Quantum, LSI and EMC have made some recent product announcements that support big data.

FORBES: Big Data, Big Storage

For most other claims, such as reducing cellulite, firms need no government approval before marketing a product, although they are supposed to have data on hand to support their claim.

ECONOMIST: Herbal remedies

For 2007, the latest data available, Japan spent 1.3% of its gross domestic product to support needy families, compared with 1.2% for the U.S., 3.7% for France and 2.7% for Germany.

WSJ: Japan Welfare Case Stirs Debate on Who Should Care for Needy

Federal agencies have already taken steps to promote smart disclosure by unleashing their data to support creation of a range of new apps, websites, and services including product comparison websites, mobile shopping apps, and personalized dashboards that help consumers monitor their finances and energy usage.

WHITEHOUSE: Consumer.Data.Gov is Live!