Inflation is likely to ease up, but housing prices remain a cause of concern, the World Bank said, adding that interest rates need to go higher.

FORBES: World Bank Revises China GDP Forecast Upward

As an example with a low interest rate environment adding long bonds may not be appropriate when interest rates go up.

FORBES: A Hot Investment Recommendation

Some commenters suggested that home prices would fall after mortgage interest rates rose, adding further difficulties to those who might otherwise want to sell their homes and move.

FORBES: When Mortgage Rates Rise, Will Home Prices Fall?

As interest rates on Treasury securities heads higher, so do the rates on mortgages and credit cards, adding further downward pressure on American living standards and suppressing economic growth.

FORBES: An Open Letter To House Speaker John Boehner

But since interest rates cannot be sustained at current levels without adding unbearably to the budget through extra debt-servicing costs, the only hope of restoring market confidence after the election will be a far more drastic fiscal squeeze.

ECONOMIST: Brazil

Adding insult to injury is the fact that Brazil currently has its lowest interest rates in more than 50 years.

FORBES: Brazil's Star Power Dims, Economic Growth Weaker Than U.S.

Consumer confidence remains in the doldrums even after the central bank this month lowered interest rates to a record low 2.75%, adding to a string of rate-cuts since late 2011 designed to spur activity in weaker parts of the economy such as retail sales and housing.

WSJ: Australia Tops 'Better Life' List

Adding insult to injury the ECB has signaled that it will raise short-term interest rates by about as much in an effort to contain inflation.

FORBES: Eurozone Spreads Blow-Out as Focus Shifts From Athens To Lisbon

Interest rates are typically higher for investment properties should you need to refinance down the road, adding another potential headache.

FORBES: Accidental Landlords: The Next Real Estate Nightmare or Effective Housing Solutions?