Below, we've listed the ten favorable and unfavorable factors most frequently mentioned by the panel members. They are ranked according to how frequently each was mentioned. In 1997 Modest inflation Stable interest rates and monetary policy. Overseas growth accelerates, demand for U.S. - made goods jumps, net export deficit shrinks. Business inventory accumulation keeps factories humming.
Capital spending remains solid, especially for producers durable equipment.
Employment and income growth keeps consumer confidence high. Solid, though unspectacular, productivity growth. Wealth effect on consumption from strong financial markets. Lack of major imbalances anywhere in the economy. In 1997 High levels of consumer debt.