Economics and Investing:

Reader Mike M. sent us a Porkchop Express report on some Big Trouble From Big China: Smithfield Foods, the world’s largest pork producer, is being bought by Shuanghui–at $5 billion, this is the largest-ever planned buyout of an American company by China.

Curious… IRS’s Shulman had more public White House visits than any Cabinet member 157 visits! Apparently the White House had some deep concern about taxes. Perhaps BHO felt deep anguish about assuring tax fairness, or…?

Chart of the Day: Euro Unemployment Hits Its Worst Level Ever

All Time Record Gold Transactions Reported By LBMA

Items from The Economatrix:

Five Signs of an Imminent Gold and Silver Rally

Consumer Confidence at Five Year High

Home Prices Post Strongest Gains in Seven Years. JWR’s Comment: It is amazing what tripling the money supply will do to boost prices. But please don’t call these “gains” in value.