How long before economies are stimulant-free?

WASHINGTON: The global recovery may be losing some momentum, making it harder for governments to wean their economies off public money.

In the United States, the euro zone and Canada, unemployment figures last week showed businesses were in no hurry to resume hiring, even though economic growth has resumed. This may be a signal that companies have their doubts about whether the recovery can be sustained once government supports fade away.

In order for that to happen, consumers and companies will have to show a willingness to spend and invest - without added sweeteners such as stimulus money or tax breaks.