What’s Ahead?
Times reporters and editors predict what lies ahead in their areas in the coming year:
Economy
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More Growth, but Slower
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The national economy will expand for the ninth straight year, and in February will break the record for the longest boom in U.S. history with 107 consecutive months of growth. Recoveries in Asia and other regions will boost U.S. exports and manufacturing. But the pace of growth should slow notably. The nation’s low unemployment will be a major factor in limiting the economy’s ability to expand. And after the Federal Reserve nudges up interest rates again fairly early in the year, that should help cool the sizzling stock market and consumer spending.
