Several readers pointed us to this New York Times article: A Secretive Banking Elite Rules Trading in Derivatives [1]
Patron Mark mentioned some commentary about the debt problems in blue states [2] that makes a compelling case that severe hard times are inevitable.
Cheryl N. sent this: Why Use Gold As Money? [3]
Social Security advocates fear payroll tax cut [4]. (Thanks to Sue C. for the link.)
Bram flagged this news item: Australia Overhauls Banking Rules [5]