CBC Blog

What You Should Know About Rising Interest Rates

March 28, 2018 by Mike Brooks

Interest rates are rising, and in some ways, that’s a good thing. The Federal Reserve slashed rates to near zero years ago when the economy plunged. Now employers are hiring, and unemployment is consistently low. Americans have more money in their pockets, so they’re more willing to spend. Companies are investing in growth, which stimulates the...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

What You Need to Know About the Apple Email Phishing Scam

March 07, 2018 by Mike Brooks

All over social media, users are asking their friends about an email they received from iTunes claiming they made a purchase they don’t know about. Individuals feel confusion at first, since the email looks like it came from Apple and asks for their personal and financial information. One user reports the email claimed he spent $103 on a game,...

Topics: Financial Education

Safeguard Against Identity Theft

March 05, 2018 by Mike Brooks

The prevalence of personal digital technology has ushered in an era of unprecedented convenience for everyone who has a smartphone in their pocket, or a laptop tucked into their bag. Yet these exciting portable gadgets, and the systems they have inspired, have also created a hothouse for people who would like to steal what does not belong to them....

Topics: Financial Education

SBA Loans vs. Conventional Financing

February 15, 2018 by Tom Maiale

To a novice borrower, the SBA lending world can oftentimes be quite confusing, and borrowing can seem a daunting task. But, with the right SBA lender, the process can be manageable and, in most cases, very similar to that of a conventional loan. In this article, I will be discussing commercial real estate purchases; however, many of these concepts...

Topics: Business Banking

Cyber Security Alert: Meltdown and Spectre Bugs

January 10, 2018 by Mike Brooks

Meltdown and Spectre are two major flaws in computer processors that leak sensitive data and passwords. These bugs could be exploited by cyber criminals to steal your sensitive data.

These flaws have existed in modern processors for 20 years, but it was recently discovered that virtually all computers and mobile devices are affected by the bugs.

Five New Year’s Resolutions for Your Finances

January 02, 2018 by Mike Brooks

With the change in the calendar comes a determination to make positive changes in your life and finances. This year, make New Year’s resolutions that are simple, yet sustainable and they will make a big impact on your finances in 2018, and for years to come.

Topics: Personal Banking

3 Ways to Save Money This Holiday Season

December 20, 2017 by Mike Brooks

‘Tis the season to be merry, right? Of course, that can be difficult to do when you’re straining your finances to accommodate this time of year. Between holiday travel and finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list, many people struggle to make ends meet during the holidays. Fortunately, there are a few ways to cut costs and have some...

Topics: Personal Banking

Enhance Your Holiday Shopping with These Online Security Tips

December 15, 2017 by Mike Brooks

Online shopping can be a lifesaver, especially during the holiday season. No more waiting in line for the latest toy, no more scouring aisles for the perfect gift – with online shopping, you can browse a store’s entire inventory with little more than a search bar, a comfy couch, and a steaming cup of coffee in your lap. Unfortunately, online...

Teach Your Kids About the Value of Money this Holiday Season

December 06, 2017 by Mike Brooks

The holidays are filled with food, family, and gift-giving. When adults ask children what Santa is bringing them, it’s normal for children to spend much of the time thinking about gifts. They realize it’s fun both to give and to receive, but they may not realize how quickly the season’s expenses add up. This year, why not use the holidays to teach...

Topics: Personal Banking

Four Financial Risks During the Holidays and How You Can Avoid Them

November 21, 2017 by Mike Brooks

The holiday season brings with it many familiar things, such as cold weather, festive decorations, and shopping. Lots of shopping means exposure to more risks, including identity theft and credit card fraud. Black Friday marks the official start to the holiday shopping season. Read on for some of the risks you may face this holiday season and some...

Topics: Financial Education