Vicki Passmore
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Today in Money & Finance: Thursday, Sept. 6 -- Dogs of the Dow, Best Markets for Landlords, Luxe for the Rest of Us
In the News:
A Potential Model for U.S. Health-Care
The Netherlands is using competition and a small dose of regulation to pursue what many in the U.S. hunger to achieve: health insurance for everyone, coupled with a tighter lid on costs.
The Best Markets for Landlords
Whether they're waiting out the housing storm, or smack in the middle of it, an increasing number of Americans are choosing to rent, not own. And that's good news for landlords and investors.
Foreclosures and risky lending have dogged the housing market. As lenders have tightened their standards, attractive mortgages have grown harder to come by. Yet rental fundamentals have remained strong, especially in the 10 areas that made our list of Best Markets for Landlords.
Have Your Cake and No Sugar Too? Um, no.
Most nonsugar sweeteners will taste fine in your tea or lemonade. But use some of them for baking a cake, and you could have a real flop. These are the findings of Consumer Reports tests of 13 lower-calorie and no-calorie sweeteners, which we added to drinks and used to bake cookies and cakes, following package directions. We found that no sweetener does it all and that no-calorie products didn't bake as well as lower-calorie sweeteners: In other words, you can't really have your cake and no sugar too.
Household Glue: Some Claims Don't Stick
Glue makers have enlisted snarling rhinos, glaring gorillas, and sumo wrestlers to tout their promises of "incredible strength," "truly all-purpose," and "Glues whatever. Bonds forever." But those claims didn't stick in our lab tests. Most of the multipurpose adhesives, superglues, epoxies, and wood glues that we tested were adequately strong for their intended purpose. But no single adhesive worked for everything -- and a few barely worked at all.
Run With These 10 Dogs of the Dow?
What could be a better antidote to market volatility than a mixture of high-yielding blue chips? How about the ten top payers in the Dow Jones industrial average, better known as the Dogs of the Dow? The top-yielding blue chips make faithful companions during unpredictable times, but some will be better company than others as the market volatility subsides.
Luxury for the rest of us
Here's a look at the less expensive polishes, perfumes and pendants that make regular folks feel like a million bucks.
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/news/0708/gallery.luxury_gateway/index.html
5 luxe limited editions
These days carrying a Gucci bag doesn't mean you're special -- or ever particularly unique. Once the sole province of the elite, luxury has gone mass market. So luxe retailers are getting creative, ginning up one-of-a-kind items that recapture exclusivity.
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/news/0708/gallery.luxury_premium/
Today in Money & Finance: Wednesday, Sept. 5 -- Fastest Growing Companies, RockYou, Amanda Beard's Financial Strokes
In the News:
100 Fastest Growing Companies
Even in a turbulent market, some companies are still enjoying exhilarating growth spurts. A stunning 37 of this year's fast-growers come from the energy sector, while some seemingly fleeting trends - like energy drinks - proved to have surprising staying power. Full List | See the Top 25
Plus: 10 Investments Poised to Soar
Plus: 10 Investments Poised to Soar
Inside Celebrity Closets
We see Lindsay Lohan wearing Chanel on what sometimes seems like a daily basis. And Jessica Simpson shows up in duds from Los Angeles-boutique Madison every other week. But what of this red-carpet stuff --Balenciaga gowns and Christian Louboutin pumps -- do stars themselves pay for? Not much.See which designers these celebs wear most. Inside Hollywood's Closets - Forbes.com
An Organic Milk Ripoff
The government says one of the nation's largest producers of organic milk has been breaking the rules, says Fortune's Marc Gunther.
Credit Card Survival Guide
Tips for staying out of debt, managing your debt, and navigating your credit-card contract.
Confessions of a Credit Card Pusher
One student's story of how he was recruited to peddle credit cards on campus and the troubles he found for himself.
RockYou: Takes Photo Sharing Up a Notch
Jia Shen, 27, wanted to make a big splash with his new photo-sharing site, RockYou, so he targeted users of social networks such as MySpace and Facebook. Shen is clearly onto something. In May, red-hot social network Facebook added RockYou to the list of outside applications Facebook fans can add to their personal pages; 15 million have signed up. RockYou invites members to share their work at Facebook, MySpace, eBay, blogs and newer social sites such as Bebo, Hi5, Tagged and Zorpia. "The whole point of sharing is to be able to see your pictures all over the Internet, not on just one site," says Shen, RockYou's co-founder and chief technology officer. "We don't want to keep you on our site; we want you to go to MySpace and Facebook, where your friends are."
Amanda Beard's Financial Strokes
Now, Beard splits her time between honing her killer breaststroke and her business skills. Today, she's as successful in the pool as out of it. Not only does she have seven Olympic medals (two gold, four silver, one bronze) and a world record to her name, but also a burgeoning business empire, a modeling career and a slew of endorsement deals with the likes of Speedo and Red Bull that help pull in roughly $1 million a year.
Now, Beard splits her time between honing her killer breaststroke and her business skills. Today, she's as successful in the pool as out of it. Not only does she have seven Olympic medals (two gold, four silver, one bronze) and a world record to her name, but also a burgeoning business empire, a modeling career and a slew of endorsement deals with the likes of Speedo and Red Bull that help pull in roughly $1 million a year.
See why she turned down the promise of million-dollar endorsement deals at age 14, what she splurges on now and more. http://www.smartmoney.com/mymoney/index.cfm?story=20070904&hpadref=1
Today in Money & Finance: Tuesday, Sept 4 -- Credit Cards on Campus, MySpace for Traders, Internet Puppy Scams, Diesel Takes on Hybrids
In the News:
First-Born Kids Become CEO Material
Scientists have found that first-born children are smarter than their brothers and sisters. It appears they are more likely to succeed in business, too. Be it drive or aptitude or a slightly higher IQ, the advantage crosses gender and international lines. Ben Dattner, a psychology professor at New York University who has studied birth order, says it makes sense that first-born children rise to the top. They are often more extroverted, confident, assertive, authoritarian, dominant, inflexible, conformist, politically conservative, task-oriented, conscientious, disciplined, defensive about errors, and fearful of losing position and rank.
