The deceleration in earnings growth is a significant concern. Techs are up against steep comparisons in the second half of this year and the first half of next year,

That number may go up to 3.9 percent growth now.

On the economic front, there haven't been significant improvements in jobs and wage growth, and the comparable sales comparisons are only getting tougher, ... It sounds reasonable to expect big discounts this year. The macro factors would suggest it.

It is important now for Blair to accept that foreign policy is a serious concern and to start to do something about it rather than being seen to brush it aside. ... must be directed against those carrying out, planning or supporting such terrorist attacks and not against those who are our allies in dealing with the terrorists.

Traffic has been picking up for years. We make some exceptions for growth but our concern is sound, sight and safety.

I would agree that the current low job growth is a matter of concern, but this index is aimed at the long run. Massachusetts was hit particularly hard by the last recession, but it also means we're poised for a strong recovery.