Based in McLean, Va., Capital One has become one of the largest lenders in the United States in the decade since its spin-off from Signet Bank (since acquired by Wachovia). Famous for raucous commercials asking “What’s in Your Wallet?,” Capital One has beefed up its credit card offerings to include simple cash-back cards, “miles” cards and even credit-improvement cards. Capital One also operates Capital One Bank in several states as well as Capital One Direct Banking online and through various retailers like Costco.