The Federal Reserve and the banking system stepped in to prevent a widespread debacle.

FORBES: Fact and Comment

Another part of the problem: Many traders, including a number of high frequency trading firms that normally make up 60% of daily trading volume, stepped aside and stopped buying, draining liquidity from the system when it was trying to deal with a tidal wave of sell orders.

FORBES: SEC Sets 6-Month Test of Stock Circuit Breakers

Republicans have stepped up criticism of the president's push for a health system overhaul, saying the president's timeline for passage is too soon.

NPR: AMA Chief: Health Bill Still In Early Stages