One was upbeat, forecasting a period of higher commodity prices that would fuel the resource sector, rising exports, and low double-digit stock market gains in New York and a high single-digit advance in Toronto.

FORBES: Two Views Of The Future

There aren't many Western central banks with a worse forecasting record during this period than the Old Lady of Threadneedle Street.

BBC: Inflation: Balancing the risks

Apple was more upbeat on sales, claiming that demand for its redesigned iMac computer is stronger than expected, and forecasting an increase in revenues over the next three-month period.

BBC: Computer makers back in the black

Despite generally forecasting an improvement in export orders, optimism among firms dropped into negative territory after a sustained period of "extremely positive" quarters.

BBC: Scottish engineering firms report export orders dip