Karen Bennett

1 week ago | bankrate.com | Karen Bennett |Marc A. Wojno

It's been a tumultuous time for stock market investors, as the constant stream of macroeconomic news reports of latest tariff developments, an escalating trade war with China and predictions of a recession. Meanwhile, many savings accounts continue to offer competitive rates and a safe place to keep your emergency fund. The highest rate on a savings account today is 4.50 percent, and it's offered from BrioDirect. A minimum opening deposit of $5,000 is required.

2 weeks ago | bankrate.com | Karen Bennett |Marc A. Wojno

These days, many Americans are feeling a heavy sense of dread as headlines report on spiraling stock prices, President Donald Trump’s massive reciprocal tariffs and the possibility of recession. The negative economic news cycle has spurred worsening consumer sentiment. Many have been struggling with their expenses for some time, in fact, with more than 1 in 3 having to tap into their emergency savings in the past year.

3 weeks ago | bankrate.com | Karen Bennett |Marc A. Wojno

Bank account fraud comes in many forms including check fraud, P2P payment scams, ATM skimming, phishing and wire transfer schemes. Prevention is your first line of defense. Use tools like account alerts, cardless ATM access, strong passwords and secure Wi-Fi. If you fall victim to a scam, act quickly by contacting your bank or reporting to the FTC.

3 weeks ago | bankrate.com | Karen Bennett |Marc A. Wojno |Emmanuel Nyame

To use a debit card, you’ll need to open a checking account and may need to provide valid identification and a form of payment to do so. Debit cards are linked to checking accounts, so it’s important to keep track of your balance and avoid overspending. Credit cards can offer more fraud liability protection than debit cards, and cash can help you avoid overspending. Once upon a time, cash was king. These days, however, many prefer the convenience of using a debit card to make purchases.

1 month ago | bankrate.com | Kristen Kuchar |Karen Bennett

Today's top CD rate across terms is 4.50 percent APY, offered on three- and six-month CDs.Competitive CDs are earning around three times the national average rates, for various terms. The Federal Reserve held rates steady at its March meeting, and top CDs continue to earn the best returns in over a decade, outside the current rate cycle. Last week, the Federal Reserve chose to hold its benchmark rate at a range of 4.25-5 percent.