The PIGS

Sometimes an acronym can exacerbate a problem.  I believe this is the case for the newly anointed European PIGS: Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Spain.  This group of countries, all part of the European Union have huge budget deficits weighing down on there economies which have not recovered from last year's economic meltdown.  Speculation is starting to spread that at least one of them could default on their loans as it is becoming harder and much more costly for them to borrow.  Combine this with the fear that Germany, currently the EU's strongest and most robust economy will not intervene if or when they do.

While an acronym should have no influence on investors and their investing decisions, I don't believe that is the case here.  Perception is as important as ever as the world economy tries to rebound from the worst recession in decades.  Most governments have tried to spend their way into growth which has greatly helped but what happens when they can no longer borrow?  Greece is in the worst shape of them all. But unfortunately for the "IGS" they will all be discussed whenever a conversation touches on Europe's troubles. It is just too catchy of an acronym for the pundits to resist.