Economy the real fear factor

For Cindy Neal, last week's stunning meltdown of a top Wall Street investment bank and continuing stock market turmoil were just the latest reminders of today's grim economic realities.

Amid a slumping housing market, the 32-year-old Santa Clarita resident recently quit her job in the real estate industry and is studying veterinary medicine. To save money with soaring gas prices, she has cut back on day care for her son, shops at less-pricey stores and has reined in spending on eating out.. Harrison Sheppard in the Daily News.

And she's watching the unfolding turbulence in the nation's financial system with a wary eye.

"It's so unpredictable to have any money in the market," she said. "I almost think it would be better to pull all your money out and put it under a mattress. At least you can't lose anything that way. ... Right now, I don't know there's any answer out there other than just try to cope."