Are hotels cheaper if you book direct?, Does Clark trust the BBB?

January 18, 2024 | Read Online

Last week, we asked for your personal financial outlook for 2024. Later in this email, find out how many of you think your finances are better off vs. last year.

💵 Today’s Top Stories

Do You Get Better Prices on Hotels from Third-Party Sites or by Booking Directly?

You and I like finding a deal on a hotel as much as Clark. (OK, let’s be honest, almost as much.) Does that mean we should book through the hotel or through a travel site like Priceline? Read more.

Does Clark Trust the Better Business Bureau?

The BBB is a popular avenue for consumers who have been wronged to warn others or get recourse. But can a company’s BBB rating be trusted, in Clark’s opinion? Read more.

Should You Buy Gold at Costco?

Costco famously began selling gold bars last year. Does Clark think it’s a good idea to buy gold in general? And if you do, does Costco offer a good price vs. other options? Read more.

These Streaming Changes Are Top Money-Saving Moves in 2024

Attacking subscriptions is the “number one area” you can impact to spend less in 2024 according to Clark. From switching to ad-supported tiers to relying on FAST, here are some practical tips. Read more.

Why Amazon May Be the New Solution for Streaming Your Favorite Sports Team

Financially strained Bally Sports has thrown watching or streaming local sports teams into chaos. But Amazon made a deal that could change the landscape for 37 pro teams. Read more.

💵 Survey Responses: What’s Your Financial Outlook for 2024?

Last week, we asked you whether you feel better or worse about your finances in 2024 vs. ’23.

You answered: 54.0% felt worse about their finances in ’24, 35.8% felt better and 10.2% were neutral. Here are a few responses:

John in California: “A little better because I believe the Fed has reined in inflation and will continue to reduce interest rates through ’24 by 0.5 to 1.0%.”

Paul in Florida: “Worse. Inflation is bad enough on our daily purchases. But in Florida, property insurance, car insurance and property taxes are out of control. And we expect major increases in 2024 – if we can even get property insurance.”

Jennifer in Wisconsin: “Worse because any wage increases I have seen in the past year have been more than gobbled up by inflation. I’m paying more for gas, electricity, groceries, everything.”

Sandy in Kentucky: “It’s about even. Some expenses have increased and others have decreased. I would call it a wash.”

📊 Stat of the Day

🛻 47: Number of consecutive years that Ford has claimed the best-selling truck in the United States. The company sold more than 700,000 of its F-Series truck in 2023 and was beating runner-up Chevrolet by nearly 200,000 through November.

💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals

eBay: Take an extra 50% off Adidas items

Get this deal.

7-night Pacific coastal wine country cruise from $399

Get this deal.

See All of the Best Deals Today

🎙️ Podcast

YouTube video by Clark Howard: Save More, Spend Less

Full Show: Clark's Health Update and Huge TV Deals

Clark recently had a procedure on his heart. He explains the full story and how he’s feeling now. (Don’t worry, it’s good news!) Also, there are big deals on big TVs right now. Clark shares tips to help you save money if you want a new TV before the Super Bowl!

Watch the Full Episode

☎️ Need Money Help?

The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.