Blockbuster Bankruptcy: What It Means for You

Quick Answer: Blockbuster’s September bankruptcy filing demonstrates that companies can use Chapter 11 as a financial restructuring tool to shed $1 billion in debt and close 500+ stores without stigma. Consumers can similarly use personal bankruptcy as a legitimate debt management strategy rather than viewing it as shameful failure.I can remember life before Blockbuster and …

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Can’t Pay Sallie Mae? Here’s What to Do

Quick Answer: Carlos owes Sallie Mae $13,989 on a loan that would cost $20,786 total to repay, and requested a $4,000 settlement due to salary cuts and potential job loss. When facing Sallie Mae payment difficulties, borrowers should explore income-driven repayment plans, deferment options, or settlement negotiations before defaulting.Carlos “Dear Steve,Sallie Mae loaned me $10,537.50 …

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TVI Corp Bankruptcy: When It Helps and Hurts

Quick Answer: TVI Corporation’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing demonstrates how even companies specializing in disaster protection can face financial ruin. The Maryland-based manufacturer previously diversified into party tent rentals before selling those assets to Karl’s Event Rental for $2.1 million in December 2008.In what struck me as a moment of irony, I read this morning …

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Value City Furniture: Is It Gone for Good?

Quick Answer: Yes, Value City Furniture is gone for good after filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy and liquidating all 66 remaining stores. The discount retailer, founded in Columbus, Ohio in 1917, cited declining consumer spending, tighter credit markets, and inability to stock merchandise profitably.Our business strategy is quite simple. We fill our stores with a wide …

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