The power of the pawn

Shops ease economic stress

By Natalie Saeger

Gas is priced at more than $3 per gallon and food prices are increasing. Money has become more important than ever before and something every college student could use more of. But when in a bind, where can one turn? The answer: a pawnshop. Pawnshops offer individuals quick loans, but also allow people to sell unneeded items as well as a place to shop while on a budget.

Save big money - buy a used car

By Aaron Woell

The biggest single purchase most people make is a house. Every American buys the biggest house they can so they can put as many rooms as possible between them and their mother-in-law. It's the American Way. Overlooked in all of this is the lowly automobile.

Student debt escalates due to loans

Economic bailout package will benefit student-loan companies, Treasury Secretary says

By Nick Perry

SEATTLE (MCT) - Tyson Hunter dresses sharply, works out most every day and can't wait to make his mark on the business world. Hunter, 23, also happens to owe $152,000 in student loans, accumulated in four years at Boston University. He graduated last year with a bachelor's degree in business administration, and now earns $40,000 a year at a market-research company.

Treasury plans to purchase stakes

U.S. recession projected, possibility of worldwide recession, according to economists

By Kevin G. Hall

WASHINGTON (MCT) - The Treasury Department confirmed Friday evening that it will buy stakes in major U.S. banks and financial institutions, announcing the bold move as leaders of the world's leading industrialized democracies agreed to guidelines for joint action but stopped short of taking coordinated steps sought by investors worldwide.