Industry picks up first. I’ve heard 2 people in different fields say things are changing in their little worlds. Now, I’m skeptical that it really points to anything, but I can hope!
One can always hope, but with 20% of the workforce unemployed or underemployed and credit tight, I fail to see where domestic demand will come from. The USD rally vs other currencies will make our goods more expensive and less competitive so I fail to see how our manufacturing economy will improve. The housinf industry is still in a depression and banking only looks good because of all the funny money the Fed is pumping into the big boys. Bond market will be the canary in the coal mine and it looks like inflation is heating up. Interesting times.
The lumber business has picked up. First in exports to Asia of both finished lumber and logs.
The US market has also picked up. However, it is a supply driven market. Demand in the US has picked up unevenly throughout the US. However, much of it may be tied to the homebuyer tax credit.
FYI, the lumber market has ALWAYS been a leading indicator of an improvement in the general economy. We always lead into and out of recessions. However, when the tax credit expires it COULD lead to a double dip.