Another reliable data point hints at economic slowdown

Posted Mar 27th 2007 3:50PM by Eric Buscemi
Filed under: Economic Data

Following our blog on the continued deterioration in the leading indicators for the economy, Ethan Allen Interiors Inc (NYSE: ETH), a very good indicator of economic activity, last night reduced its EPS estimate for this current quarter to 53c-56c, well below the expected 59c consensus.

Ethan Allen is one of the few companies that have positioned themselves to survive and possibly thrive when the Fed decides to fuel up the economy again. Management honesty in the way they evaluate their own performance translates into honestly on how they communicate to investors. Therefore, a good source for what is going on in the economy.

The furniture maker began warning of a slowdown very close to when the housing industry rolled over. It appeared the economy was moving along fine, but once again Ethan proved to be a good and correct data point on housing and subsequently the economy.

It is time to start using Ethan Allen as the indicator as to when the economy will bottom. If the stock does little to the downside today, it is most likely a sign the selling is done and the Fed will move to lower rates.

Tags: economic, economy, eps, estimate, eth, ethan allen, EthanAllen, indicator