There is typically far too much optimism around at this time of the year, says Tom Whitehouse. He offers a contrarian dose of reality with some predictions for the year ahead.

There is typically far too much optimism around at this time of the year. Here is a contrarian dose of reality with some pre-dictions and pontifications for the year ahead.

IPO markets

European exchanges will remain mostly closed to clean-tech initial public offerings (IPOs) and the more buoyant US markets will mostly welcome only US companies. “I do not see too many exciting companies and IPO candidates in Europe,” said one London-based clean-tech broker who preferred to remain anonymous.

VC…