Daily Archives: February 10, 2012

Consumer Sentiment Dips. A Sign Of Trouble, Or Just A Temporary Setback?

Regular readers of The Capital Spectator know that the still positive but decelerating trend in personal income and spending has been a concern on these pages for some time. Among the risks to worry about when it comes to the key economic reports and the potential blowback for the business cycle, this is near the top of my list. Today’s update on consumer sentiment suggests that the crowd is also worried.

Continue reading

Been Down So Long–Has Housing Finally Bottomed?

The economy may be poised for better days, but we’re still a long way from a genuine boom. Indeed, some folks remain skeptical generally and warn that the economy is more likely to contract than grow in the foreseeable future. A higher level of confidence that we’ll sidestep macro trouble is in order. But how? Job growth seems to be perking up, but it could use some help. Maybe we’ll catch a break with residential real estate in the months ahead too. Yes, real estate.

Continue reading