In the deal, Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE: FCX) will also acquire Plains Exploration, which is a big holder of MMR shares that it received when selling Moffett its portfolio of shallow Gulf acreage a few years back.

FORBES: Freeport-McMoRan Rescues McMoRan Exploration In $20 Billion Gulf Of Mexico Deal

At dawn today I went outside and put my big flag in its holder, feeling a sudden wave of emotion.

FORBES: Raising The Flag For An Old Vet Today

It allows the holder to block big acquisitions, mergers or break-ups, but not much else.

ECONOMIST: Russian oil

Skilful use of data allows companies both to spot which customers are worth fighting for (the frequent flier, the account holder with a big loan and a regular job) and then to offer them hefty discounts, to reduce the risk that a competitor will poach them.

ECONOMIST: Managing customers

"Banks are not too big to jail, " Mr. Holder said.

WSJ: Lawmakers Press Eric Holder on AP, IRS

As an economy, China is the biggest holder of gold out of the big four emerging markets: Brazil, Russia and India.

FORBES: China's National Gold Digger Sees Sales Rise

"There's a big job to do, and it's going to be Mr. Holder's duty to turn this department around and restore its credibility, " said Sen.

CNN: Holder becomes attorney general

Just last week US Attorney General Eric Holder gave his reasons for the lack of prosecution saying the hesitation to go after big banks is partially out of concern that doing so could hurt the economy.

FORBES: Is The FDIC Protecting Banks From Bad Press?