Is there a way to rate the safety of banks? How likely they are to fail, etc. ?

...and they're having a bake sale...it might be a good time to pull out your money.

Ok sorry. I don't know. I'm wondering the same thing.

When do I start stuffing my mattress?

We're moving more money to ING accounts. I don't know if the money
is safer there, but the interest rate is relatively good.

...they are likely to ask for a taxpayer-funded bailout.

fiat currency? History says yes, they will fail.

...make that the northern and southern hemispheres. Otherwise it should be ok.

Crisis averted.

I recall reading a book a few years ago which touched on this subject.

Question: are there any good banks around? Meaning, ones that will actually SAFEGUARD their depositors' money, rather than GAMBLING their deposits in Subprime Toxic waste investments, behaving like Desperadoes at the Dog Races. Like: most of the banks.

I think the book was called "The Elliott Wave" and the author did mention a few banks which were considered to be "ultra safe" and 100% safe havens for their depositors.
The book mentions a few; I'll see if I can find it.
He also mentioned local banks in Swiss Cantons (regions) of Switzerland. However, with the latest UBS revelations, I'm not so sure about that.
He also mentioned Singapore as the ultimate safe place for your money.

That is a good start.

No problemo here!

According to BankRate.com, they have a rating system, 5 stars indicates a better performing bank than 1 star rated bank. This link shows rates for High Yield Rates at various banks for 1 yr CD. You can enter option for different rates.


http://bankrate.com/brm/rate/high_ratehome.asp?web=brm&prodtype=invest&product=15&sort=1

Just enter the name of your institution. it will give you a rating based on number of stars...5 stars is superior, the best!


http://www.bauerfinancial.com/btc_ratings.asp


edit to add another link: gives 5 different options to search.
Then select the name, city etc. from the drop-down box.
http://www.bankrate.com/brm/safesound/select.asp?insttype=0

when they start giving REALLY good rates on saving accounts, money markets, etc. Call around and ask rates and benefits, etc. Those that have really great offers need cash inflow from customers. Now remember-Credit Unions will always be higher than commercial banks so keep that in mind. And speaking of which-credit unions are a better deal anyway.

Just something I learned form experience.