The economy is complex and there is a wide range of indicators covering many facets of the economy. Investors should track key sectors to improve decision making on how to invest - for example, between stocks, bonds, or even some form of cash or near cash. Production and sales trends clearly affect corporate profits. Inflation can affect whether a bond purchase is a good idea or not - and can affect Fed policy. Fed policy can make the difference on strength in economic growth, inflation, bond prices, and corporate earnings. Finally, a long term perspective on interest rates can help with investor decisions on asset allocation.