Posted by Chau Tu

For Marketplace, Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Uncertainty in Japan is causing the markets and many people there to panic. U.S. companies have pledged about $50 million to help with relief efforts. Some countries in Europe are beginning to rethink their nuclear strategies. Natural gas could become a strong alternative leader, but it too can have its downsides.

The Federal Reserve didn’t mention Japan in its meeting notes, but that country, along with China, are among the biggest of U.S. bond-buyers. What will happen now? Stephen Beard checked out dictators’ homes in London. Commentator Lawrence Haas talked about giving foreign aid to the Middle East. And Economy 4.0’s David Brancaccio investigated how Colorado’s dams have played into the state’s budget troubles. And here are the songs we played:

• Will There Be Stars – Blonde RedheadBuy

• Before Tigers (CFCF remix) – HEALTHBuy

• Wolves – DoshBuy

• Two Weeks – Grizzly BearBuy

• Pockets – Four TetBuy