More Predictions

Here we go. Be gentle.

1. No election in 2009. The coalition will remain but it will be hopelessly bogged down by lack of consensus. It would disappear entirely but the Liberals realize that they have to pretend to stick with it or look completely ridiculous for flip-flopping so quickly. Don’t forget, even though his heart wasn’t in it, Ignatieff signed up for the coalition as well. Gradually things will drift back to where they were and the coalition will exist in name only. If there is an election, look for another Conservative minority with voter turn out around 23%.
2. The Big 3 will continue to try to become the Slightly Less Big 3 by following Chrysler’s lead to sell off pieces. All three though will exist at the end of the year.
3. Like the price of steel, to a certain extent the price can be manipulated. Despite continuing slow demand the price of oil will get to $72.50/ barrel. Fortunately, now that the economy is the only issue, governments will be able to ignore the fact that developing the tar sands is an ecological disaster. But that won’t impact the cost of a barrel by the end of 2009.
4. I loved the comment that the biggest story will be a Hollywood actor (let’s hope it’s an actress) will run naked through the streets. Apologies, I don’t remember whose prediction that was. Since that (correct) answer has already been taken, I’ll say that in Canada there will be outrage over the massive cost overruns for Vancouver 2010. Globally, the Obamamania will lose its luster as they fight one scandal after the next.

Wow, this all seems pretty negative. Maybe the Leafs will make the playoffs. I’ll end with a question for AH. Andy, please refresh my memory. I was at Goeman’s today and the sales rep assured me that the GE dryer (made by Mabe) came from Montreal. Is this true? I seem to recall someone telling us that there are no longer any appliances made in Canada.