Articles by Simon Zhen

Simon Zhen is the chief research analyst for MyBankTracker and an expert on consumer banking products, bank innovations, and financial technology. Simon has contributed and/or been quoted in major publications and outlets including Consumer Reports, American Banker, Yahoo Finance, U.S. News - World Report, The Huffington Post, Business Insider, Lifehacker, and AOL.com. Education: Education: B.S. in Health Sciences from Stony Brook University.

Is the Sallie Mae Smart Option Loan Really A Smart Option? Student loans are increasingly becoming a necessity for college students. The Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan paints itself as the best solution. What to Do If Your HELOC Is Frozen or Reduced? Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen What to Do If Your HELOC Is Frozen or Reduced? A home equity line of credit (HELOC) offers borrowers convenient access to a... Bank of America Charges a Check Image Fee on Paper Statements Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Bank of America Charges a Check Image Fee on Paper Statements You may be surprised with an extra fee if you receive images of cancelled check on... Cashier’s Check, Money Order and Personal Check: Which One Clears the Fastest? Cashier's checks, personal check and money orders may clear the bank at different times. See how many days it takes for these funds to become available. Which Banks Are Open on Sunday? Find out which banks in U.S. are open for business on Sunday, a day on which most financial institutions are closed. Learn other ways to manage your accounts. The Best Business Credit Cards for Travel in 2024 Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen The Best Business Credit Cards for Travel in 2024 If you’re traveling often for business purposes, it makes sense to take a look at... Why a Savings Account Remains Important in Your 40s Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Why a Savings Account Remains Important in Your 40s For many Americans, they hit the prime of their financial lives in their 40s.... Gainbridge FastBreak Annuity 2024 Review Our review of the Gainbridge FastBreak annuity product looks at the potential returns, fees, and flexibility for medium- to long-term savers. Banking Predictions for 2024: Overdraft Changes, More Crypto, Savings Accounts In the 2024 edition of MyBankTracker's Banking predictions, we look at the possible trends for the banking industry and how they could affect consumer finances. New Hybrid Investments: Balance of Safety and Higher Returns Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen New Hybrid Investments: Balance of Safety and Higher Returns In the vast market of financial vehicles available to the average consumer,...