sovereign debt crisis

Economically, What Happens in Europe Doesn't Stay in Europe

Sunday's elections in France and Greece were a firm vote against austerity, and regardless of the merits of either side of the debate, that means the future of the eurozone is again in doubt. Here's why the bond markets care so much -- and why you should, too.

Financial Landscape: Post-Recession Blues; Qwikster Nixed

American household incomes have fallen more since the recession ended than they fell during it, a new study reveals; EU leaders say they have a plan to solve the sovereign debt crisis; and Netflix has declared its big Qwikster plan dead on arrival.

The Financial Landscape: Gas Is Falling; Euro is Failing

Even before the International Energy Agency and the White House announced they were releasing billions of gallons or oil from fuel reserves, gas prices were falling. In the past two weeks, a gallon is down more than 11 cents. Also falling -- hopes for the euro, and the outlook for U.S. Treasury bonds.

Why the European Debt Crisis Is Far From Over

The European debt crisis is back: Portugal is in political turmoil, and may need a major bailout, and Spain may too. But the E.U.'s strong healthy are rebelling against propping up their weaker neighbors. The real issue, though, is that the E.U. hasn't yet addressed the fundamental flaw built into it at the euro's creation.

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 psychology to global competition for capital.

Best and Worst Global Stock Markets of 2010

The big winners of 2010 scored returns far above those of U.S. markets by piggybacking on China's ferocious growth. But rebounding American equities look mighty impressive next to the year's real losers: the victims of the eurozone debt crisis.

Ireland's Austerity Budget:
Not Likely to Avoid Default

Simply put, the losses Irish taxpayers will be forced to cover are larger than the nation's economy can support, even with the promised bailout. The EU and Irish political leadership's attempts to put a brave face on the crisis is no match for this crippling burden.

Eurozone Growth Slows as Austerity Takes Its Toll

Economic performance among EU nations is getting more divergent. While Germany and France continue to modestly expand, debt-plagued countries like Greece are shrinking. That makes it tough for the European Central Bank to set its monetary policy.

Buffett Warns That Euro Faces a 'Real Challenge'

The euro has posted its biggest quarterly gain in eight years, but billionaire investment guru Warren Buffett is worried about Europe's common currency. Despite the E.U.'s trillion-dollar bailout fund, he's not sure the Continent will be able to avert a sovereign debt meltdown.

Safe Haven No More: Swiss Franc Headed for Trouble

The Swiss franc has been a top currency over the past six months, outpacing the dollar by 8.9% and the euro by 7.8%, thanks to shaky conditions in Europe. But some signs suggest the Swiss currency is due for a correction.

Europe's Debt Crisis: Here We Go Again?

Europe's shakiest economies managed to ride out a sovereign debt crisis this spring with a lot of help from their more stable neighbors and the major central banks. But new data suggests we may soon see a replay of the debt default crisis.

Were the European Bank Stress Tests Too Easy?

Banking regulators tested the soundness of 91 European banks this week to see if they could withstand a financial crisis, and only seven failed to pass muster. But some analysts say the tests may have been too easy, and wonder what would happen if a real "worst-case scenario" hit.

Greece Under Attack From the Bond Vigilantes

As the bond vigilantes attack Greece's economy, and set their sights on other debt-plagued nations, European Union officials are preparing an emergency stabilization package to resolve the sovereign debt crisis. But unless the world's central banks get involved too, the EU moves won't be enough.