Paulson and Bernanke didn't ask for $700 Billion and the unitlateral power to do what they wanted to for nothing. They are trying to prevent a financial panic if this crisis were to almost bankrupt the government eventually by shutting down the engines of business. It is no laughing or joking matter actually.
That's why some people are going for gold and silver for protection until things settle down. One can only wonder how long the markets would hold up if any more severe jolts hit the global systems.
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