This story appears in the
January 1996 issue of
Entrepreneur.
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You've heard the predictions from trend trackers, economists
and financial analysts. This month, we look to the stars-with the
help of Chicago Astrologer Del O'Connor Norwood. She offers the
following predictions for small business in 1996:
- It's going to be an unusual year. According
to Norwood, three of the slow-moving planets (Saturn, Uranus and
Pluto) will change signs, shaking things up along the way.
- Next year's business environment will be a volatile
one. So entrepreneurs should watch their personal and
professional investments closely.
- There will be major financial changes. According
to Norwood, a new pattern of eclipses begins next year, and each
eclipse will affect the United States, the Federal Reserve and the
New York Stock Exchange. "Unfriendly astrological
connections" will stir the money pot, she says.
- In May, the Federal Reserve will take some unpopular
action that will affect taxes in the future. Anyone
thinking of starting or expanding a business in 1996 "should
allow more of a cash reserve than they think they'll
need," says Norwood.
- Inflation will continue to creep upward. You
might not have needed a crystal ball to predict this one.
Lest you envision a bleak year ahead, Norwood says certain time
periods are more likely to be prosperous than others: For instance,
she says September will be a universally good month for all kinds
of businesses.