According to some analysts, tighter credit and soaring energy costs are pinching Americans consumers.
While usually the economy has been able to withstand these pressures, as 2006 hits its midpoint, economists see the stresses increasing.
According to a story in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, consumer debt is what is slowing everything down. The story continues, explaining that while the Fed is aware of this dynamic, it might be caught in a dilemma, thanks to energy prices.
You can read the full story at Pressures building toward economic slowdown in 2nd half of 2006.