The slower economy of the second half of 2006 might continue into the first half of 2007. But it may not get any slower.
Ken Goldstein, Labor Economist, Conference Board

The Conference Board reports today that the Index of Leading Economic Indicators increased 0.1% in November, following a 0.1% increase in October, and a 0.4% increase in September.

Ken Goldstein, Labor Economist at The Conference Board explained, "The slower economy of the second half of 2006 might continue into the first half of 2007. But it may not get any slower. Energy prices are down. The housing slump does not appear to be deepening. And the economy retains considerable strength. The unemployment rate remains relatively low. Inflation is low, and so are interest rates. These are all positives with respect to consumption and investment. At this stage, something else must develop, either to give the economy a new jolt of energy to speed it up, or a new snag that could force the economy to slow more."