Interesting Pointers to Start 2010

Some interesting threads that provide insight for this year:

* The FDIC is going to double its staff, adding 1600 people. It handled the closure of 150 banks in 2009. I would estimate they plan on closing at least 400 banks this year. Commercial foreclosures this year will definitely have a huge impact on the vulnerable banks. There's a current 10.6% vacancy rate.

* Foreclosures on Trulia continue to be the majority of new home listings in the areas that I track.

* The Public Pension Fund has a $2 trillion deficit and they don't use market-to-market accounting, so the assets are over-inflated and the deficit is bigger than being reported.

* Chris Dodd's retirement after over 30 years in congress is unsettling. I think it goes beyond the fact that he may not get reelected. Keep an eye to see what unfolds.

* The 'behind closed doors' health care negotiations is so contrary to our system and nonsensical that it stands out. Even more so now that the head of CSPAN has asked to be put the cameras in place to record what is happening for public view. Again, as I have said before, this seems to be a one-term president for continuing to allow this kind of behavior.