This means that the data which shows a negative correlation between stock performance and GDP, has less data in it, and its negative correlation is only roughly 24%, while the analysis which shows a positive correlation between stock returns and GDP has a correlation of 66%.

FORBES: John Mauldin's Muddled Stock Return Model

The new normal is more of the same: a mixed bag of positive and negative news and data, with the negative outweighing the positive on balance.

FORBES: For Businesses, A Misty-Eyed View Of Economy As Sentiment Worsens

The Goldman analyst notes that there have been a plethora of negative data points on the handset sector in recent weeks, including negative pre announcements from Research In Motion, HTC and Nokia, and weaker shipment targets at Huawei and ZTE.

FORBES: Slowdown: Goldman Chops 2012 Mobile Phone Unit Forecast