Economics and Investing:

Jim has often sounded a warning in his commentary about the size of the derivatives market and the risk attendant to that market segment. The article below describes an expansion from the “TBTF” banks to smaller regional banks. – B.C.

Regional Banks Are Dipping Their Toes Into A Market Once Dominated By Wall Street

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Ukraine Just Issued $1 Billion Bonds Backed By The US Taxpayer. – B.B.

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Items from The Economatrix:

U.S. Wholesale Inflation Rising, But Not That Fast

Top Forecaster: Economy Not Derailed By Bad Winter

Drop In Food-Stamp Enrollment Picks Up Steam

“Robust Evidence” Confirms Fed Leaks Data Ahead Of Rate Announcements