Majoring in Credit Card Debt
Over the next month, as 17 million college students flood the nation's campuses, they will be greeted by swarms of credit-card marketers. Frisbees, T-shirts, and even iPods will be used as enticements to sign up, and marketing on the Web will reinforce the message. Many kids will go for it. Some 75% of college students have credit cards now, up from 67% in 1998. Just a generation earlier, a credit card on campus was a great rarity. But this aggressive on-campus marketing by credit-card companies is coming under fire. What should be done to educate students about the dangers of plastic?
http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/sep2007/db2007093_443488.htm?campaign_id=twxa
Over the next month, as 17 million college students flood the nation's campuses, they will be greeted by swarms of credit-card marketers. Frisbees, T-shirts, and even iPods will be used as enticements to sign up, and marketing on the Web will reinforce the message. Many kids will go for it. Some 75% of college students have credit cards now, up from 67% in 1998. Just a generation earlier, a credit card on campus was a great rarity. But this aggressive on-campus marketing by credit-card companies is coming under fire. What should be done to educate students about the dangers of plastic?
http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/sep2007/db2007093_443488.htm?campaign_id=twxa
MySpace for Traders
Like other areas of the Internet, online trading sites are turning into shared experiences. Taking a cue from social sites, new online brokers give clients a place to network. By incorporating message boards, blogs, chat rooms, and podcasts, the new sites reflect growing demand for two-way flows of information. Investors no longer want to be just on the receiving end of content. Whether these sites can unleash the wisdom of the crowd for market players remains to be seen. But you can bet that in investing, as in other corners of the Web, the urge for community will grow stronger --and the bigger players may have to respond to the upstarts. http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_37/b4049089.htm?campaign_id=twxa
Quite a Racket, Literally
Called the "greatest phenomenom in tennis racket history," Babolat tennis rackets have taken the tennis world by storm. Light and maneuverable, with hip looks and features such as a "woofer" system that keeps the ball on the strings longer and vibration filtering, the rackets have won instant converts, like Andy Roddick, the top-ranked American at this week's U.S. Open. Known primarily for strings, Babolat (BAH-bow-lah) took a swing at the racket market in 1994 and has become the fastest-growing maker in the world.
How Much Is That Puppy in the (PC) Window?
Internet scammers are luring online puppy buyers with cute pictures and false promises, taking would-be dog owners for an emotional and financial ride.
Internet scammers are luring online puppy buyers with cute pictures and false promises, taking would-be dog owners for an emotional and financial ride.
Not Your Father's Diesel
Environmentally-conscious car buyers are turning to hybrids more than ever, but soon, a new (and rather surprising) contender will join the green line-up at dealerships: diesel. An earth-friendly diesel may sound like an oxymoron to those who remember Detroit's first attempts with these engines back in the 1980s. General Motors' diesel Oldsmobiles were "smelly, noisy and horribly unreliable." It's no surprise then that Americans have stayed away from diesel ever since. First impressions, after all, last. Despite its fuel efficiency - on average 20% to 40% better than gasoline - less than 1% of all registered vehicles on the road today are powered by diesel. That should soon change. Clean, green, fuel-efficient diesel cars that are set to hit dealerships as soon as next year. Here's what you need to know about the "new" diesel and whether it merits a spot in your garage.
Environmentally-conscious car buyers are turning to hybrids more than ever, but soon, a new (and rather surprising) contender will join the green line-up at dealerships: diesel. An earth-friendly diesel may sound like an oxymoron to those who remember Detroit's first attempts with these engines back in the 1980s. General Motors' diesel Oldsmobiles were "smelly, noisy and horribly unreliable." It's no surprise then that Americans have stayed away from diesel ever since. First impressions, after all, last. Despite its fuel efficiency - on average 20% to 40% better than gasoline - less than 1% of all registered vehicles on the road today are powered by diesel. That should soon change. Clean, green, fuel-efficient diesel cars that are set to hit dealerships as soon as next year. Here's what you need to know about the "new" diesel and whether it merits a spot in your garage.
Today in Money & Finance -- Friday, August 31 -- Help for At-Risk Mortgages, Best Renters' Markets, Credit Card Ratings
In the News:
FHA to Help Refi At-Risk Loans
Some homeowners with risky "subprime" adjustable-rate mortgages will be able to refinance before they lose their home to foreclosure, with the help of steps President Bush will announce Friday, senior administration officials said Thursday night. An estimated 80,000 homeowners with bruised credit and subprime ARMs they can no longer afford will be able to refinance loans, which the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) would insure.
Best Renters' Markets
If you're looking to rent property -- for whatever reason -- the best place to try is Atlanta, where rental vacancies are expanding and prices are going up slower than inflation. Not far behind are Denver and Phoenix, where yields and supply problems are giving investors fits, but making life easy for renters.
The Best & Worst Credit Cards
When it comes to swiping plastic, consumers gave high ratings to American Express, Discover, as well as to cards issued by credit unions in a report released Thursday rating the best and worst credit cards. In a survey of more than 36,000 cardholders conducted by Consumer Reports, five of the largest MasterCard and Visa issuers, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citibank, Capital One, and HSBC -- which together control about 80 percent of the market -- earned mediocre rating scores.
10 Cars With Bad Reputations
Whether for being "nerdy" (AMC Pacer) or "unreliable" (Yugo), when asked to name the "Most questionable cars" of all time, these were the top vote-getters.
The 12 Worst U.S. Airports for Delays
Long lines, late flights, near collisions -- everyone is unhappy with the U.S. air travel system. And no one, not even the FAA, seems able to do anything about it. BusinessWeek takes a look at the problem and shares the 12 airports ranked poorest in terms of percentage of delayed departures for the first six months of 2007.
Slash Insurance Costs
Getting the right insurance coverage can save you big. See how implementing a few strategies can save you hundreds -- or thousands -- of dollars.
Today in Money & Finance -- Wednesday, August 8 -- Real Estate Gripe Sites, Energy Drink Ratings, Strong Stocks in a Stormy Market
In the News:
Earnings
Angriest Real Estate Gripe Sites
Disgruntled homeowners are turning to the Web to organize and attack unresponsive builders for faulty construction. Here are 12 sites that generated the most anger and the most support.
Energy Drink Ratings
You drink them cold, but energy drinks are hot. U.S. consumers spent $744 million on those caffeinated beverages during the year ending June 17, 2007, a 34 percent increase over the previous year. With names like Rockstar, Full Throttle, and No Fear, they may appeal especially to young adults. Consumer Reports tested 12 carbonated energy drinks (9 regular and 3 low-calorie) for caffeine content and taste.
Also: Do you know what's in your sports drink?
Gizmo Glam
Who says your iPod shouldn't look as hot as you do? USA TODAY and Seventeen magazine weigh in on gadget gear that's just right for the classroom. From embellished headphones to high-fashion iPod cases, see what's "geek" and what's "chic."
