Even in a world of excesses, this incident seems a little bit too much. After getting a bailout package of nearly $170 billion, US insurance giant AIG gave its management almost $165 million dollars in bonuses, including $33.6 million to 52 former employees in 2008. This incident outraged many, including the Wall Street Journal, the most pro-free market newspaper in the world. Many commentators have pointed to the AIG case as emblematic of all the things that have gone wrong with the $1 trillion-plus-and-counting bailout package. What has upset many is that bonus payment is usually performance linked ad getting a bailout hardly qualifies as performance.

As you know, a 401k is a retirement savings plan. If you are nearing retirement, you are well familiar with this plan. However, if you are in your 20s or haven’t given retirement much thought until now, you may be curious about 401k investing. What should or shouldn’t you do?

DO have a 401k. If you are not participating in your employer’s 401k retirement savings program, start now. You are never too young to save for retirement. In fact, the earlier you start, the more money you should have in the end. Speak to a company representative to discuss the 401k program and your options.

DON’T make the mistake of believing that now is the time to stay away from the stock market. In fact, now is the perfect time to invest. The stock market is at a low. You can buy stocks for cheap. Most financial experts state the market will turn around and bounce back, as it always does. What does this mean for you? A profit.