Investing

It's time to wish happy birthday to one of the more popular market investments: Index funds just turned 30. But why isn't everyone cheering? Jeff Tyler reports.

The sky isn't falling, but certain segments of the economy might make Chicken Little head for cover. How can you protect your portfolio from a softening housing market and fluctuating oil prices? Kai talks with Jane Kim of the Wall Street Journal.

A new breed of economist is studying brain scans to figure that out. Think of it as an academic mashup between neuroscience and economics. Host Bob Moon talks to The New Yorker's John Cassidy who's been looking into the trend of Neuroeconomics.

Oil prices dropped below $67 a barrel today, a long way from the recent high prices that approached $80. But despite falling prices, stock markets have barely reacted. Rachel Dornhelm reports.

Our economics editor Chris Farrell answers your burning money questions. This week, advice on: collecting Social Security, consolidating student loans, and accessing a credit report.

Hedge funds aren't for the rich anymore; average investors are putting cash into these risky ventures. But it's been hard to know just *how* risky hedge funds actually are... until now. Kai talks with Forbes' Paul Maidment.

The new pension bill gives employers the power to automatically enroll workers in 401(k) plans. That means employees need to be more pro-active. Ross Levin is the President of Accredited Investors, Inc. He provides a checklist of what you need to know.

Personal finance expert Chris Farrell talks with host Scott Jagow about what the Fed should do next with interest rates.

A study out today says the much-maligned pension still has many benefits over 401k accounts. Turns out pensions have lower fees and better financial performance. Hillary Wicai reports.

Kai Ryssdal talks with The New York Times' Micheline Maynard about the continuing changes and reports of impending deals at struggling Ford Motor Co.