In an uncertain buying climate, Dunn says, consumers still spend on casual clothes and underwear.

FORBES: Well-Tailored

That spells disaster in a market climate where B2B buying is social, transparent and trust-based.

FORBES: How Madmen Lost their Mojo

For those worried about climate change, Brazilian ethanol is worth buying only if it is as green as it claims to be.

ECONOMIST: Biofuels in Brazil

The economic climate at home has encouraged the international trend--and even with that climate changing, some experts see the buying abroad trend continuing.

FORBES: International Property Buying Guide

Most commentators remain bullish on gold and silver into 2012, given a climate of negative real interest rates, high equity risk premiums and continued buying by emerging-market central banks.

WSJ: The End of the Commodities Boom?