SmartMoney (1-year) Reviews



Amazon.com Customer Reviews

Must Already Have Money for Smart Money - Review written on September 02, 2008
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Rating: 2 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 1 did not.

Overall this is a very average financial magazine. I rated it with a two star mainly because many of the articles just did not provide any value to me. That is not to say that others will not find valueable articles. The magazine seems to cater more towards the reader that already has a large sum of money. Unfortunenately, I just do not need articles on why I should chose the BMW6 over the Mercedes S-Class and the Audi A5.
Wanted something a little more technical - Review written on June 22, 2008
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Rating: 4 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful.

I felt that smart money was a little too dumbed down. I was looking for a personal finance magazine that strongly backed their suggestions with well thought out, detailed, explanations.

I choose Kiplinger's over SmartMoney after reading both for a year.
Over Promise, Under Deliver - Review written on May 24, 2008
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Rating: 2 out of 5
5 customers found this review helpful.

This is a slick and beautifully composed magazine. However, the attractiveness of the composition does not make up for the lack of depth in content. I find the articles full of fluff and miss the mark as compared to alternatives in the personal finance area. I recommend that readers compare other choices before subscribing.Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine
Magazine great, Amazon Not So Much - Review written on May 09, 2008
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Rating: 4 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful, 3 did not.

I subscribed to this magazine based upon multiple sources recommending it. I had been buying it on the newstand so I know it is a useful mag. Amazon, however, it not the place to order magazines. Once you order you cannot cancel the order. Amazon refers you to the publisher (and good luck finding a source for that contact that doesn't require snail mail).

As of middle of May still not magazine in the mail...so now I am not even sure the subscription was processed. If the direct from publisher deal costs a couple of dollars more it is will worth it to avoid the hassle of using Amazon as the middle man. I was shocked because the customer service I normally receive from Amazon is excellent.
Ouch!!! - Review written on May 03, 2008
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Rating: 1 out of 5
4 customers found this review helpful, 9 did not.

I've subscribed to Smart Money for the last three years. Just received an "Important SUBSCRIBER Notice" advising me that they were automatically extending my subscription into the future ad nauseum. "No more renewals to send back. No postage to pay. No more paperwork -- we take care of all the deatails for you by remewing your subscription automatically each year unless you tell us to stop."

Needless to say, I've notified them to stop. I wish I had never subscribed.
Great Magazine - Review written on April 28, 2008
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Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful.

Smart Money is a great fit for the average person who craves investment information, but doesn't feel the need to spend a lot of money on the "Big Boys" like the Wall Street Journal or Barron's.

I read Barron's as well and while it's a fabulous publication, most everyday folks don't want to spend $180 for a year's subscription. At $18 for 24 issues of Smart Money, you really can't go wrong. Seriously- that's $0.75 per issue! If you can't find that much value between the covers of this magazine, you just aren't trying.

Some say that a monthly magazine can't keep up with today's markets and for day traders I might agree. However, the content of this mag is focused on *investing* not *trading* and for the majority of us who are worried about our retirements, there's a lot of great info to be had here.
Magazine subscription - Review written on March 13, 2008
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Rating: 5 out of 5
3 customers found this review not to be helpful.
It's nothing wrong with the product. However the problem is about buying magazine with this site, cause you will not get every issue, may be just 6-7 issues. I had read same comment before I bought it last year but I didn't think anything. It's a lot cheaper to buy form here that buy from the magazine publisher itself. Nothing wrong with book. Just want you to rethink before you subscript.
Provides great investments leads, and well-written articles - Review written on February 17, 2008
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Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful.

I have purchased shares of companies from Smart Money articles, but most importantly, it provides leads & insight. For example, they recently wrote about an Agriculture company, and while doing my due diligence I ended up buying one of their competitors that I felt had more potential. I've recommended Smart Money to other, and even given it as a gift for my father. Everyone has liked it so far.
still waiting for 1st issue.. - Review written on February 16, 2008
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Rating: 3 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 4 did not.

I received 2 issues in my dead mother's name.....can't figure that out...she's been gone 2 years.
I ordered Dec 4th, today is Feb 16th, still no Smart Money in my name???
Smart Money - Review written on February 10, 2008
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Rating: 4 out of 5
5 customers found this review not to be helpful.
Not a bad magazine. I haven't really had the chance to explore all of the articles yet.
Have not yet received first issue - Review written on January 07, 2008
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Rating: 1 out of 5
9 customers found this review not to be helpful.
I have not yet received the first issue - I ordered this on 12/4/07 and it is now 1/7/07.
smart money magazine subscription - Review written on January 02, 2008
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Rating: 1 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 8 did not.

ordered on 11/24/07 and have not gotten any issues as of yet. Seems rather long to wait for the 2-year subscription to begin.
Not A fan - Review written on December 16, 2007
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Rating: 2 out of 5
3 customers found this review helpful.

