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Economy

Economy
 
More consumers appear to be putting their tax returns into their bank accounts.
5/20/2013
Tax refunds being devoted to savings and debt this year
Nearly half of consumers say that what they get back from the government will go toward improving their finances.
 
Two-thirds of homeowners across the U.S. noted they intend to paint some area of their homes in the coming months.
5/17/2013
Homeowners looking to spruce up their living space with color
Recent polling data suggests that many think their homes could use a new hue.
 
A recall of cars manufactured by major Japanese automakers was ordered due to potential airbag safety issues.
5/15/2013
Airbag recall affects multiple automakers
Four vehicle manufacturers out of Japan recall millions of models.
 
Moms nationwide seem to want their kids and spouses to save instead of spend a lot on lavish gifts this Mother’s Day.
5/10/2013
Moms say they don't want lavish gifts for Mother's Day
One in every four mothers indicates they're more than OK with an inexpensive present.
 
Aspirations of homeownership are high among multiple demographics, including millennials.
5/6/2013
Homeownership intentions more robust
Renters say that they're as motivated as ever to purchase a home of their own.
 
The economy is still causing many employers to cease from hiring new workers.
5/3/2013
Hiring intentions put on hold for most employers due to rocky economy
Business owners say that they likely won't make any major recruiting efforts over the next several months.
 
Numerous Americans have noted they’ve made mistakes with their personal finances.
4/30/2013
Can I take that back?
Survey data says that approximately half of Americans have made financial moves that they'd reconsider the second time around.
 
Living green isn’t as easy as it sounds, a poll finds.
4/22/2013
Going green: Are you practicing what you preach?
Despite being aware of the importance of the environment, few are following through in their daily dealings.
 
With professional help, tax day doesn’t have to be a pain for those filing.
4/15/2013
Four ways to make Tax Deadline Day less worrisome
April 15 is one of the most stressful days of the year for Americans. Here's how to make it like any other day.
 
Kitchen remodels are one viable option for homeowners looking to boost their home’s value.
4/12/2013
Ten remodeling projects that elicit big returns
The National Association of Realtors details what refurbishing tasks are the most cost-effective for homeowners.
 
Failing to check out credit scores regularly could cause headaches for consumers.
2/12/2013
Few Americans bother checking their credit scores
Survey data suggests many people may not be maximizing their financial reputation by reviewing their credit profile.
 
Car buyers are being more selective, according to a report.
2/11/2013
Car buyers take more vehicles into consideration when shopping
J.D. Power and Associates says automotive shoppers are choosing from a larger pool of car possibilities.
 
Americans seem to be in favor of domestic green energy.
1/24/2013
Poll: Americans place a high priority on green energy
A recent survey indicates consumers don't want lawmakers to abandon renewable forms of energy in an effort to rely less on foreign oil. They're also largely opposed to fracking.
 
Many consumers foresee better personal finances in 2013.
1/9/2013
Poll: Most Americans say 2013 will be better for them financially than 2012
More than half of consumers believe their personal money situation will fare more positively in the new year.
 
Some younger people and couples may move back in with their parents.
11/13/2012
Many parents expect their adult children to return home
A PulteGroup survey shows that nearly one-third of parents anticipate their grown children will need to move in at some point.
 
Many small business owners have hesitations about the economy.
10/18/2012
Business owners hesitant about launching a company today
Many entrepreneurs feel that starting a business in today's economy would be a challenge they may ultimately pass on.
 
Young adults are not relying on their parents' finances.
10/11/2012
Young adults less reliant on Mom and Dad
A new poll says 69% of young adults in the U.S. receive little to no financial support from their parents.
 
Many business owners do not have a set retirement plan.
10/10/2012
Some business owners neglecting retirement preparation
A new survey indicates that four in 10 business owners have no retirement savings.
 
Used cars are maintaining value.
10/8/2012
Depreciation rates to moderate
NADA Used Car Guides says used vehicles should retain much of their value during the next decade.
 
Buying a home may be cheaper for some.
10/3/2012
Can't decide whether to buy or rent? The numbers say purchasing is the way to go
Trulia says buying is the cheaper alternative to renting in virtually all major metropolitan areas.
 
