This failure is often the first visible sign of financial distress in a market where SEC disclosure rules are not enforced.

FORBES: Even If A Bond Doesn't Default, You Can Still Lose Your Money

They suggest that the mere act of issuing such a security was a sign of financial distress, and thus encouraged investors to sell.

ECONOMIST: Lawyers turn their attention to ��death spiral�� bonds

Rummell said this was not a sign of a company in distress.

NPR: Housing Woes Hamper Florida Landowner

Indeed, Mr. Obama's announcement Monday that he is freezing pay for federal workers for two years to deal with the deficit is one sign of how the White House intends to position him as a leader seeking sensible compromises to deal with economic distress.

WSJ: Talks on Tax Cuts Set Stage for 2012 Campaign