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No-Spin Votes & MMA Notes

By brass Staff on July 31st, 2008 • Money Market, Voting, Investing, Life, Savings
Originally appeared in: Fall 2008Ask brass
Ballot biases

Q. The presidential election is coming up, and I don't know who or what I should vote for. Where can I get unbiased info on the issues and candidates?

A. It's difficult to find information that doesn't have some spin on it, but these resources should help with your research. No matter what, it's usually smart to take every "fact" with a grain of salt.

  • Ontheissues.org supplies quotes on issues from each candidate as well as their voting records and debate info.
  • Glassbooth.org collects and distributes information about each candidate, including bio information and quotes on important issues.
  • Votesmart.org is an independent, nonpartisan, volunteer-based research organization.

Make sure to check your state, county or city election website for information about local candidates and issues. Spread your enthusiasm and get others voting by visiting rockthevote.com.

Money market

Q. I keep hearing about money market accounts. Why would I want one and which one should I choose?

A. Money market accounts are tools for multiplying your money. There are two kinds: a money market deposit account and a money market fund.

Money market deposit account
  • Usually requires higher minimum balances than regular savings accounts, but it also has higher interest rates
  • May have check-writing capabilities
  • Limited number of withdrawals per month (usually no more than six)
  • FDIC or NCUA insured
Money Market fund
  • A type of mutual fund – a company that pools money from investors and invests it in stocks, bonds, and other assets
  • Generally has higher returns than deposit accounts
  • Higher risk than deposit account with no guarantee on the principle
  • Not insured Contact your financial institution for more help. To compare rates and other info, visit bankrate.com.

Editor's Note: When answering your questions, brass consults with experienced professionals from a wide spectrum of industries. We utilize their expertise to give you the answers you need, but it's always wise to seek additional opinions from other professionals.

Sources: bankrate.com; investopedia.com; marketwatch.com; glassbooth.org; nea.org; vote-smart.org; ontheissues.org; sec.gov

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