Finance Globe

While some of you may be familiar with what a bond rating is, many of you may also be unfamiliar and do not understand the bond rating process. Below is a high level overview of what a bond rating is, and feel free to ask any follow up questions in the comments section below.A bond rating is a rating that an independent or unbiased agency issues to measure the credit quality of a particular bond (which...

It's normal for retailers to pitch credit cards to shoppers during checkout. The pitch usually comes with an incentive - like a discount on the initial purchase. More retailers are offering a new payment option for consumers: point-of-sale loans. Customers are offered the loans both in-store and online at checkout.Point-of-sale loans are often offered for big ticket items. With the ease of lending, the loans are also offered for online purchases regardless of price. The loan...

When buying a home, a variety of financial questions and concerns will move to the forefront. While there are many numbers to keep in mind, 20 percent will come up time after time. This is the magic number when it comes to a minimum down payment.Basic math shows you that this is equivalent to $20,000 down for every $100,000 worth of home. So, if you’re buying a property for $200,000, a $40,000 down payment is what...

If you wear contact lenses, you’re familiar with the expense of buying replacements every three, six, or twelve months. Even if you’ve made it part of your budget, it doesn’t make it any less painful when you have to part with the money.Fortunately, there are many ways to save on the purchase of contact lenses, with buying online one of your best options.If you’re interested in giving this a try, here are a few steps to...

The information in your credit report has a major impact on whether your new applications for credit cards and loans are approved. Having positive information is key to showing that you're a responsible borrower. Your credit report can only contain accurate, complete, and timely information and you're allowed to challenge any information that doesn't fit the criteria for reporting.If you spot errors on your credit report, you can have your credit report updated by making a...

On the surface, a credit union appears similar to a traditional local bank. However, as you dig deeper, you’ll find that there are many features and benefits provided by a credit union that a bank simply couldn’t match.Above all else, credit unions are designed to help its members succeed financially. This should give you peace of mind, as you never have to concern yourself with your financial institution taking advantage of you.In regards to membership, most...

While there is nothing more exciting than shopping for a home, your good time can turn sour if you’re unable to secure a mortgage for your purchase.If your mortgage application is denied, there are a few key steps you must take:•    Find out why: This is your top priority, as you can’t make things right until you find out what went wrong. The lender is supposed to provide the reason or reasons for your denial, so...

Does your car need new tires? How about a brake job? Is the check engine light on?From regular maintenance to emergency service, there are times when you require the assistance of a mechanic. Unfortunately, this is an expense you don’t typically want to take on.Rather than call your local dealer’s service department, you may be able to save money by visiting an independent mechanic. Here are three reasons why:•    You can negotiate: Good luck negotiating a...

It’s a common myth that your credit score can keep you from getting a job or promotion. While your current or a prospective employer may check your credit, they’re not checking your credit score. In fact, a credit score may not even be useful to an employer because it doesn’t provide the information they need to make a decision about you. An employer wants to see your credit information, so they receive a modified version of your...

Summer is the time to make memories with your family and kids. However you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Below are a few great and fun ideas that are not too expensive.Library: Public libraries are free and educational. During the summer they have sing-alongs, arts, and crafts. Check with your local library for their list of activitiesBeaches: Most beaches are free, and have endless activities. Bring games, a book, and plenty of...