Some economists also argue that people who have delayed replacing big-ticket items like air conditioners and dishwashers aren't likely to hold out much longer and could soon start buying.

NPR: Stocks Tied To The Consumer Are Hot. Maybe Too Hot

Local environmental groups have over the last few years expressed frustration that the city's government hasn't taken swifter action to revise Hong Kong's air-pollution targets, which they claim are out of date.

WSJ: Hong Kong Unveils Pollution Objectives

Dive into the crowd at MacWorld gathered around Apple's latest product, the MacBook Air, and they'll quickly point out what could be the wafer-thin machines biggest flaw: Users can't swap in fresh batteries. (See: " Into Thin (MacBook) Air") That could be a deal-breaker for road warriors looking for a lightweight notebook.

FORBES: What Bugs Apple Fans