Verdict against Palestinian Authority could spell trouble for Abbas at ICC – Jerusalem Post Israel News + MORE Feb 23rd

Jerusalem Post Israel NewsVerdict against Palestinian Authority could spell trouble for Abbas at ICCJerusalem Post Israel NewsUntil now, the PA president had no personal risk going to the ICC, as the Gaza war at most, put Israel and Hamas at risk. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas attends a ceremony in Ramallah. (photo credit:REUTERS). Share on FacebookUS jury orders Palestinian groups to pay attack victims $218.5 millionReutersUS jury orders Palestinians to pay $218Press TVUS Jury Finds Palestinian Groups Liable For Terror Attacks, Awards $218.5 MillionNBCNews.comWashington Post (blog) -The Australian (blog) -Stuff.co.nzall 754 news articles »

THE CANADIAN PRESS IMAGES/Sean Kilpatrick
With the Bank of Canada’s shock January rate cut, some signs point to more borrowing by already deeply indebted households. Smaller lenders are offering rock-bottom mortgage rates that will certainly tempt more than a few people to take on more credit. Thus, at a time when house prices are sky-high, the threat of the real estate bubble growing ever larger can’t be ruled out.
Looking past the very short term, however, Canadians’ relationship with debt looks likely to change, with serious implications for the economy and monetary policy.
At the moment, low interest rates induce people to borrow. Cheap carrying costs encourage people to load up on debt, whether to take out a mortgage or buy a new car.  With regards to the housing market, many analysts cite low rates as a factor that will continue to support prices despite obvious overvaluation. So long as rates are low, the argument goes, demand for housing will remain strong.
There’s good reason to believe this view is mistaken…

One of the most difficult financial situations to overcome is bankruptcy. But what happens when you feel as though you don’t have a choice in the matter? There are times when you become so overwhelmed by your obligations that you feel as though bankruptcy is the only option… even if you would rather not take that step.
If you have a job but are unable to make all your minimum payments, let alone actually pay down the principal on your debt, you don’t have to resort to bankruptcy. A consumer proposal is a way to avoid bankruptcy and meet your obligations in a way that is manageable in the context of your current financial situation.

What is a Consumer Proposal?
A consumer proposal is an option for an individual with over $5,000 but less than $250,000 in unsecured debt. It’s also possible create a consumer proposal as a couple, as long as, together, you have less than $500,000 in unsecured debt.
Unsecured debt includes obligations like credit cards, lines of credit, loans and even unpaid income tax…

Beijing again deserves credit for keeping its currency steady.

Amex has let us know the current public offer for the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card of 20,000 Starpoints will be ending on March 31st after which it will revert to the standard 10,000 Starpoints. We just wanted to pass this along as when the offer came out it was unknown how long it would stick around. This gives you a little over a month to apply for the card and get this great bonus. Unlike some other cards the first year fee of $120 is NOT waived however the 20,000 Starpoints is worth a minimum of $400 but more like $460-$500 all depending on how you value Starpoints. This card has been ranked the #1 Hotel Credit Card in Canada for years on end here on Rewards Canada and that is with the 10,000 point bonus. So you can only figure that doubling that offer makes this card even better! Find out more or apply for the card here.Here are some highlights of what the card offers:• Earn 20,000 bonus Starpoints® after you charge $500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership…