According to the Pentagon, the Army two weeks ago told commanders to purchase fewer parts, delay repairs on training equipment and postpone nonessential travel.

CNN: Pentagon says funding fight affecting war effort

Not knowing can make businesses more likely to postpone investment decisions, and individuals more likely to delay big purchases.

ECONOMIST: Ports in a storm | The

Mr. Taylor, for instance, will have to postpone planting some soybeans this spring until after the wheat is harvested, and that delay could cut into production.

WSJ: Grain Prices Soar as U.S. Slashes Outlook