Millions of credit and debit card users may have had their secure information stolen in the security breach at Target during the busiest shopping time of the year. It’s still unclear how much damage was done, but it was a pretty sharp wake-up call: even “secure” purchases may not be as safe as we thought….
Wages & Gold: An Ugly Reality
Inflation — or rather some of the effects of inflation, like rising prices — is a common theme among gold and silver enthusiasts. We often point to data and trends that show an increase in prices as a reason to invest in one or both metals. If you took a minute to go through our…
June FOMC Minutes: Tapering Still Dependent on Job Gains, Economic Outlook
Just three weeks ago stocks and commodities were sent spiraling downward after the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) released their economic forecast and U.S. Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke spoke about the tapering of assets becoming a reality by the end of the year. Fast forward to the release of the Fed’s June meeting minutes today…
The Origins of Money: A Brief History
Unless you’re independently wealthy, thinking of money means thinking of mortgage payments and utility bills, filling up the gas tank and buying groceries, even saving for your children’s education. Money can keep you awake at night! Yet when it comes to the origins of money, we rarely give it a moment’s thought. One of our…
A One-Minute History of the Federal Reserve
Anyone who monitors financial markets or precious metals has heard of the Federal Reserve. While the Federal Reserve has received considerable attention in recent years — due to financial crises and a feeble economy — few know the details of its history. Until now. Our latest Knowledge Center article, A Brief History of the Federal…
Effects of Inflation Grossly Underreported, Experts Say
While economists and central bankers believe inflation may boost economic recovery, it can also have a dramatic and widespread effect on prices. Contrary to popular belief, inflation can be defined as an increase in monetary supply. And while many associate inflation with rising prices, an increase in the cost of goods and services is simply…
