The Next Step in Cyber Banking

Got some extra cash lying around? Or maybe you need a bit of cash to make that next big purchase. Either way, there's no need to get the bank involved. Following the example of Internet-based auction houses such as eBay, a British company called Zopa has launched the world's first-ever online lending and borrowing exchange . Those with money to lend can enter the date by when they would like their money paid back, and the interest rate they would like to receive. Those who need to borrow money can expect lower fees -- there are virtually no middlemen involved -- and, as the Web site suggests, allows you to avoid profit-hungry banks. In order to build in a safety net for the lenders, the Web site spreads out money invested to at least 50 different borrowers and limit exposure to any single borrower to $385. A whole new meaning to the idea of online banking.

What is Art?

Forget snooty academics and museum eggheads. Here's a chance for you to make your own assessment of what is art or not  on this online art gallery. Not only that, you can also submit your own original work -- and whatever else you might want to parade before the cyber-critics -- and see what others think. And even if you have yet to sell a piece on your own, you may be able to turn your sketches into cash. Every two weeks, winners are announced and once a month, prize money is paid out. The project, say founders, will continue as long as users participate.

A World Beyond Terror

Friday, March 11 will mark the one-year anniversary of the violent terrorist attacks in Madrid which killed 191 people and wounded 1,900 as al-Qaida bombs ripped through rush-hour commuter trains. Church bells from over 650 churches in Spain will begin ringing at 7:37 a.m. -- the exact time the bombs began going off last year -- and five minutes of silence will be observed in front of all public buildings at noon. A number of ceremonies will also be held.