The upside of deflation
In the inflation vs. deflation debate, it's pretty clear that deflation is winning. The Fed has had its liquidity foot to the floor for some time now, and instead of our economic engine revving up, the tachometer has barely budged. So whether we're facing a Japanese-style lost decade or an updated version of our own Depression, it seems as if we're in for an extended period of unpleasantness, as Lord Keynes might have put it.
But don't despair. Deflation doesn't just mean bread lines, soup kitchens and the rise of maniacs with mustaches. There can be much to love about an oomph-less economy. Here are five reasons -- some serious, some not-so-serious -- to look forward to the doldrums. (Story by InvestmentNews deputy editor Evan Cooper)