But with the average rate on a savings account at 0.24 percent, on a money market account at 0.22 percent, and on a 1-year CD at 0.53 percent, nominal returns are close to zero, and real returns are negative even at relatively low rates of inflation.

FORBES: The Federal Reserve's Crony Capitalism

Hallier says Show Media is close to inking a deal with a bank that might use it to flash updated CD rates in real time.

FORBES: Take the Brand for a Ride

So you buy CD, you know, you look at it on television, but it's not up close and personal and right around the corner from your house.

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