The economy grew at a 4.9 percent pace in the third quarter, the strongest performance in four years, according to revised figures from the U.S. Commerce Department, reported the Associated Press. Yet analysts believe a rough stretch could be ahead as the housing slump and credit crisis continue.

The 4.9 percent pace is better than the 3.9 percent growth rate previously reported for the quarter ended Sept. 30 and was driven by U.S. exports and businesses investing in inventory. Exports grew by 18.9 percent on an annualized basis in the third quarter, and many businesses invested in equipment and software and construction of new buildings.

Consumer spending grew at a 2.7 percent pace, up from 1.4 percent in the second quarter.

Growth in the fourth quarter is predicted to slow to a 1.5 percent pace or less, as consumers and businesses are expected to cut back on spending and investing in response to a weakening housing market and credit crunch.