Financial Issues Are at the Forefront of American News

[Susan M. Young, CPA]

Let's start a forum to discuss our business questions for today's economy. For instance, investment bankers are different from the regular "banker" at your local bank. Do you know why? Well, becasue investment bankers are employed to find investors for financial proposals that are too risky or not appropriate for the traditional (FDIC and SEC regulated) financial markets.

[Cyndi Brown]

Susan,

Thank you! Does anyone know of a good annuity with a fixed rate? Regions Bank has one for 6 years for 6.25 guaranteed?
Banks do not charge a fee and you do not pay taxes on it unless you take it out before the 6 years. You can take out 10% a year without a penality. I think at this time any new investments for me will be at a fixed rate!

[Susan M. Young, CPA]

I would, at this time, be very careful about chasing rates. The most important issue is the safety of the institution - i.e. where is Regions investing your money? Even many insurance companies are not safe right now. SMY

Cyndi Brown said:

Susan,

Thank you! Does anyone know of a good annuity with a fixed rate? Regions Bank has one for 6 years for 6.25 guaranteed?
Banks do not charge a fee and you do not pay taxes on it unless you take it out before the 6 years. You can take out 10% a year without a penality. I think at this time any new investments for me will be at a fixed rate!

[Dick Slackman: tenby tech]

The This American Life radio program yesterday had an excellent explanation of the financial issues associated with the current economic problems. The program explained the issues in terms easily understood by a layman.

The show is available via podcast at this address. http://podcast.thisamericanlife.org/podcast/365.mp3