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The Color of Money

By Michelle Singletary

American Taxpayers Being Played For Chumps

Is corporate American taking advantage of the Treasury Department's bailout money? And does Treasury have a clue about what to do?

New Housing Reg Hardly A 'Mammoth Leap Forward'

The Department of Housing and Urban Development is overhauling the good-faith estimate used by mortgage lenders, but much more is needed.

Reduce Restrictions On Unemployment Benefits

As the government tries to prop up the economy, we need an extension of unemployment benefits and to provide benefits to more people.

Despite Historic Election, Minorities Face Economic Struggles

From income to unemployment to health care to homeownership, Hispanics and African-Americans lag significantly behind whites.

New President Faces World Of Tighter Credit

The end to easy money is necessary for individual households even if it's not good for the next president or the economy.

A Helpful Book To Have During A Recession

Some occupations and industries can withstand business downturns better than others. But which ones?

Blacks, Hispanics Aren't Building Enough Wealth

Despite the wobbly markets, minorities shouldn't pull back from investing and erode the gains they've made in retirement plan participation.

Looming Social Security Crisis Can't Be Ignored

Any changes to shore up Social Security must ensure that retirement savings are secure and guaranteed to keep people from abject poverty.

Expect More Health Care Price Hikes Next Year

Although people are worried about their finances, many workers spend little or no time reviewing their health benefits options during open enrollment.

New Government Home Lending Program Drives A Hard Bargain

Read the paperwork carefully in the government's new HOPE for Homeowners program, because you'll be stuck with a costly deal.

The Problem Is The Subprime Loans, Not The Federal Loan Programs

The GI Bill made homeownership a reality for many veterans who could not otherwise afford a home, showing that federal mortgage programs can work.

Who's To Blame For The Economic Crisis, And Who's Not?

Some of the blame for America's economic earthquake is focused on the Community Reinvestment Act. Michelle Singletary says that's unfair.

Just How Safe Is Your Money, Really?

People are naturally concerned about their investment portfolios, but increasingly they're worried about the safety of their cash.

Railing Against Rampant Wall Street Greed

Michelle Singletary spotlights a prophetic book that looks at thieves, fakers and charlatans who steal your investment dollars.

You Can Get Through This Bumpy Ride

People with a plan can make it through the economic rollercoaster ride, says Michelle Singletary. People without a plan may face tough times.

These Couples Took Responsibility For Their Money Messes

The couples in this year's Color of Money Military Challenge represent many Americans who saved too little and used credit too much.

Bailout Bill Needs Help For Homeowners

Congress needs to listen to the organizations that knew long ago what was wrong with the way mortgages were being made.

The Crisis In A Nutshell: Too Much Debt, Too Little Cash

The financial crisis began when just about everybody and their mama forgot one basic principle of money management: Diversify.

In The Face Of Wall Street Worries, Don't Fall For Scams

In this economy, you'll hear a lot of advice about what you should do with your money. But first, consider the source and motives of the advisors.

Bargain Hunting For Fannie, Freddie Shares A Fool's Game

If a company enters bankruptcy protection or conservatorship, as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have, your shares may become worthless.

 
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