After 20 years of sinking deeper and deeper into dependence on foreign oil, the United States reversed that trend last year.

FORBES: The Next American Oil Boom?

Europe is sinking deeper into recession and has massive structural problems.

FORBES: Fiscal Cliff Negotiations Stall; Jobs Report better than Expected

The deal will lift GMAC's ratings above parent GM's, which have been sinking deeper into junk territory in light of ongoing accounting issues and the possible hit from labor unrest at Delphi.

FORBES: Still In The Junkyard