A. Long-term Ginnie Mae funds could suffer a big price decline as interest rates rise. Short-term Ginnie Mae’s don’t involve that price risk. But still for maximum safety, I recommend short-term Treasury bills. (See also my answer to the next question.) HSBC and Bank Safety Q. I bank with HSBC, both here and in Panama. I know that HSBC has a horrendous leverage due to derivatives, but nowhere can I find a rating on them. Should I be seeking a safer bank? A. HSBC America is rated D+ (“weak”), but we do not have a rating on other HSBC companies. In any case, the safest place for your money is a Treasury-only money market fund or 13-week Treasury bills bought directly at www.TreasuryDirect.gov. You will still need a local bank for transfers and other business. But with the overwhelming bulk of your money in Treasuries, you can sleep nights. Q. I heard about a list of weakest and strongest banks you maintain. Can you tell me where to find it? Click here for the weakest banks, and click her