Financial Fellow

Financial Insight for Young Professionals

Entries from October 2009

Chrysler Matches “Cash For Clunkers”

July 29th, 2009 · 1 Comment

Written by J.P. Wicklein
     Earlier this month I wrote about the “Cash for Clunkers” program through which the federal government will provide eligible buyers up to $4,500 toward the purchase of a new car.  Last week Chrysler announced they will match the government’s $4,500 voucher on select models - producing a total discount of $9,000.  [...]

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Tags: Promotions · Save Money

A New Way to “Get In” on a Company Before it Goes Public

July 24th, 2009 · No Comments

Written by J.P. Wicklein
     A few sites have popped up that connect shareholders of private companies with individuals seeking a piece of a company before it goes public.   Typically shareholders of private companies, often employees, are unable to cash out their shares until their employer goes public.  On the other side of the fence are [...]

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Tags: Investments · Stock Market

Bank of America Offering $100 to New Customers, $25 to Existing Customers

July 21st, 2009 · 7 Comments

Written by J.P. Wicklein
     Bank of America is offering up to $100 to new checking account customers and $25 to existing checking account customers. 
$75 promo for new customers
     New Bank of America checking account customers are eligible for a $75 bonus.  Here’s how to qualify:
·         Be a new Bank of America customer - defined [...]

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Tags: Banks · Make Money · Promotions

I’m Earning 9.89% Through Peer-to-Peer Lending

July 16th, 2009 · 1 Comment

Written by J.P. Wicklein

Several months ago I signed up as an investor with a peer-to-peer lending company, Lending Club. Presently I’m earning a net annualized return of 9.89%. This rate of return crushes anything I’m making through a traditional CD or online savings account. My rate of return is comparable to the historical returns offered by stocks - without the volatility.

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Tags: Interest Rates · Investments · Loans · Make Money

Penny Pinching Tip #3: How to Save Money on Software

July 13th, 2009 · 3 Comments

Written by J.P. Wicklein
     Last week I decided to buy anti-virus software for my laptop.  After choosing the software, Norton’s Internet Security 2009 by Symantec, I went about finding the cheapest price. 
Amazon
     First, I checked out how much Symantec charged through their website ($59.99). Next, I looked at Amazon ($29.98).  Although Symantec charges twice [...]

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Tags: Penny Pinching · Save Money

Earn $895 by Participating in a Road Study

July 8th, 2009 · 4 Comments

Written by J.P. Wicklein

The University of Iowa has launched a federally-funded study of America’s drivers. What could this mean for you? They’re looking for drivers and are offering $895 to entice participants.

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Tags: Make Money · Money · Uncategorized

Update: “Cash for Clunkers” is Law!

July 4th, 2009 · 1 Comment

Written by J.P. Wicklein

In May I wrote about the federal “Cash for Clunkers” program. Through the program, owners of poorer mileage cars could be eligible to receive up to $4,500 toward the purchase of a new, higher mileage car. Last month, the “Cash for Clunkers” program was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama. It has been officially re-branded the “Car Allowance Rebate System” (CARS). Here are the details:

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Tags: Save Money · Uncategorized