The Week in Numbers - Economic Outlook

What do the New Year and the run-up to a general election have in common? An inevitable outbreak of predictions, resolutions and outlooks.

This year we have both scenarios at once, and there is no holding back the tide of wise words from the windbags. Most previews are too vague or obvious, self-serving, far-fetched, or hung about with qualifications to be useful. However, this year’s haul throws up a few useful pointers, from a few real gurus who tend to get it right. Psigma’s Bill Mott is one of them. Lured back to manage money again in 2007, after a premature retirement, Mott’s down-to-earth style has made him a trusted name for many advisors. His fund weathered some low patches this year, but his analysis consistentl...