http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/e…
There is an increasing demand for cars and electronics as holiday season approaches. Retail sails increased by 0.3 percent in November. This article examines increased retail spending in the U.S.
http://www.economist.com/node/21543186
As Britain’s economy stumbles toward a likely recession, exports will be extremely important. However, the share of exports going to Europe has fallen in the past decade. Britain isn’t able to focus on production of capital goods, like machine tools, that appeal to rapidly industrialising economies. Fortunately, the recent success of Britain’s car industry is positive. Domestic car sales fell by 4.2% but exports to China rose 23%, and sales to India were up by 67%.
http://www.economist.com/node/21543174
America’s trade deficit with China soared to almost $300 billion last year which totals over 40% of America’s total deficit. Apple’s Ipad is an example of a good America imports from China. Each iPad sold in America adds $275 to America’s trade deficit with China. However, the value of the actual work China offers is $10. It is estimated that iPads accounted for around $4 billion of America’s reported trade deficit with China in 2011.
http://www.economist.com/node/21554744
The increased use of smartphones and the falling cost of computers had lead to the success of mobile payments. Smartphones provide consumers with powerful computing devices and internet connections that are always on. Digital payments pose a serious threats to banks as consumers will be able to manage funds online without having to go to their branch.
http://www.economist.com/node/21563725
Ageing baby boomers are threatening economic growth in this country. Retirements will reverse the earlier labour-force surge. Having lived through a spectacular economic market back in their earning years, boomers now sell off assets to finance retirement. This puts pressure on equity prices and denies young workers an easy route to wealth.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-crea…
I believe someone posted an article that disagrees with this. Not trying to one0up anyone, I find this angle interesting as well.
http://www.ted.com/talks/rachel_botsman_…
how would it be quantified?