Fallout: The Financial Crisis

The federal budget deficit for 2009 is projected to be three times the size it was in 2008. But one thing that amount doesn't account for is President-elect Barack Obama's stimulus plan. As Bob Moon reports, the deficit may limit what Obama can do to help the ailing economy.

Numbers released today show that November wasn't a good month for factory orders or home sales. Both fell. But there is a little bit of good news in the services sector. Bob Moon reports on the latest numbers.

The Securities and Exchange Commission came under scrutiny today at a hearing of a House committee exploring how Bernard Madoff got away with his Ponzi scheme, even after the SEC had been warned about him. Nancy Marshall Genzer reports.

President-elect Barack Obama made the rounds on Capitol Hill today to drum up support for his $750 billion stimulus package. The plan contains a big change from earlier proposals — a call for $300 billion in tax cuts. John Dimsdale reports.

Some financial experts would tell you to thank your lucky stars for the Term Auction Facility, which has helped keep the rough economy going. Janet Babin explains how by taking us for a walk on the beach.

Credit default swaps are blamed for many of last year's financial crises, including the fall of Lehman Brothers. Now federal regulators are hoping to rein in the $58 trillion market. Janet Babin reports.

President-elect Barack Obama will be on Capitol Hill today to discuss his stimulus plan, which is said to include $300 billion in tax cuts. Nancy Marshall Genzer explores what else the package would include and how.

Several factors contributed to the 2008 financial meltdown, but one of the main culprits may have been regulation, or lack thereof. Kai Ryssdal speaks with Steve Henn about the deregulatory trend and the push for more regulation that is expected to come.

The slumping U.S. steel industry is likely to be a major beneficiary of Barack Obama's stimulus plan, which focuses on improving infrastructure. Some in the industry even want a "buy American" clause in the bill. Jeremy Hobson reports.