Economics and Investing:

The Other Jim R. was the first of several readers to alert us to this article: We’re Screwed! ShadowStats.com founder John Williams explains the risk of hyperinflation. Worst-case scenario? Rioting in the streets and devolution to a bartering system. [Gee, what blog has Mr. Williams been reading?]

YRC Has Until Yearend to Corral Bondholders, Avert Bankruptcy.

Items from The Economatrix:

Retailers Slash Prices After Christmas

Shoppers Return to Malls, Looking for Deals

Stores Hope Gift Cards Will Give Post-Christmas Lift

Credit Crunch: Home Equity Lending Evaporates

China Closer to Becoming World’s Second Largest Economy

US Removes Caps on Fannie, Freddie Lifelines for Three Years. This means unlimited funds to failed mortgage giants.

Treasury Yield Curve Steepens to Record on Debt Demand Concern