Bernanke gives upbeat assessment of economy to US senators

Outgoing Chairman of the Federal Reserve Ben Bernanke leaves a closed-door meeting with Senate Democrats in the US Capitol in Washington, DC USA 09 January 2014. The Chairman took questions from Senators on issues facing the Federal Reserve this year - EPA Photo.

WASHINGTON: Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke on Thursday offered an optimistic view on the US economy's prospects to Democratic senators, but warned that "tough decisions" were ahead on dealing with long-term budget deficits and healthcare costs, according to lawmakers present.

Bernanke, whose term as chairman ends on Jan 31, told a private lunchtime meeting with senators that the reduction in federal budget deficits and the country's improving energy position were "all positives" contributing to a healthier US economy, according to Senator Thomas Carper of Delaware.