Fisher Investments MarketMinder: The Good, the Bad, and the Not So Bad

Originally published by Fisher Investments MarketMinder on: 4/3/2008

Aggregate economic statistics are comprised of the good, the bad, and the (eh) not so bad. But in times of worry, many fixate on the bad, exaggerate its effects on the whole, and forget about the good and the “eh” entirely. This is one reason economic prognostications are typically off the mark. But rather than fall prey to misperception, we can break it all down and do some good old-fashioned sums.

For at least a year, many have forecasted impending recession. Recession mania reached a fever pitch last month with numerous comparisons between today and the Great Depression. In his testimony to Congress Wednesday, Fed chairman Ben Bernanke indicated the current economic forecast is murky at best, and the economy would likely slow, not grow at all, or contract. (How’s that for hedging your bets?) Mr. Bernanke’s speech did little to instill an already uneasy public with much confidence . . . .

Click here for full story on MarketMinder: The Good, the Bad, and the Not So Bad

See important Fisher Investments disclosures: click here