To support their economic growth countries like China and India are aggressively moving to secure new energy streams. The US needs to have a comprehensive energy strategy, which is part of our overall national-security strategy.

It is crucial to understand that the increased use of hydrogen will support the growth of other clean energy technologies. They are both compatible and essential. With this budget request and the passage of the Energy Policy Act this past summer, we are very happy to see continuing support for hydrogen development from both the Administration and Congress.

Higher energy prices have taken their toll of hopes for top-line growth. 'Cost-cutting' as a driver of earnings is back on the radar screen.

The fundamentals for big pharmaceutical firms are fine. Cash is fine to support growth, and earnings are meeting the targets. I think investors are taking some of that for granted and ignoring it.

We did it for them. These horsemen have all moved to Sacramento. They support us year round. We needed to help them get back on their feet.

This major IT (information technology) initiative enables us to deliver the 'fuel for growth' to support the required sustainable competitive growth for the bank,