Top Five Jobs by Education Level
The top five jobs for those with an associates degree are: Physical therapist assistants, dental hygienists, forensic science techs, veterinary techs and diagnostic medical sonographers. See what the top five are for those with bachelor's, master's, doctoral and professional degrees.
On-The-Road Rewards
Car-rental-loyalty programs offer all sorts of perks. SmartMoney looks at the best of the bunch.
Strong Stocks in a Stormy Market
Here are some ideas that ought to be calmer than most while the market puts you through some unusually volatile ups and downs.
Beach Home for Sale: four bedrooms, two baths, $20,000.
Americans and Europeans are buying seaside summer homes on Canada's rock-ribbed Newfoundland coast for the price of a used SUV, taking advantage of the area's warming climate and struggling economy.
Today in Money & Finance -- Friday, July 27 -- Best Global Brands, Best-Paying Blue Collar Jobs, Deluxe Airport Lounges & How to Survive a Market Drop
In the News:
Earnings:
Spoiling Spot: America's Booming Pet Economy
If there's still any doubt whether the pampering of pets is getting out of hand, the debate should be settled once and for all by Neuticles, a patented testicular implant that sells for up to $919 a pair. The idea, says inventor Gregg A. Miller, is to "let people restore their pets to anatomical preciseness" after neutering, thereby allowing them to retain their natural look and self-esteem. Americans now spend $41 billion a year on their pets - more than the gross domestic product of all but 64 countries in the world. That's double the amount shelled out on pets a decade ago, with annual spending expected to hit $52 billion in the next two years. That puts the yearly cost of buying, feeding, and caring for pets in excess of what Americans spend on the movies ($10.8 billion), playing video games ($11.6 billion), and listening to recorded music ($10.6 billion) combined. BW Cover Story
BW's Best Global Brands 2007
Yes, Coca-Cola is still No.1. But several other brands have done well in the past year, shooting up the list by six or more spots. They range from Apple, which rode a wave of iPhone hype to the No.33 spot, to Nintendo, which has had runaway success with its Wii video game console, launched late last year. The biggest ranking jump came from Zara, an innovative Spanish fashion retailer that leaped nine spots to No.64. Far and away the biggest percentage jump was claimed by Google, jumping 44% and four spots to number 20.
How to Survive a Market Drop
You have to admit: Stocks have risen to mighty heights mighty fast. The Dow has hit three milestones in nine months - crossing 12,000 in October, 13,000 in April, and just last week, 14,000. On Thursday, the leading stock index closed down 311 points, or more than 2 percent, the second biggest point drop this year. The biggest came Feb. 27, when the Dow fell 416 points, or 3.3 percent. What to make of this? Stocks are volatile. Or more to the point, investors' emotions are. It takes nerves of steel to shake off a big stock drop. But the world's best investors not only shake them off - they thrive on them. Here are several simple and effective steps you can take to turn a stock market crash to your advantage.
Dollar-store deals and dangers
You can save as much as 70% on household supplies by shopping at your local dollar store. Dollar stores are able to offer such low prices because they buy most of their stock at reduced rates from wholesalers. Among the best deals to be found at dollar stores are on cleaning products, shampoo, school supplies, food-storage containers and snacks such as potato chips and crackers. But beware: Some of the products sold at dollar stores don't meet established safety and nutritional standards. Consumer Reports' Shop Smart magazine found that certain brands of multivitamins it tested didn't contain nutrients listed on the label.
Worse, the magazine found that several kinds of soft vinyl lunch boxes sold at dollar stores contained trace amounts of lead. It also warns consumers to steer clear of electrical products, like Christmas lights and extension cords, some of which contained undersized wiring that can pose a fire hazard.
(This is basically the whole article.)
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/dollar-store-deals-dangers/story.aspx?guid=%7B5F916616%2D0D7D%2D4766%2DA3DA%2DF8B1780B93A6%7D
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/dollar-store-deals-dangers/story.aspx?guid=%7B5F916616%2D0D7D%2D4766%2DA3DA%2DF8B1780B93A6%7D
Even Celebs Need a Rainy-Day Fund
Celebrities show their real-people side by sharing their savings experiences. See what Adam Brody, Jennifer Tilly, Jordan Knight and others have to say about the money they make.
Celebrities talk about emergency savings
Celebrities talk about emergency savings
America's Best-Paying Blue-Collar Jobs
While being tough to get into, these traditional manufacturing and service fields can be well paid.
While being tough to get into, these traditional manufacturing and service fields can be well paid.
Oink! Oink! The 10 Piggiest States
Belly up. It's feeding time in the nation's capital. Congress is deliberating 12 appropriations bills that are supposed to be passed by Sept. 30, the end of the fiscal year, and already we've seen some good examples of excess spending for lawmakers' pet projects back home, otherwise known as "pork." There's $30,000 requested by a Pennsylvania senator for a program called coolvirginity.com; there's $34.5 million that one influential Democratic Hawaiin senator, has sought for the "Education of Native Hawaiians." An unknown senator has set aside $1 million for the Irish Institute in Boston. Article | Slideshow: 10 Piggiest States
Belly up. It's feeding time in the nation's capital. Congress is deliberating 12 appropriations bills that are supposed to be passed by Sept. 30, the end of the fiscal year, and already we've seen some good examples of excess spending for lawmakers' pet projects back home, otherwise known as "pork." There's $30,000 requested by a Pennsylvania senator for a program called coolvirginity.com; there's $34.5 million that one influential Democratic Hawaiin senator, has sought for the "Education of Native Hawaiians." An unknown senator has set aside $1 million for the Irish Institute in Boston. Article | Slideshow: 10 Piggiest States
The Great Hotel Cover-Up
Hotels spent the last decade courting travelers and one-upping each other with plusher, sexier bathrobes. Now they're trying to stop terry-cloth clad guests from wandering into lobbies, bars, weddings and buffet lines. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118549508198979702.html?mod=hps_us_at_glance_wj
Deluxe Airport Lounges
Flying business-class has its perks: Wider seats, better food, and chichi toiletries. But increasingly, the real pampering starts before you get on the plane. Business 2.0 magazine has the details on some of the world's most lavish layovers. http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/biz2/0707/gallery.airport_clubs.biz2/index.html
Today in Money & Finance - Thursday, July 26 - Hottest Startups, Debit Card Smarts, Summer Tix Picks, Popular Mortgage Is No More
In the News:
Earnings:
31 of the World's Hottest Startups
It's a Web, Web, Web 2.0 world. It's not just Silicon Valley. The user-generated revolution is in full swing worldwide. From Joost to Stardoll, Business 2.0 Magazine picks the best non-U.S. sites to watch.