New government fuel-efficiency standards have now been finalized.
10/1/2012
Government fuel-efficiency standards finalized
Transportation authorities establish criteria to boost fuel efficiency considerably by 2025.
 
Haggling over prices is the least enjoyable part of car buying.
9/26/2012
Car buyers detail the worst (and best) parts about buying a car
Shoppers least enjoy negotiating over an affordable price with dealerships but most enjoy the researching part.
 
Most small business owners do not anticipate retiring.
8/31/2012
Nearly half of small business owners have no intention of retiring
A new survey indicates many entrepreneurs will stay on the job for the duration.
 
Many drivers are taking care of older vehicles.
8/16/2012
Car owners not letting go of their cars easily
More than three in four drivers say they will keep their present car for 10 years or more.
 
Workers compensation claims have fallen.
8/10/2012
Workers' compensation claims drop
Data from a new report suggests the recession may have factored into claims frequency in recent years.
 
Lost jewelry was the most common property insurance claim.
7/6/2012
Jewelry becomes top insured-loss category
A new study indicates that jewelry was the most claimed item in 2011.
 
There has been increased demand for renters.
7/2/2012
Rental housing demand surging
Calling it the housing industry's 'bright spot,' the rental market is performing quite well, according to a Harvard study.
 
Industrial executives are optimistic about the coming months.
6/26/2012
Industrial workers say good times are ahead
A recent survey indicates that industrial manufacturers are confident about their businesses' earning potential this year.
 
Most home projects are completed for aesthetic reasons.
6/14/2012
Renovations undertaken mainly to enhance curb appeal of homes
A new survey says homeowners are implementing renovations to improve the look of their home, not necessarily its value.
 
Green construction is becoming a larger part of the market.
6/11/2012
Homebuilders see surge in green building
Construction firms indicate customers are placing a priority on energy-efficient dwellings.
 
Many renters are looking to buy properties.
6/6/2012
Renters thinking more seriously about homeownership
Many renters are getting ready to buy their own place.
 
Used car prices are set to peak.
5/30/2012
Trade-in values set to peak
The National Automobile Dealers Association says spring is the optimal time to trade in a used vehicle.
 
Consumers should keep receipts needed for tax reasons.
5/17/2012
How property losses can affect taxes
The Insurance Information Institute indicates policyholders may qualify for a tax deduction if they were not fully reimbursed for their losses.
 
Executives say daily activities preclude innovation.
5/9/2012
Daily grind cited as obstacle to business innovation
CFOs say day-to-day responsibilities can make business growth hard to achieve.
 
Restaurants have added many new jobs.
5/7/2012
Restaurant industry adds half a million jobs in two years
National Restaurant Association indicates 560,000 jobs have been created since 2010.
 
 Green business practices may improve recruitment.
5/4/2012
Employers who go green may have leg up on competition
Survey performed by The Ladders suggests job seekers prefer companies that are eco-conscious.
 
Car buyers focus on practical matters over other concerns.
5/2/2012
Car buyers more swayed by practicality
A new study indicates how consumers are responding to auto manufacturers' marketing tactics.
 
Consumers should add up their expenses to see if they can afford to buy a home.
4/23/2012
How to determine whether homeownership is an affordable option
BMO Financial branch offers first-time homebuyers with some financial recommendations.
 
Keeping tires inflated can keep drivers away from the gas pump.
4/20/2012
Fuel economy tips to adhere to
Be earth aware by practicing regular automobile maintenance.
 
Fixing poor seals on windows can save energy.
4/19/2012
Reduce electric bills by performing an energy audit
Addressing air leaks and changing light bulbs can help keep energy costs down.
 
Emptying out the trunk can improve gas mileage.
4/16/2012
'Mobilize the Earth' by lightening the load on the highway
Removing excess weight can save motorists money and help protect the environment.
 
The Ford Fiesta was ranked as a very fuel-efficient vehicle.
4/3/2012
Website names 2012's most fuel-efficient cars
Total Car Score lists this year's vehicles that get the best mileage.
 
