(MONEY Magazine) – Plotting out the month ahead in the strictest financial terms

HIGH REWARD/HIGH RISK

REGIFTING Upside: Cheapest way to share the holiday spirit Downside: You'll feel even cheaper if caught.

LOW REWARD/HIGH RISK

OFFICE HOLIDAY PARTY Upside: Good chance to shmooze Downside: You said what to the boss?

LOW REWARD/LOW RISK

BLACK MARKET TMX ELMO Upside: You're a hero parent (briefly). Downside: $70 for a toy that starts gathering dust Jan. 1

HIGH REWARD/LOW RISK

1- TO 5-YEAR CDS Upside: Risk-free yields of 5%-plus Downside: Rates could rise, but it's not likely (see page 116).