Interest seems to be highest, says the company, where there is strong national or regional sentiment.

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But as with so many other technologies that get tested in the crucible of national politics, real-time sentiment analysis may get a shot at the mainstream after this election.

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Although this inflamed nationalist sentiment, it pushed the national carrier's management and employees back to the negotiating table.

ECONOMIST: The Philippines

Sentiment is slower even than the national economy to turn round.

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U.S. economic reports due for release Friday include durable goods orders, personal income and outlays, the Chicago Fed national activity index, the University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey, and the Kansas City Fed manufacturing survey.

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U.S. economic data due for release Thursday includes the third-quarter GDP estimate, the weekly jobless claims report, the Chicago Fed national activity index, the University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey, the U.S. house price index and leading economic indicators.

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Some good news on the economic front, as homebuilder sentiment rose to its highest level in 5 years, according to the National Association of Homebuilders.

FORBES: Daily Wrap

Moreover, if, as seems likely, Mr Howard's campaign continues to emphasise polarising issues, such as immigration, it could energise anti-Tory sentiment in the marginals, allowing Labour again to do much better in terms of seats than its national vote share.

ECONOMIST: Bagehot