Buzzword: Moneycard

TEXT OF STORY

A not-so-clever disguise brings us this week’s Marketplace Money buzzword: Moneycard.

Moneycard is a new venture from retail giant Wal-Mart. It’s a pre-paid debit card that looks and acts just like regular debit cards. Cardholders can electronically deposit paychecks, make purchases, and withdraw cash using any ATM.

Does that mean Wal-Mart’s becoming Wal-Bank? Well, last year, Wal-Mart tried to obtain a banking license, and the Fed turned them down. But financial products like the Moneycard don’t require a banking license.

Can I get a price check on loopholes?