As a matter of comparison, the long-term average rate of consumer-level inflation is roughly 2.3 percent.

FORBES: Inflation: We Told You So

Sizeable enough, but that sum palls in comparison with America's long-term fiscal problem.

ECONOMIST: George Bush's tax agenda: Handing it back | The

This way, people could comparison shop before making a long-term commitment.

FORBES: Montevideo: Unprepared

But as I discussed with Evan Davis on the Today programme this morning, if you take a longer term view, the gloomy comparison with France and Germany is more nuanced.

BBC: Eurozone growth: Comparing the UK with Europe

The comparison is similar with the long-term funds.

FORBES: Better Bonding

The Nationwide conducts a straightforward monthly year-on-year comparison, although this could be affected by short-term blips.

BBC: House prices will change little in 2013, Halifax says

While Bangladesh currently supports relatively large populations of Ganges river dolphins and Irrawaddy dolphins, conservationists argue that it's crucial to address the threats they face now, while the potential for long-term survival of both species is still relatively high in comparison to other areas in Asia.

BBC: NEWS | South Asia | Bangladesh's majestic dolphins at risk

By comparison, about 63 percent have exceeded earnings forecasts, just above the long-term average.

FORBES: Obama: 'My Issues With Trump Go Back To Our Childhood In Kenya' (And Other Quotes Of The Week)