July’s data on job openings, quits and layoffs reaffirmed that the Federal Reserve is at its target when it comes to the employment mandate. … READ MORE >
Manufacturing sector contracts for sixth month in a row
After three years from 2022 to 2024 of significant increases in construction spending as a result of the Chips and Science Act, it has been downhill for new construction spending. … READ MORE >
Wrong data at the right time: Mixed data complicates Fed’s decision
A lot is happening in the economy, but one trend has become clear: The economy is slowing but not enough to guarantee a rate cut. … READ MORE >
Tariffs drive producer prices higher, squeezing margins
Equity markets, buoyed in recent months by solid earnings, may face pressure as profit margins shrink after companies absorb tariff costs. … READ MORE >
Fed’s preferred inflation gauge accelerates in June as tariffs bite
Inflation picked up in June, driven largely by tariffs, according to the personal consumption expenditures price index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge. … READ MORE >
Tariff pause buoys trade data amid warning signs in labor and spending
A sharp narrowing of the goods trade deficit in June will most likely provide a boost to second-quarter gross domestic product, but the headline number masks underlying economic fragility. Labor market activity slowed notably during the month, and signs of weakening consumer demand suggest more turbulence ahead, even as confidence … … READ MORE >
Volatile capital spending reflects tariff turbulence
Core business spending on equipment had another month of volatility, with orders falling by a sizable 0.7% in June. … READ MORE >
Jobless claims decline, but the recovery is still uneven
Initial claims fell to 217,000 for the week ending July 18, down from 221,000 in the prior week. The pre-pandemic average was 218,000.. … READ MORE >
American consumers remain resilient in June as layoffs cool
American consumers finished the quarter on a much stronger note with a rebound in spending at retail stores after two disappointing months. … READ MORE >
Impact of tariffs appears in producer inflation despite weak toplines
The cost of goods in the producer price index rose at the quickest pace since February, by 0.3% on the month, as tariffs began to make their way into the broader economy. … READ MORE >