Extremists gained ground in last week’s European Parliamentary elections. Violence is escalating in Ukraine. Economic inequality and political polarization are on the rise across the West.  And yet, business leaders looking for safe investment destinations are now more likely to bet on the mature economies of Europe and North America, notwithstanding the Great Recession, than on the Emerging Market darlings of prior years. Mature economies are tested and familiar. Unlike many large emerging markets, their macro-economic data and financial disclosures are considered more reliable.

Eric Shinseki's resignation won't restore trust, but it does open the door for someone who can.

The trick to making better forecasters isn't that tricky.

Once again, the financial sector is to blame.