The economy of the United States is in its 41st month of expansion. When will it end? There are danger signs, including a weak U.S. dollar abroad, continued overspending by the government, and a sluggish world economy. Inflation is a key to our future, and a formidable opponent. The U.S. interest rate is also a problem. On the international front, the U.S. dollar, trade deficit, and weak world economy are problems. One of the most positive signs in the economic outlook is the well-balanced nature of the economy. American consumers are confident and their purchasing power is growing. The odds seem to favor continued growth ahead.