Needless to say, oil producing countries are searching to trade in currencies other than the dollar and, as a result, the dollar continues to lose ground. The effect of rising oil prices will be felt once again at the corner gas station and the trickle down affect drives other prices higher and higher. Rising prices results in inflation that in turn will undoubtedly cause the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates.

What can we do to stop this snow ball effect? Use currently available technology and reduce unnecessary travel. Example: Use Skype or ooVoo for video conferencing with your clients or colleagues thus saving you time, money, use less gas and eliminate air travel and associated travel expenses, yet still achieve your business objectives. I am positive that while it will take some getting used to this "new ways of doing business", the end result is an improvement in bottom-line for you (or your company/employer) and your family & health benefits from this as well.

Ron Bregman