Here is an info graph from Visualizing Economics (back from 2008), showing the average income in the U.S from 1913-2006. The graphic factors in major events in history as well as the presidents at the time. Something the graph is missing appears to be inflation. However, its pretty cool comparison.

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Check out this info graphic from Perceptual Edge. The graphic presents the outrageous spending and the cost of the Iraq war. Money wasted and added to our deficit.

Thoughts from Ritholtz “Whenever I hear a a congress critter discussing deficit spending, the first thing I do is check their vote on the Iraq war to see if they are legitimately concerned about deficits, or not. … You will find most of these born again deficit hawks are hypocritical partisan hacks . . .”

“Deficit hawk or Hypocrite? You decide:”
• Iraq War Resolution, Roll Call Vote – House (clerk.house.gov)
• Iraq War Resolution, Roll Call Vote – Senate (senate.gov)
Sources:

www.ritholtz.com/blog/2011/01/the-three-trillion-dollar-war-2/
Perceptual Edge

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Check out this informational chart from VisualEconomics. It’s a very interesting look into an average American family’s finances. Why are they in this mess? What are your thoughts?

Source: www.visualeconomics.com

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The Euro fell to $1.326, a one year low against the dollar on concerns of Greek’s debt problems. Moody cut Greece’s sovereign rating and hinted at possible downgrades to come.  Short term bridge loans to Greece may help stabilize the decline of the Euro.

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The U.S Dollar Index has risen to its highest level since the beginning of November. As gold tops all the headlines, the U.S Dollar is positioning its self as the underdog ready for a comeback! The question is not “will the dollar comeback?” the question is “when will the dollar comeback?”

Observing the 50-day moving average, indications are the dollar has reached its bottom or its low range, given no one can ever call a bottom until it has passed (or unless you have time machine!). The dollar has closed above its 50-day moving average for three consecutive days. March was the last time that happened.

Yes, technical indicators can be misleading. However, you can’t deny the strength the dollar has gained in the short term!

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Oil on Friday declined more than 2.5% to about $76 a barrel as fears mount about the possible defaults in Dubai financial markets. Adding to the pressure was the boosted demand for the U.S. Dollar. However, Dubai’s recent news only indirectly contributed to the decline. Crude oil has been sinking since it peaked at $82 a barrel in early November. A large inventory in the U.S and discouraging economic data is more to blame for the decline.

Additionally, the market was trading at low volumes that could have exaggerated prices!

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