A Toyota minivan carried the lowest auto insurance rates.
3/23/2012
Minivan model has lowest average auto insurance rate
Insure.com survey indicates consumers can save money on coverage with the Toyota Sienna LE minivan.
 
Consumers are more pleased with the auto claims process.
3/14/2012
Policyholders largely content with claims process
Even though there were more claims in the fourth quarter, customer satisfaction levels stayed strong, according to J.D. Power and Associates.
 
Several Ford models earned customer loyalty awards.
3/5/2012
Ford wins several loyalty awards
Car buyers show a strong allegiance to Ford, according to Polk Automotive.
 
New technology is one reason consumers look for redesigned models.
2/29/2012
Technology, design among factors driving car shoppers toward all-new models
AutoTrader.com lists some of the characteristics of vehicles that garner car buyers' attention.
 
Some female small business owners anticipate a challenging year.
2/27/2012
Women small business owners believe tough times ahead
Approximately 75% of women anticipate their companies will suffer economically in 2012.
 
Used auto prices may rise.
2/17/2012
Used car prices on the rise
Kelley Blue Book predicts pre-owned vehicle values will increase as much as 5% in the first quarter of 2012.
 
The rental unit market is improving.
2/2/2012
Rental units in a state of recovery
New York-based real estate firm says that rental properties are one aspect of the housing sector that's in recovery mode, particularly in the East.
 
Business owners are more confident about 2012.
1/27/2012
Most business owners expressing confidence about 2012
Nearly two-thirds of small business owners believe 2012 will be a strong year for them.
 
Exterior projects create a larger return for homeowners.
1/23/2012
Exterior replacement projects offer most bang for buck
The National Association of Realtors says certain home improvement projects offer more value than others.
 
Car sales spiked in November.
12/22/2011
November huge month for car sales
IHS Global Insight says November was the best care sales month in 2011.
 
Business owners said their insurance agents were very trustworthy.
12/12/2011
Small business owners describe insurance agents as trustworthy
Nearly nine in 10 small business owners say trust is "very important" when choosing insurer.
 
Homeowners say diminished property values are a more significant threat than environmental hazards.
12/9/2011
Poll: Declining values homeowners' biggest concern
Homeowners say diminished property values are a more significant threat than environmental hazards.
 
Lawmakers continue to evaluate the NFIP.
12/1/2011
Flood insurance program given short-term extension
NFIP will continue to be funded by the federal government through December 16.
 
Younger car buyers were less loyal to a particular brand.
11/18/2011
Younger buyers' brand loyalty limited
Older car buyers are much more devoted to a particular make of vehicle.
 
Volkswagen sales have been strong.
11/16/2011
Volkswagen primed to become worldwide leader in car sales
Analysts believe Volkswagen's global sales will surpass 8 million in 2011.
 
Holiday spending is expected to increase.
10/24/2011
Holiday spending projected to rise
The National Federation predicts spending will increase 2.8% over last year.
 
Consumers may be able to get good deals on new vehicles in the fall.
10/11/2011
Consumers to take advantage of year-end sales events
Sixty-two percent of respondents say they'll buy a vehicle within the next three months.
 
The cost of renting is increasing.
10/5/2011
Cost of renting rising
Housing experts say consumers' attitudes are shifting from buying to renting.
 
Going easy on the brakes can improve drivers' mileage.
9/30/2011
Enhancing vehicles' mileage
Maintenance and driving behaviors influence cars' fuel efficiency.
 
Many people would like to start their own business.
9/22/2011
Poll: Nearly 80 percent would like to start own business
Harris Interactive survey indicates many workers are dissatisfied with their current job.
 
Hyundai has the best customer loyalty among carmakers.
8/15/2011
Hyundai rated number one in brand loyalty survey

 
Many small business owners are more optimistic about the economy.
8/9/2011
Small businessowners more optimistic about economy
Fewer small businesses believe the country is in a recession compared to last year.
 
Raleigh tops Forbes' list of business-friendly cities.
8/4/2011
Raleigh named as the best city for business operation
Raleigh, North Carolina, jumps from third to first in Forbes' Best Places for Business List.
 
