Realistically, a 5% tax rise should prompt a 5% spending cut, with the earning power lost to inflation adding more belt tightening. You can't squeeze blood from a stone. Workers have no money.

Russian tanks, planes, and troops are reportedly crossing the border with eastern Ukraine after the referendum there which violated the terms of the truce between Ukraine and Russia.

As the stock market slumps, gold's unique appeal stands out again, Gold has risen nearly 4% so far this month. Major world stock markets have dropped up to 10%

It was a tough week for investors outside the US mainly because of currency factors. A combination of low Euro-land interest rates, fear of Scottish secession, and political uncertainty aborad led to a boost in the US dollar which made all non-dollar investments sag.

Today I answer some readers questions, have a note about the Holy Ghost at The Mouth of Hell, a stock downrating, and news from China, Israel, Mongolia, Canada, Britain, and fund updates.

Cosan reported Q2 results selectively, claiming that Raisen Energia sales of fuel rose 16% to Reais 478 mn and that Comgas distribution network added 10% to its client base.