Financial Reporting

It's tough out there. Your viewers, listeners and online users are struggling to make sense of the economy as they deal with the effects of the recession.  And they're depending on you for solid, useful information. Our  financial reporting section can help.

Check the latest suggestions below, or click to find more story ideas, coverage strategies, background and training opportunities. 

Story idea: Retirement worries

The recession has made it more likely that many Americans won't be as well off when they retire as they are now--if they can even afford to retire, that is.

Story idea: Homebuyer tax credit

The tax credit for first-time homebuyers may be extended, making millions more Americans eligible. That makes this a good time to look into how the program has worked so far and what might be in the offing.

Story idea: Hospital cutbacks

The rising cost of health care is leading some hospitals to cut services. The effect on patients is obvious. But what about the ripple effect on the entire community?

Story idea: Holiday shopping

Halloween spending may be a harbinger of bad news to come for retailers. Consumers are expected to spend less this entire holiday season than they did last year.

Story idea: Paying more for health care

No matter what Congress does to overhaul the health care system, workers will pay more for coverage next year. And they're getting the bad news now, during "open enrollment" season.

How to: Watchdog local companies

Tough economic conditions that put pressure on businesses also increase the incidence of failure and fraud. To spot local companies with problems, you just need to know where to look. 

Story idea: Blood banks

The high unemployment rate is hitting home in some unexpected places. Corporate blood drives are attracting fewer donors, leaving blood banks hurting.

Story idea: Peer-to-peer lending

People who can't borrow from banks or want to avoid high fees are turning to a new source of money: total strangers. How do they do it? By joining a social lending group.

Story idea: Homeowner insurance

Rates are going up for homeowners across the country, as insurance companies raise premiums by as much as 30 percent. What's going on here?

Story idea: Reluctant landlords

With housing prices still stubbornly low in much the country, many Americans are holding on to their homes and renting them out. But the decision to become a landlord may not always be the wisest choice.