Seems like everywhere one turns these days, it is easy to cue in on the worst-case scenario revolving around the depressed U.S. real estate market and the subprime mortgage scandal. Still, by official definition, the United States does not fit the mold that would indicate an economic recession has occurred. As Johnnie Cochran, the well-known defense lawyer once said in a high-profile trial, “If the glove doesn’t fit, you must acquit.” His statement would fit well with those who want to doom our economy to a recession.

As the story goes, one day Chicken Little was walking through the woods when an acorn fell on his head. Accordingly, he assumed the sky was falling. Thus, Chicken Little initiated a media blitz to warn the government (in this case the king) of the impending doom. There are some good endings and not-so-good endings to this fairy tale, but the messenger, Chicken Little, and the message of impending doom have remained consistent.

In the midst of all the usual confusion with the economy, real-estate woes and the subprime lending practices offering fuel for a possible recession, general and corporate aviation value trends continue to remain generally stable. Even the nearly $100 per barrel price for crude oil seems to get at the most a raised eyebrow at the pump. After a possible grumble, it’s wheels up, and life goes on. It’s the American way.

If there were any question that amergence of a global economy is a reality, one would only have to look at the impact U.S. markets had on global markets during the second week of August. The jitters experienced in U.S. markets with noticeable declines in a wide range of stocks set a rippling effect into world markets. While negative speculation created a wave of sell-off frenzies, the seasoned investor, like a professional pilot flying through unexpected turbulence, remained steady knowing their knowledge, expertise and skills would see them through into calmer air. Behind every cloud is a silver lining. As markets recover from a case of jitters, it is a proven fact a global market does exist even though each market is an independent entity. The good news is products and services remain strong, and the opportunity for economic growth is limitless.