A year into the pandemic-induced recession, property values have not only defied expectations of a drop, they have moved higher. The Commercial Property Price Index (CPPI) from Real Capital Analytics has increased almost 7% over the last 12 months. … READ MORE >
Blog
FOMC meeting comment: Welcome to the boomtown
The onset of recovery in the U.S. economy and the growing likelihood of a robust expansion this year and next resulted in a significant upgrade of the Federal Reserve’s Summary of Economic Projections forecast through 2023. … READ MORE >
CHART OF THE DAY: Housing market hits the brakes
The growth in the housing industry came to a sudden end in February as housing starts fell 10.3% month over month to 1.4 million and permits fell 10.8% to just under 1.7 million, according to government data released on Wednesday. … READ MORE >
An evolution of the economy: Living, and adapting, with COVID-19
What should middle market businesses consider in terms of a COVID-19 endemic future? Evaluating existing business models, updating policies and making investments in technology and digital infrastructure are just a few components. … READ MORE >
3 things to know in energy: OPEC+ cuts, U.S. oil exports to India rise, carbon trading in Canada
OPEC+ surprised some in the energy market with its recent decision to extend oil production cuts, the United States is now India’s No. 2 oil supplier, and Canada’s government is embarking on creating a federal carbon trading marketplace. … READ MORE >
Retail sales declined 3% in February, but brighter days are ahead
At first glance, the 3% monthly decline in retail sales for February would seem to be a cause for concern. But a look beyond the top-line number reported by the Commerce Department on Tuesday paints a more nuanced picture that suggests pent-up consumer demand and the prospect of stronger sales in the future. … READ MORE >
Understanding the rapid spread of COVID-19 variants
The emergence of COVID-19 variants is why the efficient and equitable distribution of vaccines across all nations is critical. … READ MORE >
CHART OF THE DAY: Airline passenger volume rising
One sign that Americans are ready to resume taking normal social and economic risks is airline passenger traffic. Airline passenger volume in the United States is increasing again in a welcome signal that the economy is ready to recover. … READ MORE >
Coronavirus update: Vaccines and the pandemic in six charts
Americans are being vaccinated at an average rate of 2.3 million per day and supplies are sufficient enough that states have begun to lower age requirements. … READ MORE >
CHART OF THE DAY: Rising food costs catch up with grocers
The producer price index for final demand foods increased by 4.4% in February from the year before, outpacing the 3.6% increase in the consumer price index for food at-home purchases. … READ MORE >