Investing and Global Finance News

Author Archives: Irwin Gold

Top 5 Business Rewards Credit Cards for Small Businesses

Though not covered by the Credit CARD Act of 2009, business rewards credit cards have a positive reputation amongst small businesses. According to the National Small Business Association, 37% of business owners are relying on credit to cover a portion of their costs. These credit cards feature expense-tracking tools that help organize and monitor company… Continue Reading

Retail Spending Picks Up Over the Summer

For the first time in five months, retail spending in the U.S. has seen major improvement. Throughout July, retail spending increased in all sectors, including electronics, building supplies, garden equipment, furniture, sporting goods, apparel and more. According to the commerce department, retail sales increased 0.8% in total last month; the most significant rise since February.… Continue Reading

German Economy Holds Steady As Euro Zone Continues to Crumble

Despite Germany’s stalwart growth, the euro zone’s economy stuttered in the second quarter. According to Reuters.com, the region “contracted by 0.2% on the quarter.” Meanwhile, “Germany eked out growth of 0.3%, marginally beating forecasts, but its forward-looking ZEW sentiment index slid for a fourth month running, undercutting even the lowest estimate in a Reuters poll.”… Continue Reading

Small Businesses Learn the Value of Facebook and Social Media

In a world of hesitant consumers and inconsistent business, Facebook has become a very important tool. According to recent reports, companies who use Facebook have significantly more interaction with customers, positive feedback, networking opportunities and increased sales. In general, small businesses are growing fonder of social media tools and have come to rely on their… Continue Reading

U.S. Economy Slowing Once Again

Despite hopeful outlooks and talks of growth, the U.S. economy is floundering. Winter activity was strong, but as the weather warmed, consumers cut back on their spending while export demand fell as well. Gas prices rose, while businesses minimized their employment plans and investments. The situation remains at a relative standstill as individuals and companies… Continue Reading

Top 5 Social Media Management Tools for Small Businesses

In an effort to provide a much-needed service to small businesses, PCWorld.com recently listed the top five social media management tools in the sector. Choosing only those suitable for smaller companies, every social media outlet listed meets criteria such as affordability; scalability; support for Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter; and update posting assistance. Each tool is… Continue Reading

L&G See Growth Despite ‘Economic Headwind’

Legal & General Group, a UK insurance company, recently stated that although further crises are expected on a global macroeconomic level, their company will persevere. In fact, Tim Breedon’s replacement Mr. Nigel Wilson, chief executive, has plans to further expand the businesses through bolt-on acquisitions. The first half of 2012 saw revenue grow from GBP493… Continue Reading

German Economy Falters At Long Last

Throughout the economic concerns and debt crises, Germany has always managed to keep its head above water, and sometimes thrive, despite the area’s hardships. Not anymore. In 2011, German exports increased dramatically while employment levels improved, wages rose and real estate climbed to altogether new heights. Near-balance of the federal budget and other positive signs… Continue Reading

163,000 Jobs Added, But U.S. Economy Still Shaky

163,000 jobs were added in the United States this past month, a hopeful figure despite the creeping unemployment rates across the country. The largest climb since February, the development fuels the political debate about the nation’s economy. Mark Zandi of Moody’s Analytics said “I was relieved. After three months of very weak job growth, I… Continue Reading