Debit Card Smarts
Debit cards are fast becoming U.S. consumers' plastic of choice. Bank customers used their cards more than 26 billion times last year to spend more than $1 trillion. Debit-card use now accounts for two-thirds of Visa's total transactions and half of its dollar volume. With more than 60% of those transactions less than $25, it's clear that shoppers see the cards as a convenient substitute for cash and checks. And many banks encourage debit-card use by offering rewards points. But the cards also raise concerns about security. To minimize risk, be smart about how you use your card. See if you should use a PIN or pen, and more.
Debit cards are fast becoming U.S. consumers' plastic of choice. Bank customers used their cards more than 26 billion times last year to spend more than $1 trillion. Debit-card use now accounts for two-thirds of Visa's total transactions and half of its dollar volume. With more than 60% of those transactions less than $25, it's clear that shoppers see the cards as a convenient substitute for cash and checks. And many banks encourage debit-card use by offering rewards points. But the cards also raise concerns about security. To minimize risk, be smart about how you use your card. See if you should use a PIN or pen, and more.
Hottest Summer Tickets for Under $50
You don't need to bend your budget to see the world's biggest international sports star, David Beckham take the field. For $35, you can grab an upper-tier seat at one of L.A. Galaxy's away or home games. Soccer not your cup of tea? Couldn't afford tickets to The Police reunion tour? To get your '80s fix, check out other popular bands from the bygone era. For example, we recently found tickets to see the B-52s in Atlanta starting at $21, Poison in Denver for $20 and Erasure in Brooklyn for $38. And for you Cure fans, move quickly: Tickets just went on sale for the band's tour in September and October. We recently spied seats for the Dallas show for $45.
Plus Article: Entertainment for Less
Most Popular Mortgage Is No More
Lenders have abruptly stopped offering the most popular type of subprime mortgage. Credit-challenged borrowers suddenly have fewer options. Over the past few years, the most common type of subprime loan has been an adjustable-rate mortgage known as the 2/28 ARM. Since mid-July, five of the six biggest subprime mortgage lenders stopped offering 2/28 ARMs. Suddenly, there's a shortage of the type of mortgage preferred by about 60 percent of subprime borrowers.
Lenders have abruptly stopped offering the most popular type of subprime mortgage. Credit-challenged borrowers suddenly have fewer options. Over the past few years, the most common type of subprime loan has been an adjustable-rate mortgage known as the 2/28 ARM. Since mid-July, five of the six biggest subprime mortgage lenders stopped offering 2/28 ARMs. Suddenly, there's a shortage of the type of mortgage preferred by about 60 percent of subprime borrowers.
Top Workout-Fueling Foods
Struggling to get through that morning workout? Wishing you had just a little more energy during your last 10 minutes on the treadmill? Forget about your training schedule -- it might be time to look at your diet.What you eat directly before exercising can have a huge impact on your performance and your ability to endure a challenging session. But few pay attention to just how they're filling their tanks. Here's what to eat.
Struggling to get through that morning workout? Wishing you had just a little more energy during your last 10 minutes on the treadmill? Forget about your training schedule -- it might be time to look at your diet.What you eat directly before exercising can have a huge impact on your performance and your ability to endure a challenging session. But few pay attention to just how they're filling their tanks. Here's what to eat.
Today in Money & Finance - Wednesday, July 25 - Unhealthy Commutes, Outrageous Rent, NOT Made in China & More
In the News:
Earnings:
America's Unhealthy Commutes
You might have heard that your commute is killing you. But it's not the doughnut and jumbo-sized coffee you've been downing every morning that's doing it. What's really taking a toll on your health is the polluted air you're breathing, lengthy traffic delays and dodging accidents to and from work. Even as the stress mounts, we put up with it, since most of us can't afford to or don't want to live near our offices.
You might have heard that your commute is killing you. But it's not the doughnut and jumbo-sized coffee you've been downing every morning that's doing it. What's really taking a toll on your health is the polluted air you're breathing, lengthy traffic delays and dodging accidents to and from work. Even as the stress mounts, we put up with it, since most of us can't afford to or don't want to live near our offices.
Why Buy When You Can Rent for $40K a Month!!
With $300,000, you could buy an above-average house in Worcester, Mass. -- straight cash. Or you could spend a week in the Caribbean at Richard Branson's Necker Island, the world's most expensive rental property. Though they could easily afford to buy an extra house or two, today's super-rich seem to have no trouble handing over tens, or even hundreds, of thousands of dollars a month to landlords for a temporary residence. They're willing to splurge even more on vacation rentals like Necker, which costs $46,000 a night for the entire 74-acre island -- complete with a nine-bedroom "great house," which comes with a kitchen and private chef, fully stocked bar, snooker table, piano, entertainment system, and outdoor terrace, as well as five one-bedroom private houses.
With $300,000, you could buy an above-average house in Worcester, Mass. -- straight cash. Or you could spend a week in the Caribbean at Richard Branson's Necker Island, the world's most expensive rental property. Though they could easily afford to buy an extra house or two, today's super-rich seem to have no trouble handing over tens, or even hundreds, of thousands of dollars a month to landlords for a temporary residence. They're willing to splurge even more on vacation rentals like Necker, which costs $46,000 a night for the entire 74-acre island -- complete with a nine-bedroom "great house," which comes with a kitchen and private chef, fully stocked bar, snooker table, piano, entertainment system, and outdoor terrace, as well as five one-bedroom private houses.
Own Your Piece of Paradise
Just as other real estate investments have started losing their appeal, a growing inventory of recreational land is attracting more buyers. See how to enjoy your rural getaway and at the same time diversify your investments.
NOT Made in China
In the midst of the imported food crisis, companies are finding clever ways to cash in. Some, like vitamin C maker DSM, are playing the "not from China" card. Upscale New York grocery Fairway reassures consumers that none of its seafood is Chinese. Others see a growing business in making this global supply chain safer. One big player: IBM, which is pushing systems to trace the food supply from source to market. See what other companies are enjoying the new demand.
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_31/b4044060.htm?campaign_id=twxa
In the midst of the imported food crisis, companies are finding clever ways to cash in. Some, like vitamin C maker DSM, are playing the "not from China" card. Upscale New York grocery Fairway reassures consumers that none of its seafood is Chinese. Others see a growing business in making this global supply chain safer. One big player: IBM, which is pushing systems to trace the food supply from source to market. See what other companies are enjoying the new demand.
