News

Recession Briefing 4.30

What you need to know to survive and thrive in the recession.

The American economy is contracting at its steepest pace in 50 years, but a rise in consumer spending suggests the worst may have passed. (New York Times)

Where is all of the bailout money going?  This guide to the government’s pledged relief funds and spending breaks it down. (Christian Science Monitor)

Initial jobless claims decreased by 14,000 last week, to 631,000, but the total number of unemployed Americans is continuing to set records. (Bloomberg)

Trying to do more with less, evidently, some brands are shrinking the portions of their products — while keeping prices the same. (Consumerist)

With people showcasing their talents on YouTube and networking on Linkedln, are resumes relevant anymore? (NPR)

Highly paid employees are putting less money aside in deferred-compensation plans. (Wall Street Journal)

Where can a college grad find a hands-on, do-gooding  job these days? Patty and Sandy Stonesifer have some suggestions. (Slate)

Mint, a Web site that helps you make sense of your finances, has created a new game that turns thriftiness into a goal. (Lifehacker)

Faced with dismal job prospects, increasing numbers of British students are opting to stay in school and go for an advanced degree instead of trying to join the workforce. (BBC)

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