Marsh relies on insurance brokerage for 60% of revenue and two-thirds of operating profit (earnings excluding realized investment gains and losses and other unusual items).

FORBES: Pulling the Plug on Marsh

In other words, instead of manipulating loan-loss provisions, or gains and losses on derivatives, banks and companies might be tempted simply to change their internal assumptions as a way to smooth earnings.

ECONOMIST: Accounting

Early safe-haven buying gave way to heavy selling pressure that was due to strong gains in the U.S. dollar index, sharp losses in crude oil and other commodity markets, profit-taking pressure and weak-handed long liquidation.

FORBES: Comex Gold Ends Sharply Lower amid Stronger U.S. Dollar Index, Lower Crude Oil

Employment has continued to expand as job losses in manufacturing and residential construction have been more than offset by gains in other sectors, notably health care, leisure and hospitality, and professional and technical services, and unemployment remains low by historical standards.

NPR: Bernanke: U.S. Growth 'Moderate' as Inflation Rises