The Bank of Canada increased its policy rate by 75 basis points on Wednesday, bringing the overnight rate to 3.25%, and said that it would continue to reduce its balance sheet. … READ MORE >
Inflation
Service sector continued to expand in August
Service sector growth inched up in August, marking the 27th month in a row of expansion despite recession fears. … READ MORE >
Falling gas prices imply further inflation relief
This recent decline in gas prices should put downward pressure on top-line monthly inflation when the consumer price index for August is released on Sept. 13. … READ MORE >
U.S. August jobs report: Another robust month as employment increases by 315,000
American labor market dynamics remain tilted toward sustained strength in hiring and rising wages. … READ MORE >
Jobless claims show that jobs remain plentiful
First-time claims for unemployment benefits declined to 232,000 for the week ending Aug. 27 as continuing claims increased modestly. … READ MORE >
After a strong recovery in Canada, economic headwinds set in
The Canadian economy has had a year of robust recovery, but now that growth is slowing as economic headwinds set in. … READ MORE >
How high must unemployment rise to tame inflation?
To reduce inflation to acceptable levels, it will be necessary to destroy between 1.7 million and 5.3 million jobs. … READ MORE >
Powell at Jackson Hole: From era of abundance to one of insufficient supply
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell was blunt in his remarks at Jackson Hole, Wyo.: “Reducing inflation is likely to require a sustained period of below-trend growth.” … READ MORE >
Spending remains steady on strong income growth and inflation relief
U.S. personal income and spending in July signaled a gradual rebound of the economy in the third quarter after six months of declines in gross domestic product. … READ MORE >
Expectations at the end of business cycles
The Federal Reserve has a blunt yet effective instrument to fight inflation: raising the federal funds rate. But using it requires a delicate balancing act. We offer a snapshot of what to look for as the economic cycle plays out. … READ MORE >