And now for something completely different...

[--Pete]

Hi,

Investors should require a certain level of return.

'Require' and not 'demand' -- and an investor votes with his wallet.

Anyone can invest in treasuries which are widely viewed as risk free and earn a certain rate of return. Why would he accept a smaller return when more risk is involved? How is this unreasonable?

Who said anything about a smaller return? Again, keeping it simple. I make coffee for a buck a cup, all expenses included. I sell it for a buck ten. You invested a grand in my coffee shop, and I pay you a hundred bucks a year ROI. Unless you *demand* a higher ROI, why does my shop need to grow?

Taking this idea . . . we find ourselves in our current situation . . .

A truly ringing endorsement of investors and economists. A practical demonstration of the stupidity of "sustainable growth." Economists should have to take a lab course in which they establish colonies of bacteria in petri dishes and study what "sustainable growth" gives. I'd recommend nose plugs and Vick's Vapor Rub when opening those dishes after the first few days.

--Pete