Most think a prolonged period of easy monetary policy and a slow release of pent-up demand for durable goods and homes can yield growth of at least 3%.

ECONOMIST: The American economy

U.S. economic reports due for release Friday include durable goods orders, personal income and outlays, the Chicago Fed national activity index, the University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey, and the Kansas City Fed manufacturing survey.

FORBES: A.M. Kitco Metals Roundup: Gold Firmer on Tepid Short Covering; Traders Still Wary