The big three U.S. automakers are banking on a big year. The Big Three are introducing about 31 new vehicles and are hoping low interest rates will help drive the new car industry.

Jeff Johnson the sales manager at Rod Kush's Furniture in Lincoln says traditionally car sales and furniture sales are a sign of where the economy is heading. Johnson says they expect a double-digit increase in sales for 2004. Consumers say they are taking advantage of the low interest rates, however it's not the driving force in buying. Lincoln resident Mike Morgan says having a good stable job is giving him consumer confidence.

Morgan says, "A secure job makes me feel comfortable in buying something I know I can pay for."

A big question in Nebraska is how much effect will the Mad Cow disease scare have on Nebraska retailers. There is a good sign of the ag industry bouncing back from the mad cow situation.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange had enough trading on Wednesday for trading to continue through the afternoon. It was the first time since the mad cow disease fiasco was discovered.