I am a longtime investor who hasn't always done so well with the picks in Smart Money. I do enjoy the graphics, the page layout and the colorful covers, however.

But if you're looking for strongf advice, you may do better elsewhere.
Solid long-term financial and investing advice - Review written on November 25, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
6 customers found this review helpful.

I'm a long-term subscriber. SMART MONEY offers solid, useful long-term financial and investing advice each month from the resources of the Wall St. Journal without the fluff in some other financial magazines.
Decent Magazine - Review written on November 19, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
4 customers found this review helpful.

Good Magazine
Alot of stuff the articles (mainly personal saving and investing tips)mentioned is common sense and there is similar things you can find on the internet for free. But overall a helpfully magazine.
quick and Easy - Review written on October 24, 2007
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Rating: 3 out of 5
4 customers found this review helpful.

I like this magazine because it has a lot of short, concise and easy to read articles. I am no financial genius but I do like to read about what is going on. I also like any and all pointers/education I can get my hands on. The biggest downside to Smartmoney is that it's full of advertisements. But for the subscription price, I can easily accept them all.
Received very quick! - Review written on October 24, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 3 did not.

This magazine is very useful and contains lots of advise. I received it in the time that was stated.
smart money magazine - Review written on October 24, 2007
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Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 2 did not.

I knew about the product and the magazine came in record time. No 2 month wait or longer.
never got first copy! - Review written on September 27, 2007
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Rating: 1 out of 5
3 customers found this review helpful, 9 did not.

I purchased this exactly a month ago and haven't received a copy to date! They did however manage to bill me within two days! I know I was warned about his by other reviewers when I made the purchase, but that doesn't excuse the fact of poor service. --cb, Patchogue, NY
Pleased with the ease but waiting to see 1st issue - Review written on August 27, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 9 did not.

It was very easy and convenient. The price was excellent. However, I won't know if I will receive it for up to two months.
good one... - Review written on August 23, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
3 customers found this review helpful, 2 did not.

These articles are very valuable. you might think the information on the magazine is same as that is on the website.. but NO.. not all the articles are published on the website. Ones that are published are published much much later than after publishing in the magazine.
I love the magazine. as in any other mag, there are lot of ads. but what can u do??
SmartMoney is a smart buy - Review written on August 16, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
5 customers found this review helpful.

Quality magazine for people interested in saving and investing. This magazine doesn't get too complicated so it is good for novices. The topics are timely and well written.
Smart Money Combines Business and Personal Finance - Review written on July 12, 2007
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Rating: 4 out of 5
17 customers found this review helpful.

Smart Money is a solid magazine about business and finance and I have been reading it on and off again for the past five years. This magazine is a little bit big business and a little bit personal finance, combining together the features of a business magazine with that of an investment publication.

One of the main things I like about Smart Money is the fact that it includes so many different articles each month. There are only a few regular departments in this magazine. The majority of the pages include featured articles and short articles that change from month to month. These articles can cover a wide range of topics from ways to cut your electric bill to the latest regulations in the insurance industry.

Smart Money is an intelligent magazine and its articles are often a little more advanced than those of other financial publications. They don't reach a level that is too advanced to make them incapable of understanding, and that is good. But they are certainly intended for the savvier investor who already knows the ropes and wants some more specific, intermediate to advanced advice on personal finance and corporate happenings.

Overall, I rank Smart Money as a very good personal finance magazine and it is one I will continue to read when I get the chance. It is like a combination of Fortune and Money magazines and its timely articles are often very interesting and helpful. Whether it's an article on reducing your cell phone bill or an article about the profit picture in the oil business, Smart Money is certain to inform and enlighten.

Smart Money reveiw - Review written on February 28, 2007
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Rating: 3 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 14 did not.

One issue is all I have to work with! The magazine is just ok, I would have prefered to have MONEY magazine but it was not offered. Perhaps further issues will impress me?
Great Resource - Review written on February 08, 2007
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Rating: 5 out of 5
5 customers found this review helpful, 2 did not.

I have been reading SM for about 3 years now. I have it in rotation with Money, Black Enterprise, Kiplingers, Forbes and Fortune. I only recently officially subscribed. With anything investing/finance related, you need to do your homework. It has given me great tips and information I've further investigated to make my own decisions. I will remain a customer and will be sending gift subscriptions to my Mom, sisters and brother.
insightful but limited - Review written on January 09, 2007
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Rating: 3 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful, 10 did not.

not as broad or specefic in analysis. uses commentary and editorial type format for a large portion.
PLEEEEEEEEEEESE DELIVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Review written on August 09, 2006
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Rating: 1 out of 5
8 customers found this review helpful, 41 did not.

