CNBC's special: Wealth in America

[SFG75]

CNBC released aninteresting report regarding the attitude of Americans in relation to the economy.

The good news:

75% of Americans think prices will rise. On average, those surveyed predict prices will rise an average of 4% for the goods they buy.

Despite the market's recent selloff, most investors surveyed expected the value of their stocks would be greater a year from now. Sixty percent thought the value would increase, but most had modest expectations, with just 51% saying they thought their portfolios would rise "just somewhat."

The survey, which polled more than 800 adults over this past weekend, will be conducted by CNBC on a quarterly basis. The questions were aimed at assessing people's views on a variety of economic issues

The bad...

The most unhappy were people earning less than $30,000, African Americans, and those with no money invested in the stock market.

One reason for that could be that some Americans feel they are underemployed. Sixty-nine percent said their jobs use many or all of their abilities, but one in three believe they are in jobs that don't use their skills.

The survey found a direct correlation between economic happines and happiness on the job, but either way, the majority of those surveyed were generally pessimistic about the outlook for their wages.

Most people are expecting their wages will lose ground to inflation over the next year. Slightly more than half, 52%, thought their wages will rise over the next year, and then, only by a median of 2%.

The ugly......

If you aren't doing so hot, then go to school or get a new job. In other words, WORK for it.

Are you confident that the economy is heading in the right direction?

For our European cousins, what problems do you see happening in your respective country in regards to the economy? What changes should be implemented if any?