All Economy
- Fed independence at risk ... from GOP?Beyond focus on Bernanke's next moves, Jackson Hole meeting reveals mounting concern about political meddling with the Federal Reserve, especially if some radical Republicans are reelected.
- Gas prices highest ever for a Labor DayGas prices averaged $3.83 a gallon Friday, easily beating the 2008 record of $3.68. Hurricane Isaac is party to blame for high gas prices.
- Carpool from your phone: Ride-sharing apps take offMore and more Americans are opting to leave the driving to others 鈥 and taking advantage of the growing number of ride-sharing apps available today. Here are four of the most popular.
- This Labor Day, inequality aboundsThe most troubling trend facing America this Labor Day weekend is the increasing concentration of income, wealth, and political power at the very top.
- In Japan, better with ageA Japanese metal molding company values and cultivates an older workforce.
- How BMW reinvents the factory for older workersThe German car maker has adapted sections of its factories so it's easier for older employees to do their work.
- Cover StoryThe silver-collar economyMore companies are hiring people 65 and older because they believe they are reliable and productive, while the seniors themselves need 鈥 and want 鈥 to work. But is the trend squeezing out young people?
- You better shop around. For a mortgage.So many potential home buyers don't compare prices for their mortgage, and it's a huge mistake.
- Skip the groomer. 3 pricey pet services to do yourself.We spend an average $875 per year on our pets, according to the ASPCA. Cut your costs by taking charge in grooming, training, and basic maintenance.
- Which cities are the most electric car-friendly?San Francisco, predictably, is near the top of the list of cities with the most electric car-charging stations. But it couldn't beat out聽 winner Portland, Ore. and a surprising chart-topper from Texas.
- Don't overspend on home maintenance equipmentIf you're moving into your first home out of an apartment, chances are you don't have basic home maintenance equipment like lawn mowers, ladders, and caulking guns. Craigslist, yard sales, and borrowing from friends are good ways to avoid overspending on these items.
- Where was tax reform at the GOP convention?In last night鈥檚 acceptance speech, Mitt Romney sketched out his personal biography and delivered an effective brief on why we shouldn鈥檛 reelect President Obama. But, oddly, when it came to taxes he was nearly silent.
- Can Ben Bernanke buoy the economy and fend off Fed critics, too?Fed chairman Ben Bernanke spoke Friday about tough policy choices. But he's also fighting to defend his institution against critics. Mitt Romney talks of replacing him, while others push possible reform legislation.
- Deficits fall in southern Europe. Progress?Any deficit is a bad deficit, but Italy, Portugal, and Greece are taking bug strides in reducing their national debts.
- Consumer sentiment improves for AugustThe consumer sentiment index ticked up to 74.3聽 in August, with inflation expectations rising to 3.6 percent.
- Merkel stands increasingly alone in opposing Greek eurozone exitGermany's Chancellor Merkel is sticking to her position that Greece must stay 鈥 and that its exit could have unforeseen negative consequences. But the ranks of those who disagree are growing.
- 12 rules to invest and enjoyLearning to invest shouldn't be a chore. Here's how to make money and have a good time doing it.
- Redefining the richRomney's economic adviser refutes findings on his tax plan by broadening the definition of 'rich.' But it doesn't quite add up.
- US stock futures up ahead of Bernanke speechStock market anticipates Bernanke will signal that the Federal Reserve is considering more monetary easing. Much anticipated Bernanke speech takes place at 10 a.m. ET.
- Fuel-efficient cars for every budgetFrom a budget two-door compact to a high-end sports car, these six vehicles make good gas mileage fun.