IT HAS BEEN SEVERAL WEEKS AND STILL NO MAGAZINE FROM MONEY!!!!OH YEAH BUT THEY DID REMEMBER TO BILL MY CREDIT CARD IN A TIMELY FASHION....MAYBE WHEN SOMETHING TAKES OVER A MONTH YOU SHOULD BILL THE PERSON WHEN U SHIP THE PRODUCT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For $1 per issue you can't go wrong - Review written on February 04, 2006
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Rating: 5 out of 5
17 customers found this review helpful, 2 did not.

I have been a Smart Money subscriber for over three years. I must say that each month I look forward to receiving the new issue. It needs to be said (to those who aren't aware) that this is a publication of the Wall Street Journal. There isn't as much market news but the writing is just as good. From undervalued stock picks, to mutual fund screening and research, finding cheap bottles of good wine, car ratings, retirement planning and portfolio health - this magazine hits on many important topics for people in their working years. I find the writing to be accurate and insightful. I would still be a subscriber if the subscription was $3 per issue. That's the true value I find in it. Hands down it's the best personal finance magazine around. Head and shoulders above Money & Kiplingers.
More Ads than useful content - Review written on November 08, 2005
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Rating: 2 out of 5
30 customers found this review helpful, 26 did not.

Nice cover pictures and headlines, but way too many ads. There's a reason its only twelve bucks, this is an ad-sponsored mag.
Pick this one - Review written on August 15, 2005
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Rating: 5 out of 5
7 customers found this review helpful, 25 did not.

Most magazimes half of their pages is advertizmet, this one have something to say and did make me some money when i used their top 10 stock picks for next year, that was January 99, the semiconductor boom, all 10 out of 10.
Ideas on investing at a nice price. - Review written on May 04, 2005
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Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful, 40 did not.

Put away some cash in mutual funds for retirement.
Ideas on current investment thinking (even if it's
often good to be contrarian and do the opposite
of what they recommend).
Better than I had imagined! - Review written on February 18, 2004
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Rating: 4 out of 5
32 customers found this review helpful, 2 did not.

I purchased a value-package of this magazine and Kiplinger's, and I've been thrilled with both. About 20% of the articles and info are over my head, but the balance is understandable, helpful, and easily applied to my average money management skills. I've since ordered a SmartMoney subscription for three friends and relatives!
Good magazine, very poor customer service - Review written on February 10, 2004
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Rating: 2 out of 5
143 customers found this review helpful, 14 did not.

I have subscriptions to Forbes, Smart Money, Money and Fortune. Out of all 4, i like Forbes and Fortune the most, because they seem to give details also on the backgrounds of the companies they are presenting as good buys. Even if Smart Money is not as good as these magazines, it is still well worth the money and provides a cheaper alternative to the beginner investor.

My main problem with Smart Money was not their writing, but their way of doing business. I made a one year subscription through Amazon and i was supposed to get the March issue as the first issue (in February). Well, i received this issue, but with it i was also sent the January and February issues (published in December of last year and January of this year). The complaints i made to their customer service department - for this cheap method they used to shorten my one year subscription by 2 months - were left with no answer. I know many magazines take advantage of their readers by sending them an older issue with the new one, but Smart Money takes the crown, sending me issues published last year!

Overall, if you can go past this, this magazine can be worth getting, especially for beginner investors. Otherwise, get Forbes or Fortune.

An update: I also e-mailed Amazon about this problem and - to their merit - they solved it immediately. While Smart Money still hasn't replied to my original e-mail, once Amazon contacted them, they added 2 more issues to my subscription. Big thanks goes again to the exceptional customer service from Amazon!

The Benchmark for Financial Magazines - Review written on February 06, 2004
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Rating: 5 out of 5
16 customers found this review helpful, 3 did not.

Simply the best -- this magazine is very well laid out- not busy like Money seems to be, has some intermediate technical analysis, covers a great range of financial issues including new stock pics (performance of which which they track over time), mutual funds, financial managers/discount and full service broker comparisons, bonds, tax and retirement issues, travel, just the right amount (minimal) of tech product reviews, and a monthly car review/comparison.

I appreciate the focus on bargain hunting, both in stocks and the other areas mentioned above. These guys are not stock pumpers, but value seekers!

SmartMoney - Review written on October 06, 2003
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Rating: 5 out of 5
10 customers found this review helpful, 10 did not.

Great financial analysis, insight and tips. Smarter than Money or Kiplinger's......