How much do gas prices matter? Well, my husband and I drive fairly efficient cars, use public transit when we can, and only one of us has a daily commute. Even with all that, we still spent $400 more on gas through the end of May this year than for the same period last year. That's a 70% increase. And the auto companies wonder why SUVs aren't selling so well these days...

This week provided a clear illustration of the gap between leading edge chip producers and everyone else. Nvidia has begun the selection process for its 80 nm foundry. Meanwhile, Intel has begun high volume production at its third 65-nm facility.