NOTE: THIS IS MY SECOND POSTING TODAY. MAKE SURE TO READ THE FIRST ONE.    
As I prepared to give you my "big picture" outlook, I came across a very recent article that took the words right out of my mouth. Since that article lines up almost perfectly with what I believe is going on, I'm just going to link you to it. It's more detailed than I would have been, but it's an accurate view of my own opinions. Enjoy. 
http://www.safehaven.com/article-11020.htm