After a few false starts, the Fed may be finally getting past its cold feet as a December rate hike now looks much more likely on stronger data released today. Fed speak and economic data continue to occupy global markets’ attention as Fed Chair Janet Yellen reiterated that a move at the December 16–17 meeting “would be a live possibility” if forthcoming economic data is supportive – and today’s red-hot U.S. employment report fueled that notion increasing expectations of a Fed rate hike before year-end to 68% (from 50% the previous week).

 

While U.S. jobs data stole the spotlight, strong services activity also deserves some attention and excitement; the sector is in expansion territory in the U.S. and in the Eurozone, at 59.1 and 54.1 in October, respectively (readings above 50 represent expansion; below 50 contraction.) The services sector also strengthened in China to 52 from 50.5 (according to an independent survey by Caixin and Markit), and also rose in Japan.

 

Why is this a good thing? Because the services sector represents the largest share of major economies— by far. As a percentage of GDP, it ranges from 51.4% in China to 70.1% in Canada, 77.7% in the US and almost 79% in France. China crossed the 50% hurdle in Q1, which is an important milestone in the government’s strategy to transform the economy from an infrastructure/export-driven model to a services/consumption-based model.

 

If you’re as excited as I am about these developments, you might appreciate these 5 Fen Shui Secrets for Business Success, as presented by my good friend Kristi Stangeland, to get you in the right Zen-zone for continued and new levels of success. Click here for the full report but in short, the secrets are:

 

1. Meditation - Believe it or not, taking the time to do this buys you more time
2. Power of Plants - Place a live plant on your desk.
3. Command Position - Position your desk so that you see the door
4. First Sight - What do you see when you walk into your office? Place something that makes your smile. Remove anything negative.
5. Inspire Yourself - The subconscious and unconscious mind is incredibly powerful.