Interesting argument from economist Daniel Gross, who suggests that the recession might teach America how to compete globally.

Quoted: A recession may be upon us, which would mean fewer jobs, declining tax revenues, and sinking consumer confidence.

Wow, it's rare to see a country actually pay off its loans to the IMF and World Bank, let alone 5 years ahead of schedule.

Quoted: President Hugo Chavez announced he would formally pull Venezuela out of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, a largely symbolic move because the nation has already paid off its debts to the lending institutions.