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STUDY: HALF OF AMERICANS FEEL ‘FINANCIALLY ADRIFT’ DUE TO UNCERTAIN ECONOMIC CLIMATE – A pervasive feeling of uncertainty about the economy is “significantly impacting” people’s perception of financial well-being, leaving many feeling “stuck despite their best efforts.
FEDS RESTART COLLECTION ON DEFAULTED STUDENT LOANS – After a pause of more than five years, the federal government resumes collecting on defaulted student loans. Here are the options for borrowers in default or close to it.
Consumerpedia, Episode 85: HOW WE’RE ENCOURAGED TO BUY, BUY, BUY – In this episode, author Emily Mester shares personal stories from her new book American Bulk: Essays on Excess about her father’s obsession with shopping and her own tendency to overbuy.
MY TWO CENTS: WHY THE MARKETPLACE NEEDS RULES – I almost never share my personal opinions about politics, but I’m concerned that a “Wild West” marketplace will result from weakening federal regulations and regulators.
CONGRESS KILLS RULE THAT WOULD HAVE CAPPED BANKING OVERDRAFT FEES AT $5 – In a major win for the banking industry, Congress has overturned a Consumer Financial Protection (CFPB) rule that would have limited overdraft fees to $5 at the nation’s largest banks and credit unions.
FEDERAL JUDGE REMOVES $8 CAP ON CREDIT CARD LATE FEES – A federal court judge in Texas scrapped a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) rule that would have limited “excessive” credit card late fees to $8.
Consumerpedia, Episode 84: FREE PERKS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU HAD – The staff at Checkbook sifted through member benefits for credit cards, warehouse clubs, health plans, and AAA. We discovered dozens of money-saving perks that are often overlooked.
Cosumerpedia, Episode 83: TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW OR USED VEHICLE – Consumer Reports shares its 10 Top Picks for 2025 and the latest reliability ratings. Also, the latest on EVs, and why used cars are going to cost more this year.
WHY PRICES FOR USED VEHICLES ARE EXPECTED TO INCREASE IN 2025 – Buying a late-model used car or truck will become even more challenging as prices rise due to declining supply and higher demand.
DON’T FALL FOR BOGUS ‘UNPAID TOLL’ TEXT MESSAGES – If you receive a text message requesting payment for outstanding toll charges, assume it’s a scam. The volume of these fake messages has surged recently.