IBD'S WEEK IN REIVIEW.(THE IBD 100)

Upgrade: Economy Grew 8.2% in Q3

1 That's the fastest pace since Q1 '84 and topped the original estimate of 7.2%. Companies finally began to invest in inventories last quarter. Some worry that means GDP won't get as big a boost in Q4 from restocking. Other contributors to the gain included corporate profits. They rose at a 10.6% annual clip in Q3, their best since Q4 '92.

Medicare Reform Passed

2In a 54-44 vote, the Senate approved the most wide-ranging changes to Medicare since it was created in 1965. Backers include the White House, drug makers, hospital groups and the AARP. Critics say it's too expensive and want more changes. There's also concern the bill will result in the privatization of the Medicare system.

Signs Of Life At Factories

3The long-suffering manufacturing sector finally saw some solid growth in recent months. Durable goods order swelled 3.3% in Oct., the best since July '02, led by orders for computers and electronics. Inventories of durable goods grew for the first time since Feb. '01. A separate report showed Chicago-area factory activity in Nov. rose at the fastest pace since Feb. '95, but continued to cut jobs.

Claims Fall, Confidence Up