The ongoing debt crisis in Europe and our economic woes at home have put a damper on Americans’ hopes for recovery. According to the most recent COUNTRY survey, nearly nine-in-ten (87 percent) say another recession is likely in the next two years. Yet, only half are prepared to handle it financially. » Read More

We are the champions! After beating our arch rivals, the COUNTRY Kickers are the kickball champs of the world, well…the Eagan, Minn., area to be exact. » Read More

During the holiday season, sounds of holiday cheer mix with the ringing of cash registers and screaming shoppers. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, except for your wallet. According to the latest COUNTRY survey, nearly 60 percent of Americans plan to scale back their holiday spending due to the economy. » Read More

Home from Afghanistan for Veterans Day. That means I get to see first-hand the pride Americans have for those who serve. For the soldiers far from home, I’m proud to join my co-workers at COUNTRY Financial and the IAA Family of Companies in Operation Salute Our Soldiers. » Read More

Our economy saw a bit of relief last week. According to the Labor Department, employers added 80,000 jobs in October, which decreased the unemployment rate to 9.0. Is this enough to ease fears of a double-dip recession? We’ll know when our new COUNTRY survey comes out next Tuesday. » Read More

According to our latest COUNTRY Financial Security Index, Generation X-ers (aka adults ages 18 to 29) aren’t feeling so hot about their financial security. Looking at the unemployment rate for recent grads, it’s not hard to see why! Even those newly employed might be struggling to balance monthly expenses with growing their savings. » Read More

We all have long-term financial goals. Whether they include saving for the newest Apple gadget, a child’s education or your retirement, the path to achieving them is often masked by unknowns. » Read More

With my St. Louis Cardinals fighting for their 11th World Series championship, I have my Cardinal-colored glasses on. Almost every move coach Tony LaRussa made in the postseason has worked. He has a knack for making difficult decisions under pressure. For European officials in an economic bind, maybe they can learn something from Tony LaRussa! » Read More

Last week, we took a quick poll of our Facebook fans and asked just how much they were going to spend on Halloween this year.  » Read More

I just got home. It’s been a full workday. I set down my bag and sigh. All I want to do is relax. I can’t imagine cooking a healthy meal or hitting the gym. Sound familiar? » Read More