Marketplace®

Daily business news and economic stories
  • Joseph Klein of Sayville, N.Y., is assisted by Lowe's employee Ormani Rivera after his purchase of a generator in Hicksville, N.Y.
    Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

    Retail sales rose a tenth of a percent in April. Why are people spending more and are they going back into credit card debit over these purchases?

  • The government provides countless resources to help military families with financial literacy and even offers low interest loans to help them in times of emergency. So, why are many troops opting to take out risky payday loans instead?

  • In her new book, "Don't Go Back to School," author Kio Stark discusses why scores of people think traditional higher education is a waste of money.

  • Lawmakers are considering a bill that would make it easier for online retailers to charge sales tax. If the legislation passes, how would it affect your online shopping habits?

  • According to The National Retail Federation, consumers will spend $20.7 billion on Mother's Day gifts this year, but Paula Poundstone, comedian and mom of three, thinks everyone should save their money.

  • Whether it's lottery tickets, bar tabs or lunch dates, we all have something we spend money on that we think we shouldn't. But according to personal finance expert Paula Pant, waste is in the eye of the beholder.

  • From what to do with your savings to how to budget for buying a new home, financial expert Gail Cunningham offers advice on how to plan ahead.

  • New data released by the federal government reveals that costs for identical medical procedures can vary widely from hospital-to-hospital. So to get the best deal, you might have to do some comparison shopping.

  • Looking for the perfect gift to give to Mom this Mother's Day? How about a finding a deal that shows your affection and your practically — something every mom can appreciate.

  • Ten years ago, Marketplace Money listener Greg McKenna was over $20K in debt. Today, he's debt free and has a nest egg worth over $100,000. Here's how he did it.