For prosumers, I can throw you a list of the current ones:
1) Panasonic FZ8
-good lens, Leica
-not so good processor
-Panasonic used to have high ISO problems - no noise, but no detail; not sure if this has been changed in the FZ8
-good IS technology, best out there apparently
2) Canon S3 IS/S5 IS
-all rounder
-tilt LCD is a plus for some people
-macro focusing ability to 0 cm, apparently
3) Sony H2/5/7/9
-not so sure about 7/9 but H2/5 obtain focus really fast
-good IS
-relatively good noise performance - decent balance between keeping details and noise control
-digital zoom, while not perfect, is better than most if required
4) Fujifilm 6500fd/9600
-wide angle 28mm equivalent, only prosumer other than Olympus with that
-good noise control, best of the lot, typical of Fujifilm - especially for 6500fd, it uses F30 sensor or something like that
-no IS though, telephoto will be problematic unless you are Mr Steady Hands
There's also Panny FZXX series, I guess. Why don't you read up on camera reviews and go to the more reliable shops which will give you relatively ok prices? Alternatively, if price is a serious issue, get second hand. There are people who sell when the camera still under warranty at bargain prices, or at least slightly below par for new.. I sold my H2 when it still had quite a number of months of warranty left. =)