@Krieghund:
The setup chart on page 6 shows that each power receives a number of IPCs with which to start the game. This number also happens to be that power’s initial income level.
Ah, I always thought that meant what your starting production capability, not on hand cash. I read a rule saying the the capability is the same as your “starting ipc’s” so I guess you do in fact start with money. Thanks everyone for your time!