House lawmakers have passed an extension of the National Flood Insurance Program.
8/1/2011
Funding for flood insurance program passed by House
National Flood Insurance Program was passed overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives.
 
The manufacturing industry has driven jobs growth.
7/28/2011
Manufacturing serves as a bright spot in struggling economy
The manufacturing sector has added more than 170,000 jobs in the past year.
 
Dealerships may soon cut prices on some fuel-efficient models.
7/27/2011
Prices for fuel-efficient vehicles have reached peak

 
Many business owners are turning to more efficient technologies.
7/19/2011
More businesses turning to energy-efficient technology to save
Survey finds businessowners are increasingly equipping their buildings with energy-efficient alternatives to traditional lighting and heating methods.
 
Most drivers are opposed to paying for emergency response costs.
7/8/2011
Survey says taxes should pay for accident response fees, not those involved
A poll found 68 percent disagree with charging people involved in a collision accident response fees.
 
Homeowners may be able to cut their insurance payments by shopping around.
7/5/2011
Checkbook.org names Selective as one of top homeowners insurance carriers
Checkbook.org’s CEO says people can save up to $500 on their homeowners insurance premiums by shopping around.
 
New cars will soon have clearer fuel economy numbers posted.
7/1/2011
New labeling system coming to vehicles
The Department of Transportation recently unveiled new fuel economy labels for new cars.
 
The recent flooding could increase good prices.
6/30/2011
Nationwide food costs may rise due to Mississippi River closures
Boats containing staple crops can't make their deliveries due to the flooding.
 
Few small business owners are going on vacation this summer.
6/29/2011
U.S.: 'No-vacation nation'?
A national news network says Americans don't take vacations as frequently as other countries.
 
One South Carolina bill would have capped gas prices as of June 1.
6/23/2011
South Carolina lawmaker wants to cap gas prices
The bill would have prevented gas prices from going any higher starting on June 1.
 
It may be more affordable to buy a home, rather than rent, in many cities nationwide.
6/17/2011
Study: More affordable to buy than to rent
Trulia says it's a more financially-sound move to buy a home than to rent an apartment in 80 percent of U.S. markets.
 
Many hybrid owners may face higher insurance costs.
6/16/2011
Do hybrid cars cost more to insure?
An insurance expert says fuel-efficient vehicles cost more because they tend to be on the road for longer periods compared to gasoline cars.
 
Cruise control is one option most drivers expect.
5/31/2011
Increase your used car’s value
Cars.com lists the options that are most likely to increase - and decrease - a vehicle's value.
 
Rising gas prices have dented small business owners' budgets.
5/24/2011
Gas tops $4 per gallon in eight states
Many states now average $4 per gallon of gas.
 
Analysts say now may be the best time to buy.
5/18/2011
Car analysts say buy now, not later
Auto industry analysts say the price of cars will increase in the coming months.
 
Mortgage companies have made it tougher to buy a home.
5/17/2011
Spring real estate sales struggle
Industry analysts say home sales are slow because of tighter lending practices, but others say the restrictions will ultimately be a good thing.
 
Despite the economic issues, Americans still view homeownership positively.
5/13/2011
Pew poll finds Americans still value homeownership
Eighty-one percent of Americans say buying a home is the best long-term investment.
 
The Ford Focus landed on Kelley Blue Book’s list of most fuel-efficient vehicles.
5/12/2011
2011's most fuel-efficient vehicles
Kelley Blue Book releases its 'Top Green Cars of 2011.'
 
Most homeowners are opposed to the idea of walking away from their loan.
5/10/2011
Most oppose walking away from a mortgage
Sixty percent of respondents say it's 'never OK' to walk away.
 
The Pruis has sold well and received favorable grades in safety tests.
5/3/2011
Toyota: One million Priuses sold in the U.S.
Toyota continues its reign as a leading hybrid vehicle manufacturer.
 
Many drivers are choosing to cut their optional coverage.
4/27/2011
Survey: More people shedding optional auto insurance coverage policies due to economy
Approximately 63 percent of older cars dropped collision, comprehensive.
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