Labor Indicators Point to Moderate Hiring
A compilation of U.S. labor indicators in April showed only moderate gains in hiring, according to a report released Monday by the Conference Board.
Productivity Slowdown to Linger
The slowdown in economic activity has been surprising and is hopefully temporary, while the easing in productivity was expected and will linger for a while.
More Consumers Plan Summer Travel as Sentiment Improves
U.S. consumers in May felt better about both the current economy and the future, according to a survey released Thursday. More are also planning to travel this summer.
ISM to Regional Factory Reports: Drop Dead
A strong ISM report was a refutation of several regional Fed surveys that showed factory activity slowing sharply or even contracting last month.
Demand for Rental Units Could Disrupt Fed Plans
The demand for rental units is the highest in 15 years. The imbalance isn't just a headache for those seeking to lease a home. It could cause a migraine for Fed officials.
The Rent Is Too Damn High and Getting Higher
Low availability of rental homes is pushing up costs: The median asking rent rises to $721 a month (while home prices continue to fall).
Recovery Downshifts but Doesn’t Break Down
The grinding sound you hear is the U.S. economy's gears shifting to a lower speed.
Domestic Demand Seems to Be Holding Up
What matters to the outlook is whether demand will hold up. So far, order books look full.
Down-to-Earth Jobs Report Would Be a Good Thing
When it comes to hopes about employment data, the financial markets and consumers may have gotten ahead actual job growth. A reality check--in the form of a moderate gain in March payrolls--will remind investors and consumers that the labor markets and the U.S. economy as a whole still face risks and headwinds.
Lean Inventories Will Be Plus for Production
The inventory sector is often one of the last pieces that fits into the economic puzzle. That's in large part because the data are delayed [just like the trade deficit] and partly because consumer and business spending play greater roles in powering growth.
Lean Inventories Will Be Plus for Production
The inventory sector is often one of the last pieces that fits into the economic puzzle. That's in large part because the data are delayed [just like the trade deficit] and partly because consumer and business spending play greater roles in powering growth.
Fed Debates Economy’s Potential Growth
A debate emerged at the Federal Reserve about the U.S. economy's growth potential, according to minutes from the latest meeting.
