Nevertheless, the recency effect from excessive losses in 2008, as well as the challenging political climate, have investors feeling increasingly despondent.

FORBES: Investor Illusions

But the main reason why so many people have such trouble reconciling improving or deteriorating economic data and stock market conditions is the Recency Effect.

FORBES: Think 1938, Not 2008

The trouble with the Recency Effect is that everyone all of a sudden thought they were Nassim Taleb, orinthological experts on the spotting of Black Swans.

FORBES: Sometimes It's Just A Black Duck

To have effective data means focusing on the quality (accuracy, scope, timeliness and recency), usability (ease of use, concise presentation, etc.), accessibility, sales mobility (ability to transact with customers regardless of location), and intelligence (trends, recommendations, profile matching, etc.), according to Deepa Mani of the Indian School of Business, a member of the research team.

FORBES: Does Better Data Lead To Better Corporate Performance?