HONG KONG--(Marketwire - May 16, 2012) - Today, [ www.EquityLeader.com ] introduced research coverage of The Progressive Corporation (NYSE: [ PGR ]) and Associated Banc Corp (NASDAQ: [ ASBC ]). Full research reports are available to readers at: [ www.EquityLeader.com/index.php?sm1=PGR&sm2=ASBC ].

Economic fundamentals leading into 2012 have set a generally positive pace with GDP growth likely to pick up through the coming year. However, there are several important caveats to note as the world economy continues to face headwinds and risks weigh to the downside. Positive outlooks are conditional on fiscal policy in payroll taxes and unemployment insurance benefits and upon the easing of the European debt situation. A repeat of volatility experience in 2011 is likely in 2012, as perceptions about the strength of the U.S. economy and the euro zone will vary over time as events unfold.

Despite the current situation, our team continues to identify high momentum situations with growth potential -- there remains strong opportunity within careful discretion.

Equity Leader has decided to cover The Progressive Corporation for its current position within the financial industry. The Progressive Corporation is an insurance holding company. The Company's Personal Lines business includes insurance for personal autos and special lines products (such as motorcycles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs), recreational vehicles (RVs), mobile homes, watercraft and snowmobiles). Its Commercial Auto business offers products in 49 states. A copy of this report detailing The Progressive Corporation (NYSE: [ PGR ]) is available at: [ www.EquityLeader.com/index.php?sm1=PGR ].

Equity Leader is also taking note of Associated Banc Corp for its changing role within the financial industry. Associated Banc-Corp (Associated) is a bank holding company. As of December 31, 2011, the Company owned one nationally chartered commercial bank headquartered in Wisconsin serving local communities within its Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota; one nationally chartered trust company headquartered in Wisconsin, and 29 limited purpose banking and nonbanking subsidiaries. To download free research on Associated Banc Corp (NASDAQ: [ ASBC ]) investors may visit: [ www.EquityLeader.com/index.php?sm2=ASBC ].

About Equity Leader
Whether you are a first time investor or seasoned market professional, Equity Leader provides the resources necessary to simplify your research process. Our focus has always been to empower investors with the information they need to make their own investment decisions.