Fourth quarter probably marked the trough although we could see an equally weak number in the first quarter.
Those arguing that the Fed will soon take a time-out from gradually normalizing the level of the fed funds rate will have found little encouragement in these minutes.
This survey remains consistent with a booming manufacturing sector.
The widespread notion of only a few months ago that the U.S. would be taking genuine steps down the path of fiscal consolidation in 2005 now looks hugely optimistic.
The Fed has got a difficult balancing act in the months ahead. The Fed is increasingly concerned indicators of a cooling housing market imply future downside risk to growth.