Today Barack Obama becomes America’s 44th and the first black President. He undoubtedly faces a whole host of challenges as he prepares to take office, but none is more urgent than addressing the state of the economy.

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research the economy began sliding this time last year and is expected to last at least another year, making it the longest recession since World War 2.

With unemployment soaring higher, the housing market in freefall and credit rates feeling the crunch, the new administration has no time to rest on its laurels. Obama is no doubt hoping that Congress pass his $800 billion economic stimulus plan as a matter of urgency.

So while it remains to be seen exactly how Obama’s plan will stabilize the financial system, what are you keen to see change as we head further into the new year?