GDP plunged at 6.1 percent pace, but contraction not as comprehensive

Investors may want to view the first quarter U.S. Gross Domestic Product report this way: the contraction was deep, but it was not as comprehensive as the plunge recorded in Q4 2008.

The nation's economy contracted 6.1 percent in Q1, due to a record decline in investment, the U.S. Commerce Department announced Wednesday. However, the contraction showed some signs of 'green shoots' that may point to a recession bottom up ahead.