Chris Farrell

Chris Farrell is economics editor of Marketplace Money, a nationally syndicated one-hour weekly personal finance show produced by American Public Media. Chris is also economics correspondent for Marketplace, the largest business program in broadcasting and chief economics correspondent for American RadioWorks, the largest producer of long-form documentaries in public radio. He is also contributing economics editor at Business Week magazine. He was host and executive editor of public television’s Right on the Money. He is the author of two books: Right on the Money: Taking Control of Your Personal Finances, and Deflation: What Happens When Prices Fall. Chris is a graduate of Stanford and the London School of Economics.

Latest from Chris Farrell

Dec 15, 2011
When to get aggressive with the mortgage paydown
My question is, if your mortgage rate is higher than what you could expect from investing, wouldn't it make more sense to pay on the mortgage? This is almost the same as the concept of paying off the credit card with the highest rate first. What are your thoughts on this? John, Rapid City, SD
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Dec 15, 2011
Year-end tax tips
The holiday madness is upon us. But, between shopping and holiday party planning, taxpayers can still take steps to save on their 2011 taxes. There are a few last-minutes opportunities to consider by December 31.
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Dec 14, 2011
We got an inheritance. Now what?
My husband and I recently inherited over $150,000, which is more than enough money to pay off our mortgage OR invest for our retirement. My husband wants to pay off the mortgage, leaving us with very little to invest. I prefer to put the bulk of the money "to work" via a nationally known and reputable financial services group, using a conservative and long-term approach. What do you suggest? Susan, Brookville, IN
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Dec 14, 2011
Market timing is hard — really hard
Lesson learned: Market timing gurus are hazardous to your wealth.
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Dec 13, 2011
Time to consolidate accounts
I have been very fortunate to stay almost continually employed despite three layoffs in 10 years. I have also contributed regularly to my employers' sponsored, tax-deferred retirement plans. In the process, I have acquired several accounts managed by Fidelity, including one at my current employer. (Some employers set up three or four accounts.) Is there any downside to rolling over accounts linked to a specific employer to one Fidelity account? I'm just looking to simplify managing my accounts. Thanks! Kathy, Warrenville, IL
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Dec 12, 2011
The co-signer’s curse
I co-signed a friend's private graduate student loans in 2005. She was an international student, which is why she needed the co-signer to get approved. In 2007, she had a stroke and moved home to Costa Rica. She hasn't gotten a job and taken responsibility for paying the loans since then. How can I get off of the loan agreement as a co-signer? Ryanne, Washington D.C.
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Dec 12, 2011
Good reads
Here are some recent stories on a variety of personal finance subjects.
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Dec 9, 2011
Savings and a new car
My current car is getting up there both in years and in miles, and I'd like to replace it before anything major goes horribly wrong. If I sell some of the stock I've accumulated in my Employee Stock Purchase Plan, I should be able to pay for the car in full in cash. The other option is to finance the other half of the purchase. Which route would you recommend? Thank you! Arcadiy, Atlanta, GA
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Dec 8, 2011
To close or not to close
I recently "moved my money" and I'd like to get rid of my old credit cards linked to the old bank accounts. Assuming there are no fees for keeping the old cards, should I save one and not use it, or occasionally use it in case it needs to remain active? Or can I simplify my life, cut loose the dormant accounts and just move on to my new cards? Any advice appreciated. Charlie, San Francisco, CA
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Dec 8, 2011
Work ‘til you drop?
The catchphrase of the hour seems to be "Work 'til you drop." You know the refrain: Work is a social place. It provides a paycheck. An older worker with a job can delay drawing down savings and filing for Social Security. Yet working longer isn't for everyone — far from it.
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