Economics and Investing:

SurvivalBlog’s Poet Laureate George Gordon (“G.G”) flagged this article by veteran prepper/economist Howard J. Ruff: Gold and Silver Insurance

Also from G.G.: Italy Banning Cash Transactions Over €5,000 As Latest European Austerity Package Revealed

One more from G.G.: Number of the Week: 75% Chance of Greek Default

Moody’s Reiterates U.S. Spending Risks Credit Rating

Jim D. suggested this article by Mish Shedlock that illustrates the incredible depth of California’s budget crisis: California to borrow next 20 years worth of bottle returns.

Items from The Economatrix:

Falling Home Prices Stir Fears of New Bottom

Consumer Confidence Up Again

Factory Orders And New-Home Sales Rise in April

Oil Prices Jump 4% After 3-Week Slump