The country's massively hyperinflated currency will be phased out beginning next week at a rate of $5 U.S. for every 175 quadrillion Zimbabwean dollars.
With unemployment dropping, the "misery index" is at its lowest level in more than 50 years. So why aren't Americans feeling cheerful? Economists say meager wages and big debts are still problems.
Economists' forecasts for 2015 have gotten even more optimistic as oil prices have declined. Most now say inflation will remain low as hiring strengthens. That should lead to more consumer spending.