|
|
| CTV ConsumerWATCH | ||
 CONSUMERWATCH: Fast-food breakfast choices Nearly every fast-food chain is getting into the breakfast game, but how healthy are the choices?  Consumer Reports said millions of people post where they are going on a particular day, which could tip off burglars.  CONSUMERWATCH: Entrepreneurs say they were scammed in trade-show incident Two Winnipeg entrepreneurs say they are out a substantial amount of money after a trade show they paid to be a part of was cancelled at the last minute.  CONSUMERWATCH: Flat-rate realtors Typically, real estate agents charge a commission on homes sold - about five per cent. But some real estate agents are now offering a flat-fee service.  CONSUMERWATCH: High-interest loans Credit experts are advising anyone who is planning on taking out a high-interest loan to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing.  CONSUMERWATCH: Social Media 101 Websites like Twitter and Facebook are an efficient way for businesses to advertise, but recent studies show the majorities of companies aren't using social media to their full advantage.  CONSUMERWATCH: Winnipeg's role as software-development hub The city is quickly becoming a leading source for software development and recently attracted an impressive international customer.  CONSUMERWATCH: Making or losing money with online ads Online marketing has seen massive expansion in recent years and is becoming an attractive option for businesses, both big and small. But the costs can be unexpectedly high, cautions one expert.  CONSUMERWATCH: Avoiding an audit Experts offer tips on how to avoid being audited.  CONSUMERWATCH: Celebrity endorsements Some local companies have earned Hollywood attention, but what is the impact of celebrity endorsements for product sales?  CONSUMERWATCH: Cellphone contract exit strategies Cellphone companies have notoriously charged large fees for cancellation, but with new legislation and a few tips from experts, it may be easier to get out of a contract when needed.  CONSUMERWATCH: How safe are your cosmetics? A new study by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found lead in 400 shades of lipstick, including a number of popular brands.  CONSUMERWATCH: Saving for retirement Experts weigh in on which investment plan may be best for you.  CONSUMERWATCH: Purchasing roses Roses are a big seller around Valentine's Day, but the high demand means higher prices, with many florists charging top dollar for the classic gift.  CONSUMERWATCH: Finding the right television When it comes to TVs, there are many models and options to choose from. CTV's Karen Rocznik goes over how to pick the screen that's right for you.  Deal websites offer discounts on everything from haircuts to travel packages. It's free for consumers to join, but businesses pay a price.  Putting off paying your credit card bill may be doing more damage than you think. Credit counsellors say a poor credit score can affect everything from mortgage rates to how much you pay for home insurance.  For those with a sweet tooth, soda, candy and cookies are the usual fixes for a sugar craving. Sugar is being consumed, though, in many other foods.  CONSUMERWATCH: Compact Fluorescent Bulbs CFL bulbs are meant to save energy but now there's concern they may be harming the environment. The bulbs contain mercury and need to be disposed of properly.  CONSUMERWATCH: Weight-loss programs Diet programs come in all shapes and sizes. Since Weight Watchers began years ago, many other diet plans have also entered the market.  CONSUMERWATCH: Online gift card swapping On average, Canadians spend about $6 billion every year on gift cards and a Consumer Reports study found one in four of those gift cards go unused.  CONSUMERWATCH: Tipping etiquette Etiquette experts weigh in with advice on tipping during the holiday season.  Quick Response Codes (QR codes) are everywhere: on buses, billboards and posters. Smart phone users scan them into their phones and the code directs them to a webpage, video or MP3.  E-readers such as the Kindle and the Nook offer access to thousands of books, newspapers and magazines, but what should consumers consider if looking to purchase one?  Apple's latest iPad 2 is expected to be a big seller this holiday season, but a number of other tablets are giving it a run for the money. | ||
CTV NEWS VIDEO PLAYER
|
Viewer
| |
| Archives | ||
| Links | ||
 |
||
|
Do you have a consumer issue or money matter affecting you or your community? Send your consumer tip (direct email link) to CTV's Karen Rocznik. | ||