August

A library card is becoming an unexpected money-saving tool in US; one Chicago-area library partnered with local businesses for discounts, while Brooklyn added 150,018 cardholders through August, up 16% from 2 years earlier

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A library card is becoming an unexpected money-saving tool in US; one Chicago-area library partnered with local businesses for discounts, while Brooklyn added 150,018 cardholders through August, up 16% from 2 years earlier

A library card is becoming an unexpected money-saving tool for Americans, as public libraries expand beyond books and offer access to free entertainment, technology help, community services and, in some places, discounts at local businesses.In Glenview, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, the local library partnered with businesses during September’s Library Card Sign-Up Month to offer special … Read more

Gold up 15%, silver 19% in August: Why are precious metals prices surging?

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Gold is up 15% and silver 19% in August. (Reuters)

Gold and silver prices are ending August with a sharp rally. Gold prices have risen about 15% this month, while silver prices have jumped around 19%. The rally has added huge value to the precious metals market. Together, gold and silver have gained nearly $5 trillion in market value in August, based on an analysis … Read more

Mortgage rates today: 30-year, 15-year, ARM rates and refinance rates on August 17

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Mortgage rates today, August 17, 2026 (AP)

Mortgage rates today are slightly lower for home buyers than for people refinancing their loans. According to rates from the Zillow lender marketplace, the average 30-year fixed purchase mortgage rate is 6.54% on Monday, August 17, 2026. That is 5 basis points lower than the 30-year refinance rate of 6.59%. Mortgage rates today, August 17, … Read more