Strong Earnings Balance out an Unstable Europe for a Flat Week
Italy adds to Europe’s financial woes, but the American markets rebound after weekly jobless claims fall below the critical 400,000 level.
Gifting Stocks to Children
Gifting shares of a company children are familiar with can be a good way to teach them about investing.
Tax-Free Distributions to Charity
Taxpayers age 70½ or older are allowed a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), which lets you to direct your IRA trustee to make a distribution, up to $100,000, directly from your IRA to a qualified charity. This QCD fulfills the required minimum distribution for the year.
Women and Retirement Planning
According to the latest Census Bureau wealth study, in the critical 55-to-64 age bracket, when household wealth typically builds to its peak before being drawn down in retirement, the median net worth for married couples is about four times higher than that of singles.
Early Retirement Offers
An early retirement offer may sound like a blessing, but before you accept, the “Money Talks” hosts discuss how it may affect your future financially.
How Does Cash Value in a Life Insurance Policy Really Work?
Cash value life insurance comes in many forms, so people often get confused. Learn more how the cash value works in this week’s Insurance Tip.
Social Security and Medicare Figures for 2012
The Social Security Administration has announced that for the first time since 2009, a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be paid to Social Security beneficiaries and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. Monthly benefits will increase 3.6% starting in January 2012 for Social Security beneficiaries and starting on December 30, 2011, for SSI recipients. Read more in this Financial Tip.
Is It a Business or a Hobby?
You sold your tomatoes at the farmer’s market, but is your garden considered a business or a hobby? It’s complicated. Read this week’s Tax Tip for more.
Evaluating Risk in Your Portfolio
While you may judge your portfolio on its return, don’t neglect to consider the risk incurred in obtaining those returns. Read this week’s Financial Tip for more.
Greek Drama Set Stage for a Down Week Despite Strong Earnings Stateside
Greece created more drama in Europe, but the Fed is committed to keeping status quo stateside in this week’s Market Roundup.