Dow falls 143; weak jobs picture to pressure markets

The jobs picture is likely to get worse before it gets better. Among the keys to an early end to the recession are rapid deployment of stimulus money from the incoming Obama administration and improved psychology about the economy.

The stimulus is important because the recession is worsening with no other catalysts to jumpstart the economy, said Philippa Dunne of the Liscio Report, an economic newsletter. As important is maintaining the optimism that the repairs are being made. If that falters, she said, 2009 could become difficult both for the economy and investors.

http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Investing/Dispatch/market-dispatches-010909.aspx