Trough near for US economy

2001 has the dubious distinction of being one of the most difficult and dramatic periods for global stock markets in a very long time. But after the turmoil of the past few months, there have been some better signs. Despite experiencing the largest manufacturing recession in the US since the 1930s, US investors have shown themselves to be increasingly inclined to look past the immediate downturn to the prospects for recovery later in 2002. Progress in the war in Afghanistan also provided additional reassurance. Even Japan's stock market has held steady despite more bleak news ...