Social media: Getting down to business

Social media can be effective tool when properly managed and implemented             The trend that has become Social Networking can certainly help a business or owner increase the bottom line through the sharing of ideas, events, and interests with other like minded business people. But in many cases, this trend […]

Colorado business index dips, but forecasts growth

A monthly index tracking business conditions in Colorado slipped in January, but still reflects economic growth driven in large part by the energy sector. The Business Conditions Index retreated 2.1 points, but at 57.5 continues to forecast growth. “The state’s large energy sector is pushing the state economy forward even as the construction industry weighs […]

Consumers less upbeat at start of new year

After two months of gains to end 2011, a measure of consumer confidence begins the new year with a decline that reflects less upbeat assessments of business and labor conditions. The Conference Board reported that its Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) fell nearly four points to 61.1. The index advanced a total of almost 24 points […]

Chamber awards businesses and individuals for their contributions

The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has honored two companies, a married couple and long-time businessman for their economic and philanthropic contributions. The chamber selected West Star Aviation and Impact Promotions as its large and small business of the year, respectively. Jerome and Mary Gonzales were named citizens of the year. Denny Granum received […]

Colorado ranks 16th in state tax assessment

Colorado ranks 16th among the 50 states in the latest assessment of how taxes affect businesses. Colorado moved up one spot in the State Business Tax Climate Index for 2012 and continues to fare well overall for its comparatively low corporate, income and property tax rates. Compiled by the Tax Foundation — a nonprofit group […]

Revamped leading index forecasts growth

A revamped index forecasting economic performance in the United States continues to signal domestic growth even as the global outlook remains uncertain. The Conference Board reported that its Leading Economic Index (LEI) rose four-tenths of a percent to 94.3 in December. The index has edged up only about a tenth of a percent over the […]

Signs points to further growth

              Emotional markets are often irrational markets.  In both real estate investing and in the financial markets, investors without a discipline can be easily swayed by fear and greed.  By developing a discipline and anchoring decisions to specific facts, investors can maintain their bearings amidst uncertainty and turbulence.  Many […]

Keeping an eye on consumer trends

                 I am a firm believer in horizon scanning…looking ahead at how the world is changing.  Once I know this I can position the Chamber for future opportunities and position the organization to weather challenges.  One of my major sources of information for this exercise is trendwatching.com.   […]

Look for stable year in commercial real estate

           Though the Mesa County economy seems to be strengthening at a snail’s pace, the outlook for commercial real estate this year is looking more positive daily.  Demand should begin to outpace the formerly growing supply in industrial, office and retail properties.              Since our country’s credit crisis of 2008, investors […]

1 94 95 96 97 98 105