Lynn Franco Outlook Quotations

Looking ahead, the CEOs are cautiously optimistic but not as optimistic about the short-term outlook as they were at the end of 2004.

While the economy has not turned around yet, the worst may well be over. The upturn in confidence is being driven by growing confidence about the business outlook and job prospects. Consumer expectations for the future are now higher than they have been in more than a year.

We're a little more positive about the outlook of the holiday shopping season than we were in October.

While overall confidence remains relatively positive, the latest reading reflects growing concerns that U.S. economic growth may be slowing down. And, while the outlook for corporate profits remains optimistic, rising interest rates and oil prices may curb business leaders' projections.

A decline of more than 40 cents in gasoline prices this month and the improving job outlook have combined to help restore consumers' confidence.

A decline of more than 40 cents (a gallon) in gasoline prices this month and the improving job outlook have combined to help restore consumers' confidence.

The lack of improvement in labor market conditions continues to dampen consumers' spirits, ... Despite September's retreat, consumers remain cautiously optimistic about the outlook for the next six months. Consumer spending is likely to continue at or near current levels.

The economic outlook is becoming increasingly pessimistic, with consumer sentiment continuing to fall.