Here's what I expect out of 2018:
- ISP's will offer "packages" that provide faster speeds to websites you visit more frequently or that are more utilized. Think bundles like "Netflix, HBO Now, Hulu, etc." The pricing scheme's will be lower than what's currently on offer but the packages will be smaller and the hardest hit will be the online shops operating out of home.
- Tillerson will be out and Pompeo will be in. This will net State with a leader that wants War with Iran and whom distrusts current intel on Iran's compliance with JCPOA.
- Tax Bill will pass - stock market will roar and corporates will skyrocket. Federal revenue will decline throughout the year at a moderate pace as loopholes are taken advantage of (pass throughs). Share buybacks, dividends, etc will be the rage. Wage's will increase in line with 2017 at a modest 2.5%.
- Housing in major metros continues to contract - modest reprieve from investors leaving rental market as that income is no longer tax deductible. Housing starts still don't make up for population growth currently or towards closing that gap from past pop growth.
- DPRK continues to test ICBMs and we watch and do nothing. China shows willingness to hear our complaints but only offers gestures and no action as we continue to levy actions against their economy
- At some point next year we impose tariffs on Chinese Steel & Aluminum
- Trump attempts to withdraw from NAFTA but Congress takes up arms against it
- House goes to the Dems, Senate stays GOP
- Canada and Mexico work together to generate alternative trade pacts between themselves as well as South America and China
- Brexit continues to muddle on as growth continues to stagnate in the UK. Corporates grow weary of continuing debacle and slowly move to relocate elsewhere.
- OPEC and Russia try to maintain output cuts in 2018 but feel pressured by US Shale. Several smaller OPEC members break from the compact.
- US growth for 2018 nets 3%