Tentative optimism filled the exhibit halls at this year's MINExpo, where Caterpillar Inc. delivered a softened three-year outlook. Despite cooling commodities demand, the National Mining Association show, held on Sept. 24-26 in Las Vegas, attracted 50,000 attendees and 850,000 sq ft of exhibits, a respective 30% and 42% jump over the last show in 2008.
"The mood of the overall show was cautious, though manufacturers remained optimistic, long term," said Credit Suisse analyst Jamie L. Cook in an investor note. "Despite the softness, the previous growth rates for China were unsustainable."