This is nearly impossible given the variability of demand (at the mercy of fuel prices and the economy) and the limited control train operators have over costs, which continue to rise steadily.

ECONOMIST: Another humiliation for the government

The Hang Seng Index was down 0.2% at 20694.70, but reversing earlier losses due to the strong performances of local developers, which continued to outperform on expectations that housing prices could continue to rise due to quantitative easing increasing liquidity.

WSJ: Asian Shares Down As Europe, China In Focus; Euro Falls

Investors continue to cast a watchful eye over European bond markets, which have seen borrowing costs rise sharply over the past month.

FORBES: Stocks Cool Off But Bull Still Breathing

Thus Advantage will become the only entitlement for which real spending will fall slightly year over year and continue to decline, even as health costs rise and more people join the program.

WSJ: Review & Outlook: About That 'Scalpel' . . .