Good Ideas Finance

Visa and other large credit card companies have sophisticated algorithms which can predict divorce - which they care about because credit worthiness drops. http://bit.ly/9cU6YW

The mathematical formula which analyses financial risk, developed by David Li, drove much of the securitization leading to the current recession. Wired Magazine http://bit.ly/bwAJVH

Responsible Wealth is a non-profit which helps affluent Americans (top 5% / $1m+ net worth) speak out against tax and other policies favoring the rich. http://www.responsiblewealth.org

African specialists recently polled by Foreign Policy ranked most promising African countries in which to invest. Top five were Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Ethiopia. http://atfp.co/19us16K

Tipping in restaurants doesn't improve service and can be both unfair and discriminatory. Many top restaurants in the US are eliminating tips. NY Times http://nyti.ms/1dN0oeD

Dynasty Trusts allow wealthy to pass most assets for generations tax free, helping to establish an American aristocracy. NYTimes http://nyti.ms/9Eg47O

Economists demonstrate that toilet paper sales, including the shifting ratios from ordinary to premium brands, serve as a harbinger for economic recovery. MSN http://bit.ly/d3zIzz

There are $2.8 trillion in municipal bonds in the US, but cities' finances are precarious, particularly when considering massive pension obligations. Time Magazine http://bit.ly/ctu7R9

US Corporations set up subsidiaries in low tax countries. They declare their costs in high-tax environments and earnings in low-cost environments, minimizing taxes. In 2009 GE earned over $10 billion but paid no US taxes. Forbes: http://bit.ly/aoO38y

Scrip, which is currency with an expiration date, has been used in financial crises to stimulate spending. NY Times http://nyti.ms/bIFhN4

Three social entrepreneurs have sold shares in themselves, promising a percentage of future earnings in exchange for investments. http://bit.ly/5r2gy2

Current events argue for a Global Central Bank - as argued by Jeffrey Garten of Yale. http://ow.ly/qqxr