With the U.S. economy adding 203,000 jobs in November and growing at an annual rate of 3.6 percent from July through September, the odds of tapering occurring sooner has significantly increased. In addition, data on auto sales and exports were also good. Yes, the holiday season is having a temporary effect on job creation and increasing built up on business inventory, which can reverse at the end of this quarter. However, the unemployment rate is constantly coming down, which the Fed closely watches. I think the odds of the Fed announcing a scale back of QE this month are very high. Many Fed Presidents in recent months have gone on record in favor of tapering. Don't be surprised by the Fed December Meeting!