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_31/b4044060.htm?campaign_id=twxa
7 Small Steps to Big Savings
The transition from dependence on paychecks to independent wealth all starts with emergency savings. You may believe you don't have extra savings set aside because you don't make enough money or you've had a run of bad luck. Or maybe you think you'll save after you get out of debt. It might be counterintuitive, but unless you start saving regularly, that day may never come. The big picture may seem overwhelming, but you can move from living paycheck-to-paycheck to a wealth mindset by following these steps.
http://aol1.bankrate.com/AOL/news/financial_literacy/July07_7_steps_to_big_sa! vings_a1 .asp
http://aol1.bankrate.com/AOL/news/financial_literacy/July07_7_steps_to_big_sa! vings_a1 .asp
Keeping Tabs on Kids' Phones
A new software application called Radar allows parents to monitor activity on their children's cell phones. The program is user-friendly enough for tech-shy parents, but it doesn't yet work with most basic cell phones.
Today in Money & Finance - Tuesday, July 24 -- America's Wildest Weather Cities, Least Affordable Markets, Best Product Design, Five-Finger Discount
In the News:
Earnings:
America's Wildest Weather Cities
Visiting Disney World anytime soon? Have fun, but watch for storms moving in. The odds of having to duck away from a bolt of lightning in the land of Disney's Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Fla., are greater than anywhere else in America. Florida has been home to over 1,500 lightning deaths and injuries since 1959, according to the National Weather Service. If you can't stand humidity, be sure to steer clear of Quillayute and Olympia, in the state of Washington, which both average about 80% humidity during the year. The windiest city? It's not Chicago, which doesn't even make the top 10. The distinction goes to Blue Hill, Mass. See the country's hottest, coldest, driest, most humid, oh you get the idea. Story | Slideshow
The Five-Finger Discount
Visiting Disney World anytime soon? Have fun, but watch for storms moving in. The odds of having to duck away from a bolt of lightning in the land of Disney's Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Fla., are greater than anywhere else in America. Florida has been home to over 1,500 lightning deaths and injuries since 1959, according to the National Weather Service. If you can't stand humidity, be sure to steer clear of Quillayute and Olympia, in the state of Washington, which both average about 80% humidity during the year. The windiest city? It's not Chicago, which doesn't even make the top 10. The distinction goes to Blue Hill, Mass. See the country's hottest, coldest, driest, most humid, oh you get the idea. Story | Slideshow
The Five-Finger Discount
It's more like the 50-finger discount these days. Shoplifters have been busier than ever, accounting for retail losses totaling $41.6 billion in 2006, up 11% from the previous year. Retailers are caught between keeping their stores inviting for shoppers and at the same time monitoring for theft. After all, there's been a growth in organized retail crime, where professional theft rings steal merchandise in large quantities and resell them on sites like eBay. From scrapbooking accessories to best-selling books, here's a look at their top targets.
Least Affordable U.S. Real Estate Markets
Forget coffee when it's time to sober up. Instead, check out the real estate listings in New York or Los Angeles. There, buyers pay $1 million for a property that might fetch half that elsewhere. The disparity illustrates how affordability has been spiraling out of control in places on the East and West coasts. See the 10 places where it's hardest to buy a home, where owning property is out of reach for most of the population.
Forget coffee when it's time to sober up. Instead, check out the real estate listings in New York or Los Angeles. There, buyers pay $1 million for a property that might fetch half that elsewhere. The disparity illustrates how affordability has been spiraling out of control in places on the East and West coasts. See the 10 places where it's hardest to buy a home, where owning property is out of reach for most of the population.
Story | Slideshow
Remaking The Ordinary
These designs refashion traditional and familiar products already in our homes, demonstrating how smart design can change our personal environment. See slideshow.
Remaking The Ordinary
These designs refashion traditional and familiar products already in our homes, demonstrating how smart design can change our personal environment. See slideshow.
World's Most Expensive Spa Treatments
These days, people are spending more time -- and more money -- at the spa. In 2006, 144 million people booked a spa visit, a 10% increase from 2005. This year, that number is expected to rise to 160 million. The average cost of a massage at a day spa is $88 ($138 at a resort spa). But decadent alternatives -- like the $450 Six Hands Lava Stone Massage at the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa in Maui, Hawaii -- are increasingly beginning to populate spa menus worldwide. And those looking to be pampered aren't put off by such prices. See the world's most expensive spa treatments. Story | Slideshow
Are Vitamin Drinks As Healthful as They Claim?
The explosion of nutrient-laced drinks reflects consumers' desire for more healthful choices than soda, and frenzied competition is fueling bold marketing claims. But many experts say there is little evidence to suggest that fortified beverages make a significant difference in health. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118523686276375626.html
Bumped Fliers May Get a Better Deal
Bumped Fliers May Get a Better Deal
Airline bumping, when passengers with confirmed reservations get left behind because of overbooking, is on the rise. Now, the government is considering raising the compensation that airlines have to pay customers who get bumped.
Today in Money & Finance - Monday, July 23 - 'Simpson's' Hype, Extreme Credit Cards, Best Summer Gear, Best Frequent Flier Programs
In the News:
'Simpson's' Hype: 7-Elevens Become Kwik-E-Marts
The Simpsons TV series on Fox is known for its outrageous characters, oddball phrases and unexpected guest stars. It only makes sense, then, that promotions for The Simpsons Movie, which opens Friday, would be in the same offbeat mold. One stunt was the overnight transformation of 12 North American 7-Eleven stores into Kwik-E-Marts. The Kwik-E-Mart, run by clerk Apu, is Springfield's convenience store. But the real star at the Kwik-E-Marts may be the "Sprinklicious" doughnuts, frosted in hot pink and coated with sprinkles. Homer, as any fan of the series knows, loves doughnuts. The Dallas Kwik-E-Mart is ordering 1,000 Sprinklicious doughnuts a day.
'Simpsons' hype tries for a homer with ads - USATODAY.com
New: Extreme Credit Cards
The "Black Card" is a status icon. Not only does it offer a range of exclusive privileges, but it looks cool when you pull it out of your wallet. And the titanium it's made out of makes a nice clinking sound when it taps on the counter at the register.. But now there's an influx of new high-end cards, offering their own fancy perks and services in an effort to take a bite out of the black card market. Whether they'll steal any of the dark card's thunder remains to be seen. http://money.cnn.com/2007/07/18/lifestyle/luxury_credit_cards/index.htm
Best Summer Gear
From a waterproof wrist camera to a water bottle splash guard, outfit yourself for hiking, biking and more with eight cool products made by small companies.
