NABE Sees Slower Growing Economy

Washington, DC, Oct. 25, 2010 -- Business economists say the U.S. economy should continue to grow this year but at a slower pace than they initially thought.

The National Association for Business Economics survey found that 54% of economists expect growth of more than 2% in 2010, down from 67% last quarter.

The economists also saw improvement in a number of areas.

The survey showed better margins for the services, goods-producing, finance, insurance and real estate businesses. Margins stagnated in the transportation, utilities, information and communications industries.

The employment outlook also improved. The percentage of firms expecting a drop in employment through attrition or layoffs fell in the quarter. But most weren't expecting to create many jobs. The majority said employment tread water.