RAPAPORT... As the U.S. economy continues to show no signs of improvement, Gerald Celente --founder of The Trends Research Institute -- discusses what the group believes is in store for the diamond jewelry and retail sector in coming quarters. Celente addressed the Rapaport International Diamond Conference in September 2008, and this first (of two parts) interview catches us up on if, and how, his measurements of the economy have changed since we last met.  Be sure to weigh in on the discussion and submit your thoughts.

About Gerald Celente:

Celente is described as the "Martial Artist of Trend Forecasting" for his insight and direction "in anticipation of what the future may bring – and to be prepared for the unexpected." According to his website, Celente well understands the importance of proacting rather than reacting: "The first rule of close combat is to attack the attacker. Action is faster than reaction. The same holds true for the future. You know the future is coming … attack it before it attacks you."  Celente founded  The Trends Research Institute in 1980 and is an author of three bestsellers and  publisher of the internationally circulated Trends Journal newsletter. He considers himself a political atheist, and  observes and analyzes current events forming future trends for what they are – not for the way he wants them to be.

Celente developed the Globalnomic® Trend Forecaster, using his unique perspectives on current events, and the Globalnomic® methodology is used to identify, track, forecast and manage trends. He covers 300 diversified trends fields and Trends Research Institute provides research studies and consulting services to businesses and governments worldwide.