that are in dire straits. Inventories are stacking up and consumers are steering clear of car purchases for all makes and models.
Nov 25th, 2008 · The Fed said it will purchase up to $100 billion in direct obligations from mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, as well as the Federal Home Loan Banks. It also will purchase another $500 billion in mortgage-backed securities — pools of mortgages that are bundled together and sold to investors.
Nov 17th, 2008 · Energy Star has posted new energy ratings for TVs to help consumers evaluate potential purchases. But an Energy Star listing alone doesn't mean the TV uses less energy. It means the TV is efficient — compared with others in its class.
Nov 17th, 2008 · With many retailers teetering on the edge of insolvency, consumers who purchased additional product protection and service plans remain worried that their coverage may cease if the company fails. But many of these plans are administered and underwritten by third-party companies.
Nov 11th, 2008 · U.S. officials have lavished aid on Fannie Mae and AIG and neither company shows any signs of stabilizing. Meanwhile, the first $350 billion of the Treasury Department's TARP fund is largely committed and the government is yet to purchase its first mortgage-backed security.
Oct 29th, 2008 · In this week's edition of the Political Junkie: McCain aides have expressed irritation with Sarah Palin's off-script remarks and Barack Obama has purchased a half-hour of prime-time TV. Also: Will Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens campaign as a convicted felon?
Oct 14th, 2008 · The government's decision to purchase minority stakes in financial institutions and further expand its deposit insurance programs will give it unprecedented power over financial institutions. It's an intervention many find unsavory, but necessary.