The Superbowl Guide to the US Economy

Updated: Tuesday, 03 Jan 2012, 10:04 PM CST
Published : Tuesday, 03 Jan 2012, 10:04 PM CST

HOUSTON - How will the US economy fare in 2012? There are a lot of economic indicators out there, and they’re not all pointing in the same direction.

So why not focus on what could be called the “Superbowl Ad” indicator?

This year, the cost of a single 30-second spot hit a record $3.5 million, on average.

And despite the high price tag, they sold out before Thanksgiving.

One of the biggest Superbowl advertisers this year is General Motors, which will be running several commercials for its Chevrolet brand.

One local dealer says that’s a vote of confidence in 2012.

“We finished the year so strong, they really anticipate a big increase in 2012, and probably for the next couple years,” says Bobby Knapp with Knapp Chevrolet.

Realty company Century 21 is also advertising in next month’s Superbowl.

Construction and real estate have had several rocky years since the housing bubble burst, kicking off the Great Recession.