Financial Services and Advice Blog – Yield.com

We may catch a bit of heat for saying this, but we feel it’s something that has to be stated. Don’t trust CNBC’s financial advice. Now, we’re not saying this because we have a vendetta against the network. We think this concept has a lot of creative potential and could be a valuable tool for assisting layman in making investments. Sadly, the ongoing economic crisis should serve as an example as to why it’s not a good idea to listen to entrust these paid pundits with your retirement funds. The folks at CNBC either didn’t recognize the looming disaster or refused to publically express their concerns. Either way, viewers were left in the dark.

In general, you should be extremely selective when it comes to following financial advice. Understand that no one is going to right about unpredictable things like the stock market. Still, there are sources that can be considered relatively reliable and CNBC isn’t one of them. Consider Jim Cramer, the host of Mad Money. He praised Wachovia as a solid company shortly before they were bought out by Wells Fargo. He also recommended that people buy stock in Bear Sterns or retain the shares in their possession. In fact, the list of inaccurate or misleading statements made by this man alone should be reason enough for ignoring this network. But Mr. Cramer isn’t alone. CNBC has drawn considerable criticism for its unabashedly conservative tone and several of its reporters have made false statements on the air with respect to the President and his policies. Regardless of how you feel about Obama’s politics or his party, surely you would rather watch a news program that demonstrates a commitment to the truth.

There is a tendency to look to so-called professionals during times of turmoil and turning on CNBC is a lot easier and more entertaining than reading a serious business journal. Nevertheless, consider getting your information from a less partisan source, such as Business Week. Nearly every financial media outlet leans to the right; however, some are certainly more biased than others. It’s fairly difficult to find coverage that isn’t advancing some sort of agenda, which is why it’s also wise to seek out multiple sources with divergent ideological perspectives. It’s fine to pick up the Wall Street Journal as long as you follow up with a piece written by The New York Times’ Paul Krugman or Media Matters. Perhaps the best thing to do is to absorb the commentary and then draw your own conclusions. Speaking with an investment expert is wise as well, just remember that these people aren’t always truthful either.

The financial world is generally humorless, especially since we’re in the midst of the Great Recession. Yes, life might seem pretty bleak these days, and there’s no harm in finding solace in some work related comedy. Laughing at yourself and your surroundings can be really therapeutic, so open your favorite beverage, kick back, and crack a smile or two with some seriously funny stuff.

#1) The Office- NBC’s hit comedy series is sure to keep you entertained, and anyone who works in similar environment will be able to relate to these unforgettable characters. Ever since its first season back in 2005, The Office has been a consistent fan favorite. The show works well because the actors, like Steve Carell, are allowed to improv a bit, which adds a degree of spontaneity to its scripts. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s the first sitcom mockumentary, an innovative format that still feels fresh after five years.

#2) Dilbert- This comic strip breathed new life into the industry when it debuted in newspapers over 20 years ago. The lead character, a hopeless, hapless corporate drone named Dilbert, has become an American cultural symbol for bureaucratic inefficiency. Anyone who struggles to etch out a white collar living can appreciate the satirical perspective of creator Scott Adams. The strip eventually made its way onto the small screen, though its stay was relatively short lived.

#3) Office Space- Written by famed humorist Mike Judd, this film was released in 1999 and many consider it an absolute classic. The story revolves around a young white collar professional working for a nondescript software company. He and his coworkers hatch a plan to stick it to The Man, but things quickly get out of hand. This cult hit has a loyal following and is a definite must see for anyone who’s searching for meaning in the corporate world. Indulge in a little vicarious revenge fantasy by watching this movie. Chances are, it’ll instantly become one of your favorites.

Hi everyone!

On behalf of the staff here at yield.com I’d like to welcome new and veteran users alike to our blog. We are very excited about this unique opportunity to share our thoughts, tips, and advice in a laid back forum like this one. Our goal will be to update this puppy at least once a month, so be sure to check back often! As many of you already know, Yield.com is a reliable source of up-to-date financial information from around the globe. You will find everything from stock updates, mortgages, consumer credit, banking, employment, taxes, real estate, and more right here on our site. But this stuff can be a little stuffy and sometimes downright dull, which is where this blog comes in. Here you will find light hearted articles, humor, and anecdotes mixed in the facts. So let’s loosen up and have some fun here, folks. Enjoy!