Archive for November, 2007

Unsure About Socially Responsible Investing (SRI)

I read this question in a recent issue of the Yoga Journal magazine:
“I don’t want to support tobacco companies or environmental polluters, but my broker claims that socially responsible investing will cost me. How can I persuade my broker to make investments that align with my values?”

The official answer from the magazine pointed out how [...]

What Did the Appraisers Do Wrong?

Early in November, the New York state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo accused home appraisal company eAppraiseIt of yielding to pressures from lenders like Washington Mutual and appraising the home values too high. According to the news report, Mr. Cuomo said
“consumers are harmed because they are misled as to the value of their homes, increasing [...]

Bought Nothing on Black Friday

The day after Thanksgiving is also known as the Black Friday. Stores open extra early and offer special sale. However I bought nothing on this day. I unknowingly participated in the Buy Nothing Day not because I’m boycotting anything, I just didn’t feel the need to buy anything. I don’t get the concept of “saving” money by spending money [...]

Take the Bait On No Interest Financing?

No interest, no payments for 12 months! That’s a typical financing offer by furniture and electronics stores. I noticed recently some airlines started offering the same type of financing. For example United Airlines has a United Travel Card which offers no interest or payments for 90 days on qualifying purchases. American Airlines’ credit card offers 6 months no payments, no interest on purchases from [...]