The Texas economy:
The widespread economic downturn of the past decade was marked by job loss and decreased consumer spending nationwide. Additionally, many parts of the economy are undergoing massive changes as new business types emerge and mature. The quest for the "next big thing" in tech brings many to a major event in Texas each year.

Historically, the state of Texas has gone through periods of boom and bust primarily related to fluctuations in the price of___________ . The attempts made to diversify the state's economy have helped maintain area real estate values and financial fortunes in a time of international economic tumult.