brokerages

Financial markets declined early Monday after congressional leaders said they are poised to pass a $700 billion rescue plan for banks, brokerages, credit unions, thrifts and insurance companies.

Investors reacted coolly after congressional leaders said they are poised to pass a $700 billion rescue plan for banks, brokerages, credit unions, thrifts and insurance companies.

Financial markets were subdued in early trading Sunday night after congressional leaders said they are poised to pass a $700 billion rescue plan for banks, brokerages, credit unions, thrifts and insurance companies.

Lehman Brothers may find itself on more secure ground, but its poor showing in the second quarter has undermined confidence in banks and brokerages and left investors wondering what to believe about the state of the credit crisis.

For Kim Snider, it only takes one word to send participants in her monthly investment workshops into a near panic.

The Dallas-based financial adviser gets the same reaction, without fail, every time she suggests using options as a way to protect stock portfolios and make money.