U.S. indices were up by low single digits in July, with the Nasdaq doing best as tech stocks continued to rally. International markets also did well, but fixed income was weaker. This market performance reflected the underlying economy. Strong job creation pushed consumer confidence up significantly, supporting income and spending growth. Inflation continued its decline, although the Fed raised rates again as expected.
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Economic Release Snapshot: GDP Growth Accelerates in Second Quarter
Each week, we break down the latest U.S. economic reports, including what the results mean for the overall health of the economy. Here, you will find how economists’ forecasts compare with actual results, key takeaways to consider, as well as a list of what’s on tap for the week ahead.
What Mattered This Week? Consumers, Economic Growth, and the Fed
There was a lot more data this week than last—and all of it was good. Everything we are seeing suggests that the economy is still growing, despite the headlines and fears. While there are certainly risks out there, the data is showing a resilience that no one expected, and that is a good sign for the future.
Putting the Fed Meeting into Focus
With the Fed’s regular meeting scheduled to conclude today, there has been a tremendous amount of commentary around what the Fed is going to do, what it should do, what it might do, and so forth. The consensus is that the Fed will raise rates 25 bps and then signal—something—going forward.
Economic Release Snapshot: Retail Sales Continue to Rise
Each week, we break down the latest U.S. economic reports, including what the results mean for the overall health of the economy. Here, you will find how economists’ forecasts compare with actual results, key takeaways to consider, as well as a list of what’s on tap for the week ahead.
What Mattered This Week? Economic News a Mixed Bag
This will be a short post for a couple of reasons. First, there isn’t a ton of news to talk about and nothing really notable. Second, I want to head up to Maine for the weekend to eat lobster rolls and hopefully get some sun. Here’s hoping.