Alternatives for higher investment income
I have often written that even conservative investors can’t afford to restrict their investments to low-paying alternatives such as certificates of deposit, money-market accounts and Treasury bills.Even in retirement, I believe a diversified portfolio that includes a significant investment in some form of common stocks and bonds is best. (Although I have been retired for about 20... READ MORE
Has the time come for small-cap stocks?
A single dollar invested in a basket of large-capitalization stocks in 1926 and held, with dividends and capital gains reinvested, until the present would have grown to $511,502 by the end of February 2016.But even more dramatic is what would have happened had the dollar been invested in a basket of small-cap stocks. It would have grown to $2,490,588.Over the past 90 years, the typical... READ MORE
On a job search? How to market yourself
Our new career columnist Judy Smith, R.C.C. (a registered corporate coach), will answer reader questions on all aspects of employment searches, ranging from resume writing, to interviewing, to online job search and more. Q: I know job hunting has met with a number of changes over the years. As someone who is over 50, how do I go about getting a job in today’s marketplace? A:... READ MORE
Nine financial perks for older consumers
If you’re age 50 or older, be prepared to start getting carded again. Many discounts, tax breaks and other perks for seniors start earlier than you think.Here are nine ways that getting older can help you keep a little more cash in your wallet.1. Lower car insurance rates. Years of experience behind the wheel are a plus: Allstate cuts rates up to 10 percent for most drivers 55 and... READ MORE
Tax-free muni bonds: not sexy, but steady
The municipal-bond market looks to be regaining its reputation for delivering reliable if unsexy returns, following several big swings since the financial crisis.It’s remained sturdy in recent months, even as stocks and other types of bonds have jerked up and down. That has investors, mostly high income earners, once again pouring in dollars in search of safety.Municipal bonds are... READ MORE
Credit inquiries affect your credit score
Note: Last month’s story, “Banks are giving out free credit scores,” discussed the importance of knowing this vital information. This month, we describe how credit inquiries by you and others can affect your score.Have you noticed inquiries on your credit report? Not sure what they mean?So-called “soft” and “hard” inquiries are the result of... READ MORE
Some interesting encore gigs for retirees
Maybe you’ve always fantasized about racing down the sidelines as a soccer ref, or expounding to tourists on the charms of your city. Once you retire from your career job, you’ll have time to make that fantasy happen, but you’ll have to get up to speed on the skills involved.Here’s a rundown of the basic requirements for six dream retirement gigs.English-language... READ MORE
Banks are giving out free credit scores
It might be the most important piece of financial information about you — and it’s finally easier for you to actually get a look at it.Big banks and credit card companies are increasingly offering customers free access to their FICO score. This score — named after Fair Isaac Corp., the software and analytics company that developed it — is used by lenders to determine ... READ MORE
How to buy low: some recommendations
Shoppers love bargains, except when it comes to stocks. When a stock’s price falls sharply, few investors react with giddiness at the prospect of getting something for less. More likely — especially if they already own the stock — they respond with anxiety or cold fear. Rather than buy the stock, they’re more apt to sell it.Certainly there are valid reasons for... READ MORE
Yes, you can negotiate at grocery stores
The idea of negotiating a lower price at the grocery store is often something shoppers shy away from. Whether it’s the fear of rejection or embarrassment, negotiating is rarely used as a way to save money.Well, I’m here to tell you that if you know what grocery items to look for, and have the proper negotiating strategy in place, it can be successfully done.Here are some items... READ MORE
Money 2024
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