Checking Accounts

Checking accounts

Checking accounts are meant for transactions, not savings. That's why many don't pay much, if any, interest. However, these days combine the conveniences of checking with the return of a money market account. Also, as "asset management" accounts at brokerages become more popular, offering unlimited check writing, ATM access, and money market rates -- more folks are by-passing the banks in favor of brokers. A word of caution here, be sure that you understand your brokers fee schedule before you sign the agreement.

Economic Impact of a Democratic Win in November

There are mixed opinions on whether Barack Obama will be good for economic relations with China. Studies show that a lot is at stake for foreign markets in the coming November election. The effect could be magnified by a win by the Democrats. Experts find this a difficult situation to analyze. Many agree that a change in economic policy direction would be a positive.

A win by the Democrats would yield a favorable climate for negotiation, dialogue and trade opportunities. But whoever wins the White House has to recognize that the times are changing and that emerging markets such as China and India -- where issues over currency, outsourcing and product safety, to name a few, have found voice on the campaign trail -- represent new powerhouses.