outlook

Half of the general public are most threatened by rising food and energy prices, with only 13% citing recession as their primary financial concern, according to the AIC.

Despite inflationary worries and the Georgia conflict, the Russian economy is still experiencing a boom, according to JP Morgan.

Investors will see long-term opportunities in credit, property and equities in 2008 and 2009, despite below-trend growth as the market recovers from credit and inflation shocks, according to Standard Life Investments (SLI).

The UK will slow this year but avoid recession, according to economists at Norwich Union.

Fund managers can't help but be cautious on the outlook for the UK economy going into 2008.

The FSA's latest outlook on systemic risks facing the industry focuses heavily on the role of intermediaries and intermediation processes as an area to keep under control.

The third annual joint Association of Investment Companies/IFA Promotion poll of around 200 fund managers and IFAs has found the industry looking generally positive about prospects next year, albeit with some differences.

A further break of links between unemployment and inflation may be on the cards next year, helping economies such as the UK and US to outperform, according to L&G.

Next year could see the start of a long-term restriction in US and UK economic growth rates sparked by excessive personal and government debt loads, warns Aberdeen Asset Management.