Every barrel of oil that we produce around the world benefits Americans because it keeps prices down. We can talk more later about American energy independence, but the facts are, every barrel we produce helps Americans because it keeps prices down.

The greatest advancements in living standards over the past century have been coincident with affordable energy.

Despite some struggles of our own, America's business and economic system remains the envy of much of the world.

I believe in free markets. I believe in free trade. I believe in creating the conditions that will allow that to happen. And if we do that, American companies are going to be pretty darn competitive.

Hard work, careful planning, and realistic financial advice will be required by many to regain solvency.

Companies and capital operate internationally, often beyond the economic reach of any particular nation-state. People are pretty global, too, living lives that freely cross national borders.

The best advice that I can offer is that being proactive and a careful planner is key. Think about the major things that could shake up your financial life, and I'll bet there are some great ways to protect yourself.

I like making money, but it's a scorecard. I'm not driven by that.