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/fsb/0707/gallery.summer_gear.fsb/
'Simpsons' hype tries for a homer with ads - USATODAY.com
New: Extreme Credit Cards
The "Black Card" is a status icon. Not only does it offer a range of exclusive privileges, but it looks cool when you pull it out of your wallet. And the titanium it's made out of makes a nice clinking sound when it taps on the counter at the register.. But now there's an influx of new high-end cards, offering their own fancy perks and services in an effort to take a bite out of the black card market. Whether they'll steal any of the dark card's thunder remains to be seen. http://money.cnn.com/2007/07/18/lifestyle/luxury_credit_cards/index.htm
Best Summer Gear
From a waterproof wrist camera to a water bottle splash guard, outfit yourself for hiking, biking and more with eight cool products made by small companies.
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/fsb/0707/gallery.summer_gear.fsb/
Ads We Can't Get Out of Our Heads
Even in a TiVo world, some TV commercials just can't be zapped from our cultural psyche. But selecting the 25 most-memorable TV commercials from the past 25 years almost caused USA TODAY's Ad Team to blow a tube. Here are the 25 TV spots - love em or hate em - that left the most indelible marks on their collective memory.
http://www.usatoday.com/money/top25-ads.htm?loc=interstitialskip
Most Rewarding Frequent Flier Programs
If you want to get more rewards from an airline frequent flier program, it may be time to stop looking for free flights. That's because the reward miles market is over-saturated--too many people have too many miles, causing intense competition for a limited number of reward seats. Only 7% of airline seats per year are designated as reward ticket seats. And ever financially vulnerable airlines are becoming more reluctant to give up seats for rewards tickets that can otherwise be filled by a customer willing to purchase the ticket. Instead, they're looking for different ways to compensate and retain their most loyal customers.
http://www.forbes.com/lifestyle/2007/07/20/travel-fliers-frequent-forbeslife-cx_ls_0720rewards.html
Slideshow: Most Rewarding Frequent Flier Programs
Today in Money & Finance - Friday, July 20 - Five Reasons to Sell, Car Bargains, Takeover Targets, Lavish Company Picnics
In the News:
Earnings:
Five Reasons to Sell, Sell, Sell
U.S. stocks are at record levels. Earnings season is under way, with many expecting a modest rise in corporate profits. Unemployment is very low. So far problems with housing haven't infected the rest of the economy, which seems poised to bounce back from slow growth in the first quarter. So what is there to worry about? Plenty. No matter how wonderful things look, the good times won't last forever. Even as most market observers remain bullish, we asked them what could derail this bull market. Stocks could keep setting records for months or even years, but it pays for investors to know what dangers are lurking out there. Here are the five biggest threats to the stock market rally.
U.S. stocks are at record levels. Earnings season is under way, with many expecting a modest rise in corporate profits. Unemployment is very low. So far problems with housing haven't infected the rest of the economy, which seems poised to bounce back from slow growth in the first quarter. So what is there to worry about? Plenty. No matter how wonderful things look, the good times won't last forever. Even as most market observers remain bullish, we asked them what could derail this bull market. Stocks could keep setting records for months or even years, but it pays for investors to know what dangers are lurking out there. Here are the five biggest threats to the stock market rally.
Slideshow: Signs the Bear Is About to Bite
Car Bargains Alert: Look for 2006 Leftovers
It's the time of year when car ads and commercials are filled with phrases like "year-end close-out'' and "model year blowout'' in an effort to get potential buyers excited about the "huge deals" on 2007 model cars and trucks because the 2008 models are soon to arrive. But if you think there are huge discounts on the outgoing 2007 models, think of how much you can save on one of the 10,000 2006 cars still littering dealer lots. http://aol1.bankrate.com/AOL/news/car-advice/20070707_driving_dollars_leftover_bargains_a1.asp
The Next Takeover Targets?
Summer, usually a tranquil time for deals, is hopping as private equity players race to go public before a Democratic sweep of all three branches could slam the window shut on deal makers. How much longer can takeover fever persist? And who's next in the crosshairs of those deep-pocketed private equity firms? Here are Forbes picks for ten ugly ducklings that private equity firms may love to own.
Summer, usually a tranquil time for deals, is hopping as private equity players race to go public before a Democratic sweep of all three branches could slam the window shut on deal makers. How much longer can takeover fever persist? And who's next in the crosshairs of those deep-pocketed private equity firms? Here are Forbes picks for ten ugly ducklings that private equity firms may love to own.
Company Picnics That Will Make You Jealous
Does your company's summer picnic consist of nothing more than hot dogs, hamburgers and a kiddie pool set up at the local campgrounds? Maybe it's time to consider alternative employment. Perhaps with Bloomberg. In June the company hosted its annual summer fete on New York City's Randall's Island, which it rented out for the day, setting up Bedouin tents and serving Middle Eastern dishes, barbecue and seafood. The corporation also provided employees and their families with an ice skating rink, petting zoo, poker and blackjack tables, and an iPod-mixing station. See more ultra-lavish corporate picnics.
Does your company's summer picnic consist of nothing more than hot dogs, hamburgers and a kiddie pool set up at the local campgrounds? Maybe it's time to consider alternative employment. Perhaps with Bloomberg. In June the company hosted its annual summer fete on New York City's Randall's Island, which it rented out for the day, setting up Bedouin tents and serving Middle Eastern dishes, barbecue and seafood. The corporation also provided employees and their families with an ice skating rink, petting zoo, poker and blackjack tables, and an iPod-mixing station. See more ultra-lavish corporate picnics.
Today in Money & Finance -- Thursday, Juy 19 -- Riskiest Housing Markets, Top Earning Models, Most Expensive Celebrity Photos
In the News:
Earnings:
The Most Expensive Celebrity Photos
In a media marketplace heavy on celebrity news, stories are interesting, but pictures reign supreme. Want proof? Just look at the price tags. The past few years have seen an explosive rise in the prices paid for exclusive celebrity photos. Driven by the public's desire for the nitty-gritty of celebrity life and celebrities' moves to control -- and profit from -- their images, the photos on Forbes' list are testament to a maturing market worth tens of millions.
