Alan Greenspan thinks it's okay to move markets again - some 15 months after retiring as the world's most influential economist and sparking a $10 million bidding war over his memoirs.

Ben Bernanke, his replacement at the Fed, will not be amused. Now Pimco's $650 billion bond fund can bet on rates with the aid of an insider's mind. And the market will follow its investment strategy at least as closely as Mr Bernanke's musings. The man known as the “Maestro” has every right to pursue a new career and such is his expertise that he could easily demand a share of Pimco’s investment profits.

But it’s tempting to think the wily Mr Greenspan also has a serious ego. The chance to command the world’s attention again must be irresistible.

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