Monthly Archives: December 2009

The Numbers Don’t Lie, But What Do They Mean?

LISTEN: mp3 audio (12:12 min) In order to fully appreciate the impact of computers, you have to remember what life was like before them. In short, you have to be older than 60 – and remember a world where most … Continue reading

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Phishers Send Phony IRS Messages

LISTEN: mp3 audio (3:46 min) The surge in electronic communication, including financial transactions, has spurred an identity theft activity known as “phishing,” where criminals use bogus e-mail messages and phony websites to trick unsuspecting individuals into providing confidential financial information. … Continue reading

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5-MINUTE FINANCIAL THOUGHT: Work & Retirement

LISTEN: mp3 audio (1:09 min) Here’s a common paradigm for work & retirement: 1.    You work to produce an income. 2.    You save some of that income and accumulate a pile of money. 3.    When the pile is big enough, … Continue reading

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Online Financial Management: Technical Assistance Recommended

LISTEN: mp3 audio (6:08 min) In a very short time electronic communication, specifically the Internet, has effected a sea change in the way people conduct their basic financial transactions. Beginning with direct deposit and automatic withdrawals, then progressing to account … Continue reading

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529 Plan Participation Declines

LISTEN: mp3 audio (3:14min) A November 11, 2009 article in the Wall Street Journal titled “529 Plans – More Parents Are Becoming Dropouts” notes diminished participation in what “have been pitched as the ultimate college savings vehicle.” In brief, 529 … Continue reading

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