TowerGroup has published a new report titled 'Pointing in the Right Direction: Rethinking Card Payment Rewards in a Challenged Economy' by Brian Riley, senior research analyst in the Bank Cards practice that examines existing reward and loyalty programs and explores how credit card issuers may rework their programs to inspire customers to maintain the terms of their accounts.

Shop.org has released The State of Retailing Online 2008, its 11th annual study conducted by Forrester Research of 125 retailers. The study found that 'online retail will continue to be a bright spot in the industry with retail sales rising 17 percent this year to $204 billion. Apparel ($26.6 billion), computers ($23.9 billion), and autos ($19.3 billion) will be the largest three sales categories.'

Bank of America has announced the launch of the Bank of America Visa Supply Shelf card, 'a prepaid debit card that allows teachers to make quick, hassle-free purchases of classroom supplies. The card, ranging in value from $25 to $750, can be used at designated school supply merchants, either in their stores or from their websites.' READ MORE »

• Credit Plus Introduces PRBC Reports With FICO Expansion Score for Sharper Evaluation of Credit Risk
• Six Retailers Renew with Fifth Third Processing Solutions
• eCOST.com Announces Integration of PayPal Express Checkout
• VeriFone Introduces VeriShield Protect: Secures Consumer Card Data Even When Retailer Systems Are Breached
• USA Today CEO Forum: AmEx chief talks about credit's future