The week after Christmas is one of the busiest weeks for retailers as consumers return those holiday gifts they don't want or can't use.

A look back at 2008 in the world of finances.

The childhood axiom, "what goes up, must come down" can often be used to describe the ups and downs of the economy in any given year, but 2008 was marked by a financial free fall, one not seen since the Great Depression. Business reporter Annika Pergament has a look back.

A new study is shedding light on overdraft fees and what it means for anyone with a debit card or habitual ATM user. Monica Brown has more.

Low interest rates and great deals on real estate may make it a buyer's market, but the self-employed are getting completely frozen out of the mortgage process. Monica Brown filed the following report.

Some very simple strategies can add up to big savings at the grocery store cash register. Monica Brown filed the following report.

Tax time is still a few months away, but experts recommend acting now if you want to maximize those deductions. This year, it's especially important to cut your losses, literally.

Real estate agents with the Charles Ruternberg Agency get no salary and no health benefits. They don't even get their own desks. But when they make a sale, they keep the profits. Monica Brown has the details.

Layaway is becoming once again a popular, budget-friendly way to pay for holiday purchases. Monica Brown filed the following report.

As New Yorkers continue to feel anxiety about the economy, some are starting to keep their money in a "safe" place. Our Monica Brown filed the following report.

Shoppers who want to avoid the long lines on Black Friday, yet still want to score some great deals, should turn to the net on "Cyber Monday." This year, Cyber Monday falls on Dec. 1, and it's the unofficial start to the online holiday shopping season. But while you're busy shopping, a hacker could be busy stealing your identity.

The start of the holiday shopping season is just around the bend, but this year, registers will be ringing up fewer sales.

Lending money can damage a relationship, but with careful planning loans from friends and family can be an easier way of getting money during the credit freeze. Shazia Khan filed the following Money Matters report.

The recent economic downturn is sending many shoppers to thrift stores. Shazia Khan filed the following Money Matters report.

Some New Yorkers are paying the price of locking in their oil rates earlier this year. Shazia Khan filed the following Money Matters report.