Data Dribbling

   Experts may see troublesome economic signs but don't always admit a sharp drop is on the way.
   Instead, they call it a "market correction" and insist it will be brief and of little or no consequence. Reason: If they use stronger and more accurate terms, investors and managers will cut back, thus worsening the problem.
   But no matter what politicians, academics and managers say or do, the market will fluctuate, sometimes to the point of panic selling, which often has no base of solid information.
   That's why it's called a panic.
   There is, however, one rule that is clear and generous in its application, for good or ill.
   It is the Law of Supply and Demand. Simply put, the more people want some something, the more they are willing to pay for it. That is the Law of Demand.
   Similarly, the more that stuff becomes available, sellers are willing to accept lower payment. That is the Law of Supply.
   Opposites apply in each case.
   There is, however, one factor that ignores the law.
   Greed.
   That is the factor that is driving up prices of everything from bread and eggs to automobiles and housing. Result: Consumers will pay the increase while they can, but when they cannot, demand will drop.
   As a consequence, some folks who cannot afford the higher cost -- of food, for example -- will go hungry.
  Demand drops even as supply holds steady or even rises.
  But if wealthier families can pay higher prices as their demand holds, the net income to suppliers can rise even as the quantity fades.
  Greed rules.