Economics and Investing:

Reader H.L. mentioned another good reason to keep plenty of greenback cash on hand, for emergencies: Sandy Price Gouging Probed: $7 Loaf of Bread, $10 Box of Matches. [JWR Adds: The truth is that in a free market there is no such thing as “gouging”–just willing sellers, willing buyers and a floating free market price. Large demand, short supply, and minimal opportunities to restock necessitate higher prices. The state Attorney General might just as well attempt to hand out speeding tickets at the Indy 500. But of course, be charitable in disasters.]

At Fierce Finance: New York’s Financial district creaks back to life

Cash-free Greek communities take off while economy collapses

Last Jobs Report Before Election Shows Economy In Virtual Standstill

Items from The Economatrix:

Consumer Spending Picks Up, But Savings A Worry

Why Germany Wants To See Its US Gold

News Not Revealing Real Reasons For Economic Collapse

Global Economic Crisis:  EU’s Jobless Rate Hits New High Of 11.6%

Chinese Financial System On The Brink Of Collapse