The employment cost index report adds to the growing list of evidence that there is very little in the way of cost pressures in the inflation pipeline.

I think that the U.S. consumer is hot to trot. I think you're looking at a first quarter that's going to easily top 10 percent (in retail sales increase) on an annualized basis.

I think that the U.S. consumer is hot to trot, ... I think you're looking at a first quarter that's going to easily top 10 percent (in retail sales increase) on an annualized basis.

has stopped bleeding ... a hiring spree in 2003 looks like a low-odds bet.

(T)hat's not a recession-maker, but it's a pinch nonetheless - it means a little less steak and a lot more bologna, fewer outings to the nightclub and perhaps one less vacation on the cruise line (but maybe more time at the blackjack table).

The question must be asked as to what psychological impact there may be from this oft-cited [number] ... upon consumer sentiment. The unemployment rate and inflation are the most important determinants of consumer sentiment.