In response to a recurring feature titled "On Topic," Michael Boldin, of Temple's Fox School of Business, responded to the question: What do you think is the probability of a double-dip recession in the next 12 months? "The only forward-looking statistics that suggest any problems ahead are the broad stock market indices, which have shown a downward trend for almost two months, and building permits, which have been disappointing for the past two months as well," Boldin wrote. "But because the overall financial sector continues to strengthen, consumer confidence is rising, and business profits are rising as well, the odds of a double dip are low — probably less than one out of 10."