Gallery: Most Expensive Celebrity Photos
Hybrid Honeymoon May Be Over
The percentage of car shoppers considering hybrid vehicles has declined in the past year, according to a survey released Tuesday by J.D. Power and Associates. Fifty percent of new vehicle shoppers surveyed said they are considering a gasoline/hybrid electric vehicle. That's down from 57 percent last year. Interest in hybrid vehicles declined the most among younger shoppers. Last year, 73 percent of car shoppers between ages 16 and 25 said they were interested in a hybrid vehicle. This year, 60 percent were. The reason may be may be a result of consumers more realistic understanding of the actual fuel economy capabilities.
World's Top Earning Models
In 1990, supermodel Linda Evangelista uttered what has become the most famous quote in modeling history: "We don't wake up for less than $10,000 a day." She was referring to herself and fellow supermodel Christy Turlington, both of whom were a core part of the handful of models shaking up the industry by being as famous and powerful as celebrities. And, of course, they made millions. Some still do. See who.
http://www.forbes.com/media/2007/07/19/models-media-bundchen-biz-media-cz_kb_0716topmodels.html
In 1990, supermodel Linda Evangelista uttered what has become the most famous quote in modeling history: "We don't wake up for less than $10,000 a day." She was referring to herself and fellow supermodel Christy Turlington, both of whom were a core part of the handful of models shaking up the industry by being as famous and powerful as celebrities. And, of course, they made millions. Some still do. See who.
http://www.forbes.com/media/2007/07/19/models-media-bundchen-biz-media-cz_kb_0716topmodels.html
Gallery: Top 15 Earning Models
Riskiest
Those looking to spin the real estate roulette wheel might want to steer clear of Miami. It ranks first on Forbes' list of the nation's riskiest real estate markets. Affairs are not much better farther north -- or west. Following in Miami's wake are Orlando, Sacramento and San Francisco. See Forbes' ranking of the country's riskiest markets measures which of the 40 largest metros are most vulnerable to future shocks.
Those looking to spin the real estate roulette wheel might want to steer clear of Miami. It ranks first on Forbes' list of the nation's riskiest real estate markets. Affairs are not much better farther north -- or west. Following in Miami's wake are Orlando, Sacramento and San Francisco. See Forbes' ranking of the country's riskiest markets measures which of the 40 largest metros are most vulnerable to future shocks.
Gallery: Riskiest US Housing Markets
The five laws of retail haggling
Many thrifty shoppers take pride in their ability to bargain with everyone from street vendors to car dealers and real estate brokers. But when it comes to retail shopping they never think to second guess the sticker price. That's a mistake, according to Consumer Reports, because you can put those same haggling skills to work at your local department store, electronics outlet and furniture store. Here are the five laws of retail negotiation.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/five-laws-retail-haggling/story.aspx?guid=%7BAA0EC5C3%2DD100%2D4BF3%2D98B3%2D5C0386DBE787%7D
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/five-laws-retail-haggling/story.aspx?guid=%7BAA0EC5C3%2DD100%2D4BF3%2D98B3%2D5C0386DBE787%7D
Mini size Me!
Bucking the trend of ever-expanding dining portions, Chicago-based Minnies only serves miniature portions, including Lilliputian burgers and shakes.
Today in Money & Finance - Wednesday, July 18 - Fastest Growing Suburbs, Killer Roads, Fall Vacation Rental Steals, Under-the-Radar Stocks
In the News:
America's Fastest Growing Suburbs
Los Angeles is sometimes called the "Sultan of Sprawl." But you wouldn't know it by looking at the country's fastest-growing suburbs. Not a single one falls in the L.A. metropolitan area. Instead, Angelinos are packing their bags and heading 60 miles east to San Bernardino, where twelve of the country's 100 fastest-growing suburbs are located. Leading the pack? Beaumont. It has experienced 130% growth since 2000. See which other suburbs are booming.
Los Angeles is sometimes called the "Sultan of Sprawl." But you wouldn't know it by looking at the country's fastest-growing suburbs. Not a single one falls in the L.A. metropolitan area. Instead, Angelinos are packing their bags and heading 60 miles east to San Bernardino, where twelve of the country's 100 fastest-growing suburbs are located. Leading the pack? Beaumont. It has experienced 130% growth since 2000. See which other suburbs are booming.
Storming Starbucks
Take a quick drive on a weekday morning through Needham, Mass., a typical suburban community outside Boston, and you'll see hordes of commuters queuing up for their morning joe. A Dunkin' Donuts that opened a few years ago along the main drag is the busiest spot, followed by a McDonald's that serves Paul Newman's organic coffee for free to early risers. The least busy spot? A Starbucks across from one of the town's four commuter rail stations. Why? McDonald's is making serious inroads in the coffee wars, while Dunkin' Donuts and Tim Hortons are rapidly expanding
http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/jul2007/db20070717_188896.htm?campaign_id=twxa
Take a quick drive on a weekday morning through Needham, Mass., a typical suburban community outside Boston, and you'll see hordes of commuters queuing up for their morning joe. A Dunkin' Donuts that opened a few years ago along the main drag is the busiest spot, followed by a McDonald's that serves Paul Newman's organic coffee for free to early risers. The least busy spot? A Starbucks across from one of the town's four commuter rail stations. Why? McDonald's is making serious inroads in the coffee wars, while Dunkin' Donuts and Tim Hortons are rapidly expanding
http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/jul2007/db20070717_188896.htm?campaign_id=twxa
Vacation Rental Deals? Think Off-Season
Back from summer vacation? Need another one? Beach and mountain vacation rentals are always more affordable in the fall season than in the peak summer or winter months. And this year, expect deals to become steals. A higher supply and the housing slump mean the already affordable fall season for vacation home rentals will be an even better bargain this year
http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/jul2007/db20070717_782427.htm?campaign_id=twxa
Back from summer vacation? Need another one? Beach and mountain vacation rentals are always more affordable in the fall season than in the peak summer or winter months. And this year, expect deals to become steals. A higher supply and the housing slump mean the already affordable fall season for vacation home rentals will be an even better bargain this year
http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/jul2007/db20070717_782427.htm?campaign_id=twxa
Gallery: Best Deals for Fall Vacation Rentals
Five Wine Bargains for Summer
Americans are drinking more wine than ever, much to the delight of grape growers everywhere. In fact, by 2010 Americans are expected to exceed the French by consuming some 3.25 gallons per year apiece on average. Here are five great budget-minded wine-and-meal ideas from one of Northern California's top wine consultants.
