Bank of America's announcement this week that it would start charging a monthly $5 fee for using a debit card to make purchases is the latest in banking industry upcharges. As fee-free options for banking dwindle, the bottom line is that consumers are paying more to use their own money.
Fourth-quarter 2010 earnings season ramps up this week. Analysts expect strong results from some big corporate names. And on the heels of last week's big earnings beat from JPMorgan Chase, the financial sector will have plenty more results to peruse this week.
Moody's is reviewing 10 large regional banks for possible downgrades because it thinks financial reform means total government support is now less likely. That's setting off a debate about whether those banks will actually take a hit to profitability.
