Spending rose by 0.8% on the month, compared with the forecast of 0.5%, while the personal consumption expenditures index—an inflation measure closely watched by the Federal Reserve—came in at 0.3%. … READ MORE >
Economics
RSM US Manufacturing Outlook Index: The Boeing effect takes a toll
The RSM US Manufacturing Outlook Index declined in March, reflecting sluggish activity across the production sector in general and the problems at Boeing in particular. … READ MORE >
Federal Reserve’s policy path points to a rate cut in June
Our modified Taylor Rule implies that the federal funds policy rate should be reduced to a range between 4.75% and 5% in the near term. … READ MORE >
Regulations and rate cuts to drive renewable energy growth
Sustained investment in renewables continues, despite the hurdles, and will translate into enduring growth as economic activity becomes less dependent on fossil fuel prices and supply fluctuations. … READ MORE >
How Legos can offer a lesson in addressing Canada’s housing crunch
Canada’s housing supply has faced chronic shortages in recent years. Prefabricated construction could help lower costs, speed construction and improve affordability. … READ MORE >
U.S. economy remained resilient in first quarter amid signs of future softening
The data is not likely to change the Federal Reserve’s course on monetary policy, with the central bank likely to hold rates steady at its May meeting. … READ MORE >
The Fed at an inflection point: A webinar from RSM US and U.S. Chamber of Commerce
With inflation easing and the labor market showing some signs of softening, the Fed has signaled that it intends to cut rates three times this year. But when will those cuts start? … READ MORE >
Existing home sales exceed forecasts as prices jump
There were 4.38 million existing homes sold in February, up by 9.5% from a month ago, the National Association of Realtors reported on Thursday. … READ MORE >
Fed holds rates steady as it implies three rate cuts in 2024
The primary takeaway from the Federal Open Market Committee’s policy statement and forecast is that the Fed, along with other major central banks, are likely to provide a near-synchronized set of rate cuts this year and next. … READ MORE >
February’s inflation in Canada makes case for rate cuts
Canada’s consumer price index fell to 2.8% February, marking the second consecutive month of easing inflation and bolstering the case for the Bank of Canada to cut rates in June. … READ MORE >