By any measure, Chinese users appeared to be the force behind fluctuations in the global Bitcoin market in 2013, contributing to the market’s miraculous peak and recent downturn. First, it is clear that, throughout 2013, there was a high correlation between renminbi’s (RMB) “share of volume of all Bitcoin exchanges and price of Bitcoin”. This […]
Part 2 of Secure Online Banking. When it comes to online banking, there is no way to absolutely guarantee your safety. However, good practices do exist that can reduce the risks posed to your online accounts. The following sections describe these practices. #1 Review your bank’s information about its online privacy policies and practices. By […]
The FDIC protects depositors from failing banks. Most FDIC-insured institutions are well-capitalized and well-managed, so it’s unlikely that you will have deposits in a bank that fails. But it’s common for people to ask, What should I know and do if I hear that my bank has been closed? We hope the following will answer […]
Part 3 of China’s “Hot Money” Problems. While there may be some uncertainty about the precise amount of “hot money” flowing into China, there appears to be a general agreement as to why speculators are moving their capital into China. Analysts point to two key factors: (1) the relative interest rates in China and the […]
Part 2 of China’s “Hot Money” Problems. Because “hot money” flows quickly and is poorly monitored, there is no well-defined, direct method for estimating the amount of “hot money” flowing into a country during a period of time. In addition, once an estimate is made, the amount of “hot money” may suddenly rise or fall, […]
Part 1 of China’s “Hot Money” Problems. China has experienced a sharp rise in the inflow of so-called “hot money,” foreign capital entering the country supposedly seeking short-term profits, especially in 2008. Chinese estimates of the amount of “hot money” in China vary from $500 billion to $1.75 trillion. The influx of “hot money” is […]
Part 4 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. Debt settlement differs greatly from credit counseling and Debt Management Plans. It can be very risky, and have a long term negative impact on your credit report and, in turn, your ability to get credit. That’s why the FTC and many states have laws or rules […]
Part 3 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. If your financial problems stem from too much debt or your inability to repay your debts, a credit counseling agency may recommend that you enroll in a debt management plan. A Debt Management Plan alone is not credit counseling, and Debt Management Plans are not for […]
Part 2 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. Reputable credit counseling organizations advise you on managing your money and debts, help you develop a budget, and usually offer free educational materials and workshops. Their counselors are certified and trained in the areas of consumer credit, money and debt management, and budgeting. Counselors discuss your […]
Part 1 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. Living paycheck to paycheck? Worried about debt collectors? Can’t seem to develop a workable budget, let alone save money for retirement? If this sounds familiar, you may want to consider the services of a credit counselor. Many credit counseling organizations are nonprofit and work with you […]
Part 1 of Arizona Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Solar Electric System. Are you thinking about buying a PV system for your home or business? If so, this series will provide basic information that you need to know. Consumer’s in Arizona are showing increased interest in solar electric systems for their homes and businesses. These […]
Advertisements for some day trading systems or advisory services make investing look like a virtual bonanza where everyone’s a winner. But if one thing’s certain about stocks, commodity futures, options and similar investments, it’s that they’re uncertain. Any company that guarantees huge earnings is feeding you a load of “bull.” Day traders spend their time […]
1. Don’t give your account number and bank routing information to anyone you don’t know. Give out your account information for transactions only if you are familiar with the company you are dealing with. And if you have not done business with a company before, give out account information only if you have initiated the […]
The surveys indicate that Americans are concerned about the environment, global warming, and related topics. Yet many do not realize that cars and trucks that guides are an important source of these problems, and that there are other choices they can do today. Most of us drive or ride vehicles that are powered by petroleum-based […]
Part 8 of Air-Source Heat Pumps. The following are sources of additional information on heat pumps. This list is not exhaustive, nor does the mention of any resource constitute a recommendation or endorsement. Ask an Energy Expert DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse (EREC) P.O. Box 3048 Merrifield, VA 22116 1-800-DOE-EREC (363-3732) Online submittal form. Energy […]
Part 1 of Energy-Efficient Water Heating. The next time you pay your utility bill, try one simple calculation. Divide the total amount by seven. The result is the amount you spend to heat your water. (If you receive separate utility bills for gas and electricity, use the gas bill for this calculation if you have […]
Part 12 of Get Your Power from the Sun. If you live where a homeowners association must approve a solar electric system, you or your photovoltaic provider may need to submit your plans. You’ll need approval before you begin installing your photovoltaic system. However, some state laws stipulate that you have the right to install […]
Part 7 of Elements of an Energy-Efficient House. Before you start a home-building project, the building site and its climate should be carefully evaluated to determine the optimum design and orientation for the house. There are energy-related computer software programs that can help with these evaluations. The design should accommodate appropriate insulation levels, moisture dynamics, […]
Part 1 of Conserve Energy and Heat Your Swimming Pool with Solar Energy. Swimming pools provide a great way to exercise and beat the summer heat. Building and maintaining a pool, however, also means relatively high costs added to your household’s budget. There are several ways that you can reduce operating and maintenance costs, lower […]
Part 5 of Ways to Save Money on Energy at Home. Hot Water Usage (based on national averages) Shower: 37% Clothes washer: 26% Dishwasher: 14% Bath: 12% Sinks: 11% Water heating is the third largest energy expense in your home. It typically accounts for about 14% of your utility bill. There are four ways to cut […]
Part 3 of Ways to Save Money on Energy at Home. Checking your home’s insulating system is one of the fastest and most cost-efficient ways to use a whole-house approach to reduce energy waste and maximize your energy dollars. A good insulating system includes a combination of products and construction techniques that provide a home […]
Part 10 of Heat Your Water With The Sun. It is usually a good idea to get more than one bid for installation of your solar system. Make sure that all the bids you receive are based on the same information and requirements. For example, comparing a bid for a system mounted on your roof […]
Part 6 of A Guide to Making Energy-Smart Purchases. You may find that many improvements involving energy efficiency require a contractor for installation. While finding a quality contractor at the best price can be a little confusing, these suggestions may help along the way. Try to limit your choices to local contractors. They are usually […]