We obviously stand a very good chance of a recession. Whether that happens or not no one knows and we will have to wait and see.
BUT we have a lot of conditions out there that lead to recession. The global economies are certainly helping US Mutli's but that I don't see as being able to keep us a float as the markets and bulls have been relying on. The consumer is likely going to cut back spending due to rising GAS/energy prices, declining equity in their home, forclosures and general economic fears that affect consumer confidence and spending. I think this retail season can very well be the nail in the coffin for the economy or at least it will be the deciding factor. Housing is in a recession anyone can see that. Financial crisis is going on for banks/financial institutions with the credit crunch. Whenever Housing tanks historically we have gone into recession. And the housing sector is in it's biggest recession ever. Lots of nasty scenarios unfolding out there. I don't have PHD in Economics,,,,only a Bachelors. But I'd bet my bachelors we either get a few qtrs of negative GDP growth or we come damn close. 10-15% correction will come soon for the markets. If we don't hold aug lows...well we could see a good pullback for the markets. I'm bearish for the foreseeable future, near term till I see clarity of direction for the economy and the markets.
HAPPY TRADES!