One only needs to look back on the past to note that such predictions are made every time but have yet to materialize.

WSJ: Why Mega-Events May Not Mean Mega-Bucks

And as we look back on the progress of the past year, and look forward to the work ahead, I have every confidence that we will do exactly that.

WHITEHOUSE: Job Creation and Economic Growth

Ponting's 42 wins came from 65 matches as captain, but the 35-year-old Tasmanian downplayed the achievement, preferring to concentrate on the future rather than look back at the past.

BBC: Australia captain Ricky Ponting sets Test win record

Do look for the EU debt crisis to be back on the front burner of the market place when the holidays are past.

FORBES: Comex Gold Near Steady in Quiet, Pre-Holiday Trading

While there have been no major developments on the EU front recently, look for the EU debt crisis to be back on the front burner of the market place when the holidays are past.

FORBES: Comex Sharply Lower, Hits 6-Month Low, On Long- Liquidation Pressure