Pardon?

The language of financial markets continues to mystify.  The Washington Examiner has collected some statements by Federal Reserve bankers (the equivalent to our Reserve Bank), and suggests readers try to work out what they mean.

For example, what would you do with this?

He's given us five examples in all, and four multi-choice options each for meaning. Take a look!

Be plain, or be toast!

It's time to end financial jargon, says an article in Stuff today. The article - which quotes our own Lynda Harris - challenges the need for gobbledygook in financial forms, reports, and documents. Here's a sample:

If you read it thoroughly but still don't understand it, then always challenge it, says Harris. There's no need to feel stupid or intimidated.

"We're always saying to people: `You have a right to understand.' "

In other plain English-related news,  MPs are calling the Food Bill poorly drafted and confusing.