Are Consumers Holding the Keys to a Better Economy?
Consumer spending still accounts for about 70% of gross domestic product, but some government statistics suggest that consumers may have reduced spending drastically in recent years, especially on discretionary items. High unemployment, household debt, and a general lack of confidence can affect consumers' ability and willingness to spend.
Settling on a Salary
As a company's profit situation improves, business owners may be in a position to decide whether to take home a larger salary or use more of the proceeds to invest for the future. This article discusses the possibility of choosing a business-owner salary that allows for other benefits, such as building the business, saving more for retirement, and adding employee benefits.
Bring Your Life Insurance Home From Work
Only 44% of American households have individual life insurance, a 50-year low. Many workers have life insurance as an employee benefit, however relying on a group policy could mean that coverage ends should a worker's job situation change. This article examines the benefits of term individual insurance and permanent life insurance.
HOT TOPIC: Breaking Down the Debt-Ceiling Compromise
The Budget Control Act of 2011 raised the federal debt ceiling, mandated modest but significant caps on discretionary spending over the next ten years, and left the details of larger deficit reduction to a 12 member, bipartisan “super committee.” The main provisions of the law include the assumption that higher tax rates will return in 2013.
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