During that time he or she has traded down and shopped to stretch the value of their dollars.

FORBES: Uh-Oh, Even Wal-Mart Faces The Cash Strapped Consumer

Its operations stretch across all links in the natural gas value chain, with the exceptions of exploration and production.

FORBES: Three Stocks To Buy At The Edge Of The Fiscal Cliff And Mayan Calendar

Barclays, whose own bid seems like a stretch, needs to convince ABN shareholders that its deal is somehow more value-enhancing than the RBS consortium's, and perhaps plug the point that it will keep the company in one piece and in the Netherlands.

FORBES: RBS Offers Some Cash But Wants LaSalle