From The Editor

Our "best" issue, by Janet Bodnar

Profit From the Urge to Merge

Anticipating the next takeover is dicey, so stick with funds that invest in pending deals.

Money & Ethics

When do agents need to split a commission? by Knight Kiplinger

Bye Bye Recession

Our exclusive index says the economy is finally on the mend.

My Point of View

Lessons from the crisis, by Knight Kiplinger

Bah, Humbug! Give Smarter this Year

Stop wasting cash on singing fish and ugly sweaters, says this Scrooge economist.

A Blueprint for Your Budget

Chase’s new credit-card tool can actually help save you money.

Clunkers, Part II-and III and IV

Appliance and electronics stores mimic the trade-in program.

Opening Shot

Media's bright spot, by James K. Glassman

Real Money

Steady income at a steep price, by Mary Beth Franklin

Discovering Value

How contrarians win, by Whitney Tilson and John Heins

Our Favorite Broker-Sold Funds

A dozen standouts you can buy without a fee through your adviser, broker or retirement plan.

Investments That Let You Sleep Tight

Nine stock and bond funds -- plus three stocks -- that offer minimal risk and consistent returns.

Going Abroad? Think Small

Six funds that find gems among obscure foreign funds.

5 Tech Giants to Buy Now

Companies will need these firms' services and expertise to survive a long period of tepid economic growth.

Going Long

Rational exuberance, by Jeremy J. Siegel

Cash in Hand

Bond with your bonds, by Jeffrey R. Kosnett

Mutual Funds

Four big surprises, by Russel Kinnel

Akre Focus Joins the Kip 25

We give a nod to the crusty manager who previously ran FBR Focus.

Best Values in Private Colleges

These schools strive to deliver a high-quality education at an affordable price.

Tax Moves that Save Big Bucks

Cash in on this year’s special credits and tax deductions before they expire

Choose the Right Medicare Plan for Your Needs

We help you decide between sticking with Uncle Sam or choosing a private plan.

5 Green Myths Exposed

We reveal the truth behind the hype -- and how much money you may be wasting by buying into it.

Bank Roulette

If your bank fails, you probably won't lose any deposits or face hassles getting to your money.

A Gift Card That Gives Back

Here is a holiday gift idea that really pays it forward

Ask Kim

Kimberly Lankford tackles broker inactivity fees and saves one reader $430.

The Best List

Our annual roundup of top values in everything from credit cards to cars, cell plans to college savings, and ETFs to IRAs.

2009 Best List: Travel

2009 Best List: Green and Used Cars

2009 Best List: Tech & Gadget

2009 Best List: College

2009 Best List: Insurance

2009 Best List: Retirement Resources

2009 Best List: Credit & Banking

2009 Best List: Investing

Drive Time

Warranty warning, by Jessica Anderson

The Lowdown

What you need to know about tipping, by Laura Cohn