The drop reflected a steep decline in commercial aircraft demand and little growth in orders that signal future business investment.

NPR: Orders For US Durable Goods Fall 5.7 Pct. In March

In the report, we produce data that suggests a peak of global oil production at less than 95 million barrels a day, up from some 85 million now, and we summarize fears that could result in a peak of less than 92 million, plus a steep fall beyond the peak, all at a time when demand is rising well in excess of 100 million barrels a day.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Retailers were burned in 2008 when consumer demand dropped sharply after holiday inventory orders were placed, resulting in steep pricing discounts in order to move merchandise.

FORBES: Retail inventories increase amid modest holiday sales views

It has to, since softening demand from the U.S. military for its ground vehicles has combined with steep cuts in British defense spending to create a hole in future revenue projections that must be filled.

FORBES: British-Based BAE Systems Shifts U.S. Strategy

Demand for gold in India, the world's largest consumer, has increased lately following a steep fall in its price, which hit a two-year low globally in mid-April.

WSJ: India Trade Deficit Widens

Manufacturers, hit by slowing export demand due to the global slowdown and the euro's weakness against the pound, reported a particularly steep drop in new orders.

BBC: UK business confidence slumps