For the period between 2007 and 2009 people experienced dramatic declines in the market of value of stocks, mutual funds and other investments.  Then, the market began to rebound.  Based on the current state of the economy and the investment markets at the time you answer this question, do you think it is a good time to begin an investment program.  Justify your answer.

During the recent economic crisis, many financial managers and corporate officers have been criticized for (a) poor decisions,  (b) lack of ethical behavior,  (c) large salaries, (d) lucrative severance packages worth millions of dollars and (e) extravagant lifestyles.  Is this criticism justified?  Justify your opinion.

Based on what you know at the time you are answering this question, how would you describe the financial health of the U.S. economy?  Of the global economy?