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We believe that the problems associated with government indebtedness are more serious than on previous occasions when government debt was at similar levels because of poor demographics; the extent of private sector leverage; the global nature of the recession; independent central banks and the absence of capital controls, which make it more difficult to "inflate" away debt.

Deutsche Bank researchers examine the impact of speculative trading on the price of crude oil, based on variables in weekly market reports from the U.S. Commodities Futures Trading Commission and econometric procedures. Researchers conclude that speculators' dispersion in beliefs, not their activities, drive crude oil prices.

The dollar's value is one vital sign of the health of the U.S. economy vis-à-vis other economies as it reflects expectations about inflation and interest rates. Therefore, tracking and understanding the dollar and other currencies is key to understanding the investment environment, says this paper from Rockefeller & Co. Inc.

The financial crisis has altered the investment landscape for investment managers as well as for investors. This paper from BNY Mellon looks at the results, such as increased regulatory oversight and demands for greater transparency.

It is clear that affluent women today are involved, aware and knowledgeable about their wealth and wealth management. Indeed, more women are overcoming inherent obstacles and stereotypes by reaching out for additional financial knowledge and engaging experts as well as spouses to aid them in making prudent wealth management decisions.

While men continue to play a leadership role in their families when it comes to wealth management planning and decision-making, a growing number are inclined to discuss the family wealth and wealth transfer intentions with not only their spouses but also their heirs. Research indicates wealth-related decision-making is now a shared responsibility in more than 50 percent of households.

Of all the possible sources of inflation, a rise in commodity prices is the greatest threat. A separate threat also exists in the form of rising real interest rates. An ideal portfolio hedge is one that should do well in both environments but still is expected to generate an attractive rate of return in a normal economic environment.

This comprehensive research report sizes up current and future economic activity and the outlook for inflation in seven major regions of the world and then examines in detail the implications for investments in equities, fixed income, currencies, commodities and real estate globally.

While the global economy picked up again in the third quarter, economists remain divided about the nature of the recovery and, thus, the best course of action for policymakers. This research report looks at the arguments behind the debate.

Critical to the future success of wealth advisors is a solid understanding of how, and to what degree, the meltdown in financial markets affected investor attitudes, behaviors and needs. Rothstein Kass' Business Consulting Group assesses changes and their implications for other planning disciplines, such as philanthropy, wealth transfer and tax management.