Finance
-
‘Zombie’ second mortgages spur new battles in state capitols
Mar 21, 2026 1:24 pm - A Bloomberg News investigation last year found that more than 600,000 second mortgages taken out before the 2008 financial crisis — and then largely forgotten amid a wave of loan modifications during the recovery — remain outstanding across the country. Debt collectors buy these mortgages for pennies on the dollar and then demand homeowners pay bills that often include years of back interest.
-
How community banks are fighting back against fraud for Chicago-area customersMar 21, 2026 1:00 pm - According to recent industry research from Bankrate, 40% of Americans experienced a financial scam or fraud attempt in the past 12 months, up from 34% the year before. Over a lifetime, nearly three-quarters of Americans — 73% — have encountered some form of financial fraud, and 11% report actually losing money.
-
Understanding Business Email CompromiseMar 21, 2026 11:22 am - Email is central to how today’s businesses operate. It’s fast, convenient and deeply embedded in everyday workflows. Unfortunately, that reliance has also made email a prime target for fraud. Business Email Compromise, or BEC, has become one of the most common and damaging threats facing organizations of all sizes, and it continues to become more sophisticated.
-
The role of community banks in sustainable local growthMar 21, 2026 11:00 am - Community banks play a crucial role in building strong, resilient local economies.
-
Tax scams are on the rise. Here’s what to know
Mar 17, 2026 8:05 am - Robocalls, texts, and phishing emails from scammers are up this tax season compared to previous years, with artificial intelligence likely increasing fraud attempts, according to the consumer protection bureau of the Federal Trade Commission.
-
How to set and invest your emergency fund
-
4 smart moves to cut your 2025 tax bill under new rules
-
Bank of America opens in Gurnee
Mar 13, 2026 10:41 am - Bank of America marked a milestone in Lake County, cutting the ribbon Feb. 18 on its first financial center in Gurnee and its 12th location countywide.
-
Thousands more Illinoisans with disabilities now have access to savings accounts
Mar 12, 2026 3:51 pm - The age of eligibility for ABLE accounts was expanded in January 2026, meaning people who acquired their disabilities before they turned 46 can now open accounts. These accounts allow people with disabilities to save and invest money without risking their federal benefits.
-
Senate passes bipartisan housing bill to improve access and affordability