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Many major companies are hoping that consumers will use their smartphones as a credit or debit card, and Google may be preparing to join in with its Android phones. But is the trend, which has grown popular in Japan, finally ready to take off in the U.S.?

Wall Street is littered with so-called hot and smart investors who flamed-out during economic downturns or market crashes. But Marketocracy says its investment management teams are different -- with stock picks that have demonstrated proven, long-term staying prowess.

During the battle over Credit CARD Act, much talk focused on what the legislation would -- and wouldn't -- do. A year after the law rolled out, what's the word now? Here's an on-the-ground look at how card issuers and consumers are adapting to the new landscape.

Credit card companies are seeking to delay enforcement of lower limits on so-called "swipe fees." If successful, the postponement will cost customers and retailers more than $1 billion a month.

Shoppers didn't disappoint, buying presents at both low- and high-end prices, from jewelry to shoes. Most analysts predict sales will show year-over-year increases of 3% to 4% on Thursday, when major chains post December figures and holiday totals.

The Federal Reserve on Thursday proposed a new rule that would dramatically cut the swipe fees that banks charge merchants when customers use debit cards. The move, which stems from a provision in the financial overhaul bill in July, could benefit stores. But banks say it could harm consumers.

New rules proposed by the Fed for debit card transactions may mean consumers end up paying more to use their cards, while big retailers save billions. The rules would sharply limit the transaction fees sellers pay, so banks could recoup that money from buyers.

Retailers saw their sales figures jump in November with a strong Black Friday and a record-breaking Cyber Monday. The news could suggest this holiday season will be better than the last two, but could also mean that consumers have finished their shopping early.

Earlier this month, the Kardashian sisters launched a prepaid debit card aimed at young adults. But after the card drew criticism for its extraordinarily high fees, the sisters have backed out of the deal, ending the sale of the cards.

U.S. credit card delinquencies fell in October to the lowest levels of the year as more people were able to restart payments on their consumer debt, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing company filings.