In little over a decade, the microchip has replaced the oil derrick as the driving force behind the state's economy, making Texas far less dependent on stable commodity prices.

ECONOMIST: Regional economies

We expect strong results on account of high commodity prices and stable production during the period.

FORBES: Rio Tinto: Cashing In On High Commodity Prices

Persistent relative strength in emerging economies, especially China, suggests that commodity prices will stay stable or firm.

ECONOMIST: The world economy

" Speaking via satellite from Washington to the International Monetary Conference in Barcelona, Spain, Bernanke also noted that even though the foreign exchange value of the dollar has been relatively stable in recent months, "the possibility that commodity prices will continue to rise is an important risk to the inflation forecast.

FORBES: Fed Grows Worried About Inflation