If eMarketer's projections are correct, we will see a big uptick in online ad spending this year.  It could be a strong indication that the digital economy is in for a surge.  We wonder what the overall economic impact will be, and whether we can look back in 12 months and see online ad spending as a reliable economic indicator.  Here is a look at eMarketer's projections for online ad spending in the US over the next five years:

From the report:

US online ad spending will post growth well above 20% again this year to reach nearly $40 billion, eMarketer estimates, as the internet continues to prove its worth to advertisers in a tough economic climate.

“Advertisers’ comfort level with integrated marketing is greater than ever, and this is helping more advertisers—and more large brands—put a greater share of dollars online,” said David Hallerman, eMarketer principal analyst.

Double-digit growth is expected through 2014, when US online ad spending will reach $52.8 billion. In 2016, eMarketer expects advertisers to spend $62 billion online.

Read US Online Ad Spend to Close in on $40 Billion here.