Bear Stearns: 35% Chance of U.S. Recession

This is a story (sorry no link) that is of interest because the economists at Bear Stearns have been among the most bullish on Wall Street.

Bear Stearns economists have lowered their forecast for U.S. growth, and are now forecasting U.S. real GDP growth at 1.5% in Q4 2007, and 1.25% in the first half of 2008, with a 35% chance of recession. As a comparison, here is an excerpt from their June forecast:

"We're maintaining our forecasts for ... more [than 3% real GDP growth] in the second half of 2007, a decline in the unemployment rate, one or two Fed hikes in the second half, and a somewhat stronger dollar as the Fed shift toward hikes becomes apparent."

Now they are forecasting unemployment to "rise above 5%" in 2008. They also expect "incremental weakness" in consumption and commercial construction. They must be reading this blog!

Imagine what the more bearish economists are thinking.