The Higher the Debt Ceiling, the Deeper the Hole

When some new members of Congress recently said they oppose raising the U.S. debt limit, it triggered warnings of “catastrophic consequences.” Indeed, the result wouldn’t be pretty. But here’s what’s at stake as the country’s d…

Why Interest Rates Keep Rising, Despite QE2

The Federal Reserve is doling out billions to buy bonds in hopes of keeping interest rates low and stimulating the economy. However, several powerful forces are working against that low-rate strategy, ranging from investor psyc…

Markets Have Posted Big Gains Since the Fed Launched QE2

Republican leaders may be worried about the Federal Reserve’s second round of quantitative easing, but the stock and credit markets are delighted: They’ve improved significantly since the plan was announced. But can the rally b…

Markets Have Posted Big Gains Since the Fed Launched QE2

Republican leaders may be worried about the Federal Reserve’s second round of quantitative easing, but the stock and credit markets are delighted: They’ve improved significantly since the plan was announced. But can the rally b…

Tax Cut Compromise May Spur Bond Vigilantes Into Action

Nouriel Roubini, the NYU economics professor who has earned the nickname “Dr. Doom” for his predictions, says he’s concerned the tax cut compromise struck by President Obama and GOP leaders could expose the U.S. to bond vigila…