Recapping my 2011 predictions
Here are my 2011 predictions from January 2, what happened and my score.
Prediction: Small business optimism will improve in 2011. Actual: National polls continue to report flat or decreasing small business optimism; -1.
Prediction: Small businesses will report increased sales and profits for 2011. Actual: The same polls indicate small businesses are reporting increases, even if only slightly; +1.
Prediction: Small business will not be a significant source of new jobs due in part to new technology options. Actual: Polls indicate small businesses are adding technology first and employees second; +1.
Prediction: National unemployment will be above 8.5% at year-end. Actual: Joblessness remains over 9%; +1.
Prediction: The U.S. economy will grow at over 3% GDP for 2011. Actual: Alas, more irrational exuberance on my part. GDP growth this year will be less than 2%; -1.
Prediction: Inflation will increase in 2011. Actual: The Consumer Price Index shows 2011 inflation at 3.5%, up from 1.5% in 2010; +1.
Prediction: The disconnect between Wall Street and Main Street will increase. Actual: Stock prices and Wall Street compensation still do not correspond to the Main Street economy; +1.
Prediction: President Obama’s like/dislike rating will improve by year-end – currently net -2.3%. Actual: Current polls have the president at -15% (Rasmussen 43% positive - 19% negative); -1.
Prediction: Congress’ approval rating will improve - currently net -54.4% (19.6% positive, minus 74.0% negative). Actual: Congress barely squeaked out an increase, with a net -54%; +1.
Prediction: VP Biden will not be on Obama’s second term ticket. Actual: Jocular Joe has not been jettisoned for Hillary – yet; -1.
Prediction: Newt Gingrich will lead all GOP polls by year-end. Actual: Newt is now leading in almost all polls – who else saw this coming?+1.
Prediction: Sarah Palin will not run for president. Actual: Palin the endorser, not the candidate; +1.
Prediction: Obama’s greatest accomplishment, his healthcare bill, will become a political albatross. Actual: Multiple defects in Obamacare and pending constitutional challenges are a big part of the president’s negatives; +1.
Prediction: Auburn beats Oregon for the BCS Championship. Actual: Auburn 22, Oregon 19; +1.
Write this on a rock... That’s 10 for 14 in 2011, improving my 11-year record to 70.4%.
Jim Blasingame is creator and host of the Small Business Advocate Show. Copyright 2011, author retains ownership. All Rights Reserved.