Americans are drinking more wine than ever, much to the delight of grape growers everywhere. In fact, by 2010 Americans are expected to exceed the French by consuming some 3.25 gallons per year apiece on average. Here are five great budget-minded wine-and-meal ideas from one of Northern California's top wine consultants.
$6 Gas?? One Nasty Hurricane Could Do It
One well-aimed Category 5 storm in the Gulf of Mexico -- certainly possible in the active season being forecast for this year -- could cripple oil and gasoline production, and the economy.
http://www.kiplinger.com/businessresource/recommend/archive/2007/Gas_AMBest.html
http://www.kiplinger.com/businessresource/recommend/archive/2007/Gas_AMBest.html
7 Under-the-Radar Stocks
Find real deals among companies with little Wall Street following.
http://www.kiplinger.com/magazine/archives/2007/08/underfollowed.html
http://www.kiplinger.com/magazine/archives/2007/08/underfollowed.html
Backyard Renovations
See what features the pros say are worth the money and get their tips on what you should -- and shouldn't -- do when renovating your yard. Check out these before and after shots to see how landscape architects and designers turned ordinary properties across the nation into paradises.
The 10 Best Business Classes in the Sky
Full-length beds, gourmet meals, in-flight movies, massages-today's business classes are more like flying spas but the best ones are transporting in every sense of the word.
http://images.businessweek.com/ss/07/07/0702_bizair/index_01.htm?campaign_id=aol
Full-length beds, gourmet meals, in-flight movies, massages-today's business classes are more like flying spas but the best ones are transporting in every sense of the word.
http://images.businessweek.com/ss/07/07/0702_bizair/index_01.htm?campaign_id=aol
America's Killer Roads
Some routes are more dangerous than others. Here are nine of the worst.
http://www.forbes.com/logistics/2007/07/12/roads-driving-highways-biz-logistics-cx_rm_0713deadlyroads.html
Slideshow: 's Killer Roads
Some routes are more dangerous than others. Here are nine of the worst.
http://www.forbes.com/logistics/2007/07/12/roads-driving-highways-biz-logistics-cx_rm_0713deadlyroads.html
Slideshow: 's Killer Roads
Today in Money & Finance - Tuesday, July 17 - Uninsured Study, Go Organic for Less, Bank Tellers Needed, Coolest Spots for Summer Vacation
In the News:
Earnings:
How to Fix the Uninsured Problem: Study Released
A 50% cut in health insurance premiums would only reduce the number of uninsured Americans by 3%, estimates a Rand study out Monday, which suggests that incentives and government tax cuts won't lead to universal coverage. Instead, a federal requirement that all people have insurance may be the only way to achieve such a goal, says study author Susan Marquis, an economist at Rand, a think tank.
Go Organic, For Less
Produced without pesticides and other chemicals, organic produce, meat and dairy products can cost 50% to 100% more than their conventional counterparts. Despite those mark-ups, studies touting the health and environmental benefits of organic foods have made them more popular than ever before. More than 70% of consumers have at least one organic product on their shopping list. Here are five tips for going organic for less. Buy Organic Without Breaking the Bank
Produced without pesticides and other chemicals, organic produce, meat and dairy products can cost 50% to 100% more than their conventional counterparts. Despite those mark-ups, studies touting the health and environmental benefits of organic foods have made them more popular than ever before. More than 70% of consumers have at least one organic product on their shopping list. Here are five tips for going organic for less. Buy Organic Without Breaking the Bank
Google Map Mashups a Help for Homebuyers
Since Google made its maps available for customization last year, savvy programmers have created thriving businesses by adding layers of information. Two examples: real estate site Zillow and Hotel World Map. But making these so-called map mashups has been beyond the reach of the average user. So in May, GeoCommons was launched, a cartographic portal where users can easily create their own mashups. The site has 2 billion pieces of localized data -- from census figures and school district budgets to water-contamination and traffic-congestion hot spots -- and it is rapidly adding more.
Expanding Banks Bemoan Lack of Tellers
Banks are having trouble finding qualified tellers as they expand their branch networks. The entry-level position now demands greater marketing abilities, sparking a labor crunch that has forced employers to boost wages and training.
Top Desktop Diversions 2007
Here's the latest installment of harmless Web sites that can give you a mini-vacation during the workday
http://www.businessweek.com/careers/?campaign_id=twxa
Here's the latest installment of harmless Web sites that can give you a mini-vacation during the workday
http://www.businessweek.com/careers/?campaign_id=twxa
The World's Coolest Spots for a Summer Vacation
Too darn hot? Forget the beach. From the North Pole to
Too darn hot? Forget the beach. From the North Pole to
Slideshow: The World's Coolest Vacation Spots
Today in Money & Finance - Monday, July 16 - Waitress Wins CNBC Contest, Coming of Clean Diesels & More
In the News:
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*Alert*
Money Magazine's Best Places to Live will be released around 9-10 am this morning.
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The New 'American Idol' of Stocks
The waitress did it: Mary Sue Williams collects the $1 million prize from CNBC's scandal-plagued stockpicking game. Williams, 46, was tapped by BusinessWeek last month as the likely champion in CNBC's million-dollar online stockpicking contest. Still, the July 13 knock on her front door by a CNBC reporter surprised the waitress from tiny St. Clairsville, Ohio, as she prepared to go to work at Undo's, an Italian restaurant overlooking Interstate 70 on the outskirts of town. Despite her newfound wealth, Williams says she took only one vacation day to celebrate. She'll be back at Undo's on Saturday night, waiting on the regulars. "I don't want to put the restaurant out," she says. See her plans for her newfound fortune.
You Are Where You Sit
See how to decode the psychology of the morning meeting. One expert has found that people fit into one of seven personality types based on where they sit around the conference table, which she explains using the nomenclature borrowed from Snow White's seven dwarves. Are you a 'Grumpy' or a 'Happy'? :)
The Coming of Clean Diesels
Get ready, America: Diesel cars and trucks are cleaner than ever, and they're coming to a dealership near you. http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/jul2007/bw20070713_699758.htm?chan=autos_special+report+--+high+tech+cars+2007_high+tech+cars+2007
Get ready, America: Diesel cars and trucks are cleaner than ever, and they're coming to a dealership near you. http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/jul2007/bw20070713_699758.htm?chan=autos_special+report+--+high+tech+cars+2007_high+tech+cars+2007
Senator Sanders proposes legislation to break up large banks
Closing Bell: Unemployment must not be relevant (GE, ACOM, FNM, ZIOP, MOT, NVDA)
Employee productivity up close to 10%
