There is a terrific mess in Europe, and the attitude of the newly-elected Greek government that it must be granted debt relief is posing a massive challenge.

The price of petroleum jumped more than 8 percent today to $48.28/barrel, but our latest survey (see graph below) indicates a consensus view that it will stay around $50/barrel during the months ahead.Meanwhile, there is a terrific mess in Europe. Chances are that the eurozone will muddle through as it has in the past, although the attitude of the newly-elected Greek government that it must be granted debt relief poses a massive challenge. Some blame Germany and other large members of the EU for imposing unbearable austerity requirements on a democratic government. Others suggest th...