"It is important for Europe, and to exercise whatever initiatives are possible and necessary, especially for the economy and jobs, the government remains under the authoritative leadership of Mario Monti until a new government is formed, " Napolitano said in a written statement.

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If the government is going to have a monopoly over the distribution of canned goods, it should exercise that power in a way that minimizes disruptions to the broader economy.

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"The inflation concern makes the government much more willing to exercise this tool, " said Shang-Jin Wei, Professor of Chinese Business and Economy at Columbia University.

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As a final exercise, ask yourself what all of the above have to do with earnings and the real economy.

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