The FOMC next week will almost certainly leave its policy rate unchanged between 5.25% and 5.5% and maintain the pace of quantitative tightening. … READ MORE >
Economics
Spending remains strong as a key inflation gauge declines toward Fed’s target
Inflation dynamics to close out last year strongly point to a near-term return to the Federal Reserve’s 2% inflation target amid a solid labor market, strong spending and real income gains. … READ MORE >
U.S. economy booms at a 3.3% pace in the fourth quarter
The U.S. economy last year expanded by a robust, above-trend pace of 3.1% and a fourth quarter pace on a seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3%. … READ MORE >
The case for the Bank of Canada to accelerate rate cuts
With restrictive financial conditions, high interest rates and still-elevated inflation, the Canadian economy has come to a standstill and is now at a tipping point. … READ MORE >
A rail merger and the evolution of North America’s supply chain
The merger of two major North American railroads will create a rail network that reaches both coasts and runs through the middle of the continent. … READ MORE >
Bank of Canada holds rates steady at 5% amid weak growth
the Bank of Canada on Wednesday maintained its policy rate at 5 per cent and continued its restrictive monetary policies. At the same time, though, its public statements signed a more dovish tone. … READ MORE >
Consumer sentiment rises above expectations in January
Consumer sentiment rose in January to 78.8 from 69.7, much higher than the median consensus forecast of 70.1. … READ MORE >
Friend-shoring and a new era of U.S. trade
Fragmentation of economic, financial and trade relationships is now the norm as trading and security blocs continue to form around the world. … READ MORE >
Initial jobless claims and housing starts post upside surprises
Filings for jobless benefits fell last week to the lowest level in 16 months, a testament for how resilient the labor market continues to be. … READ MORE >
How attacks on ships in the Red Sea are affecting trade
Trade through the Red Sea accounts for 15% of total global sea trade, including vital supplies of grains, seaborn liquid natural gas and oil. … READ MORE >