But, says Viale, 70 percent of Americans who take out a home equity loan or other type of loan to pay off credit cards end up with the same (if not higher) debt load within two years.

“The Fed's rate hike hits home”
July 2, 2004
Chris Viale, acting President and CEO of Cambridge Credit, participated in an interview with Associated Press Radio regarding the impact higher interest rates would have on consumers. Particularly, credit card holders tied to prime lending rates would be hit hard, as well as those with home-equity lines of credit.

“Fed raises interest rates after 4 years”
July 1, 2004
In an article about the impact higher interest rates will have on consumers, Chris Viale, acting President and CEO of Cambridge Credit, was quoted as saying that low interest rates of the past gave many consumers a false sense of stability and tempted them to increase their credit card usage.

“Banks Will Lien On You With Rate Hike”
July 1, 2004
In an article highlighting the impact interest rate hikes will have on consumers, Chris Viale, acting President and CEO of Cambridge Credit, was quoted on the issue of adjustable rate mortgages. He said, "People with a $300,000 adjustable-rate mortgage could see their monthly payment go up by $60 to $150 this summer.”

“Bills don't take a holiday”
June 25, 2004
Chris Viale, acting President and CEO of Cambridge Credit, was used as a source in an article about the importance of paying bills while on vacation. Whether consumers are away for a week or a month, it is important to manage finances and pay down debt at all times of the year, even while on vacation.

“A rate-hike guide for consumers”
June 29, 2004
Chris Viale, acting President and CEO of Cambridge Credit, appeared on CNBC to discuss the immediate impact increasing interest rates will have on consumers nationwide. According to Chris, homeowners who took out an adjustable rate mortgage will be hit the hardest.

“GETTING PERSONAL: Shifting Strategies Amid Rising Rates”
June 29, 2004
In an article about the rise in interest rates and their affect on consumers, Chris Viale, acting President and CEO of Cambridge Credit, offered consumers advice to pay off their credit card bills with the highest rates first.

“Don't blow your home equity”
April 22, 2004
In an article about the lure of home equity to consolidate debt, Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, warned consumers against consolidating credit card debt this way because it is often a temporary fix.

“Credit scores: Key to the best mortgage”
April 25, 2004
Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, was included as a source in a story about the importance of credit scores when buying a home. Chris advised consumers that they might be able to further improve their score by consolidating credit card accounts or transferring balances.

“Graduates' Rosy Outlook Has Thorns”
March 18, 2004
Cambridge Credit’s GoodPayer.com educational website was included as a resource for more help in an article addressing the financial issues many recent college graduates face upon entering the ‘real world.’

“Watercooler Column: You've Got Debt”
March 17, 2004
In an article highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of online shopping, Cambridge Credit offered tips for consumers to help them avoid some of the pitfalls that can cause higher credit card bills. Highlights included comparing prices, avoiding impulse buys and ensuring that the retailer’s offer is truly a deal.

“GETTING PERSONAL: College Students Need A Financial Plan”
March 16, 2004
Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, was quoted on the importance of young adults creating an overall budget to help pay down debt in an article about college students and tips for implementing a financial plan.

“Credit Cards To Students Like Steroids To Athletes”
March 7, 2004
Cambridge Credit’s GoodPayer.com educational website was cited as a resource for students in an article about the dangers of credit card debt for current college students and recent graduates.

“Business Watercooler Column: Home-Based Loans”
March 3, 2004
In an article highlighting the issue of home equity loans and its impact on consumer debt, Cambridge Credit warned homeowners to think twice before loading up on a home equity loan. Cambridge suggested homeowners make a budget and to look ahead a little — remembering that housing values can decline and you could end up owing more on your house than it is worth.

“Consumer's Edge”
February 13, 2004
In an article about shopping tips for consumers on Valentine’s Day, Cambridge Credit was cited for tips on how to “not fall into the red” on the holiday by creating an overall spending budget.

“Opposites Can Attract And Work Things Out When It Comes To Love And Money”
February 11, 2004
Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, was quoted in an article about the importance of communication when working out financial issues with significant others. Chris advised that couples be honest with each other about money and discuss their spending and saving habits before getting married.

“Love Drives Retail At Valentine's Time”
February 9, 2004
Cambridge Credit tips for saving money on Valentine’s Day were cited in an article on the impact the holiday has on the retail industry. Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, was quoted on how consumers can still participate in the fun of Valentine's Day and express how much you care about your friends and loved ones without

“For Love, Not Money”
February 9, 2004
Cambridge Credit offered cost-saving suggestions in an article on how to manage spending around Valentine’s Day. Highlights included creating an overall spending budget, setting spending limits and considering home-made instead of store-bought gifts.

“The Basics: 7 reasons Americans save so little”
February 2, 2004
In an article highlighting reasons why Americans are saving less and less, Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, was quoted on the issue of consumers being lulled by easy credit. According to Cambridge Credit, education about the dangers of debt is the only long-term answer to encouraging consumers to save more in the long term.

“12 things you know about bankruptcy that aren't true”
January 30, 2004
Chris Viale, Chief Operating Officer of Cambridge Credit, contributed to an article highlighting a dozen misconceptions consumers have about bankruptcy.