Poorer Than You Think: Money and Wealth in America

"Rich Americans", that's our global reputation. We share that world view and never seem to wonder how are we really doing.  When you look at money and wealth around the world, Americans are poorer than we think.

One of the most useful calculations a person can make when it comes to their personal finances is to figure out their net worth. Simply put, net worth is the value of your assets (what you own) vs. your liabilities (debts). The average net worth of Americans is $301,000 per adult. Our country ranks number 4 in net worth behind Switzerland (#1), Australia (#2), and Norway (#3). Sweden, France, Singapore, Denmark, Canada and United Kingdom fill our the rest of the top ten respectively.

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FICO Score Changes Mean Higher Scores and Lower Interest Rates For Consumers

FICO credit-scoring system is being revised to reduce the negative effect of overdue medical bills and to quit penalizing consumers who pay off debts that had been assigned to collection agencies. The changes to the hugely influential FICO scoring system could make it easier for millions of Americans to get loans at lower rates and eventually save consumers billions of dollars.

For consumers whose only major delinquency is an unpaid medical bill, the changes would increase a credit score by 25 points, according to Fair Isaacs Corp., whose FICO credit ratings are the basis for scores published by the three big credit-rating agencies.

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Can Partisan Politics and Political Polarization Affect Your Life? The Answer May Surprise You.

It’s no secret that “Republicans and Democrats are more divided along ideological lines – and partisan aversion is deeper and more extensive – than at any point in the last two decades.” A recent Pew Research Center survey of 10,000 adults nationwide finds that these divisions are greatest among those who are the most engaged and active in the political process. Would you be surprised to learn that these trends manifest themselves in a variety of ways, both in politics and in our everyday lives.

 

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Most Respected Players in NFL

Just like Hollywood entertainers, sports stars come and go, leaving their mark behind them. That outstanding play that won the game, a record-breaking season, a devastating team trauma-all these things give fans pause to remember the great ones. But, it has to be a special tribute when you receive the respect of your peers. A recent ESPN survey of 320 NFL players identified the most respected players in the league. These are the players who consistently play well on the field, but also treat other players and officials with respect. The confidential poll takes into account athletic ability, but also factor in actions on and off the field.

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African-Americans Retiring Early With Lower Savings

  The new retirement age is getting younger for many Americans who can least afford to retire.

A new study released Tuesday by Prudential finds African-Americans retire earlier than the general population on average, despite significantly lower retirement savings.

About 25 percent of African-Americans surveyed expect to retire before age 60, compared to 20 percent of the general population. Among current retirees, the average retirement age for African-Americans is 56, according to the study, three years younger than the general population.

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The Woman Behind the Man: TV Talk Show Host Spouses

A wide TV viewership knows the most popular TV talk show host better than they know some members of their own family. Many embrace a faithful relationship with these media stars who share their lives through their television shows. Over the years, they often mention their spouse and even include references to the children, but the details are sketchy. Have you ever wondered about "the significant other" in their lives? Let's peep through the window and learn a bit about the spouses of five famous Talk Show hosts.

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