For the Federal Reserve, the new data bolstered the case that it will pause its rate increases after one final hike in this cycle on May 3. … READ MORE >
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March inflation data points to a Fed rate peak in May
The inflation outlook improved in March because of a mix of year-over-year base effects and a significant decline in energy prices, all of which caused the top-line reading to decline to 5% from 6% previously. … READ MORE >
After flush years, households show a reluctance to borrow
As flush households face the potential of an economic slowdown, they are reluctant to take on debt. Instead, households appear to prefer precautionary saving in contrast with overconsumption. … READ MORE >
This week in energy: Surprise OPEC+ cuts, energy project legislation, electricity demand growth
We examine the aftermath of the OPEC+ surprise cut announcement, a proposed bill to expedite energy projects, and transmission constraints on electricity demand growth. … READ MORE >
5 things to know in life sciences: Week of April 3, 2023
From the development of a nanosyringe to a high-tech baby cot, each week we highlight the latest happening in the life sciences industry. … READ MORE >
Hiring cools in March as fears of a wage price spiral ease
The U.S. March employment report indicated that total jobs increased by 236,000, illustrating that hiring remains strong, albeit at a slower pace. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Friday report points toward easing concerns of a wage price spiral that underscores the direction of monetary policy as the Fed is poised to hike its policy rate by 25 basis points at its May 3 meeting. … READ MORE >
Canada jobs report tops forecasts, showing resilience amid recession fears
Canada’s March job report came out hotter than expected, adding more pressure on the Bank of Canada’s fight against inflation. … READ MORE >
Are the good times in consumer spending coming to an end?
Consumers have shown remarkable resilience as the economy has rebounded from the depths of the pandemic, but that could be changing. … READ MORE >
Service sector growth weakens in March
March’s services composite index was 51.2, slightly higher than the long-term threshold of 49.9, according to ISM data. An index above 49.9 indicates expansion. … READ MORE >
Job openings and factory orders soften amid recession concerns
Job openings and factory orders came in lower than expected on Tuesday, continuing to show signs of softening economic demand that should work in the Federal Reserve’s favor in fighting inflation. When the new data is combined with softer economic data released recently, the risk of a recession in … … READ MORE >