However, at least there is a change now, and that brings the chance of a period of economic expansion fueled by new optimism.

FORBES: When Bad News Is Good News

Similarly, risk concentrations that might be acceptable at a single institution in a period of economic expansion could be dangerous if they existed at a large number of institutions simultaneously.

FORBES: Transcript

To understand just how big these numbers are, consider that the last period of economic expansion in America produced profits averaging 8 percent of the economy, significantly below their current percentage of GDP.

FORBES: 3rd Quarter Corporate Profits Reach Record High-Worker Pay Hits Record Low:So How Exactly Is Obama The 'Anti-Business' President?

What might be called the objective facts of the election still favour Al Gore: the long period of economic expansion and the voters' belief that the most important matters in the election are education, Social Security and health care, Democratic issues all.

ECONOMIST: The selling of a candidate

Mr Latham was attempting to oust Mr Howard at a time when Australia had entered its 13th consecutive year of economic growth, the longest sustained period of expansion in its history.

ECONOMIST: Australia

Lastly, period 3 is again one of economic expansion, occurring from June, 2009 to March, 2011.

FORBES: Connect