Consumer Sentiment Declines in August to Three-Month Low
Consumer confidence declined in August to a three-month low as recent stock market turbulence weighed on Americans’ outlook for the U.S. economy in the coming year.
Claims for Jobless Benefits Fall to Three-Week Low
Filings for U.S. jobless benefits declined to a three-week low, indicating persistent demand is encouraging employers to maintain headcounts.
Pending Sales of Previously Owned Homes Rose 0.5% in July
Contracts to purchase previously owned U.S. homes climbed in July for the sixth time in the past seven months, signaling further momentum in residential real estate.
Trade Deficit Widens, Showing Effect of Strong US Dollar
The trade deficit in the United States widened in June as the strong dollar lifted imports and hobbled exports, representing a hurdle for economic growth.
Leading Indicators Climb More Than Forecast in June
The index of U.S. leading economic indicators increased more than forecast in June as historically low borrowing costs and a rebound in housing propelled growth.
Pending Sales of Existing Homes Climb to Nine-Year High
Contracts to purchase previously owned U.S. homes rose in May to a nine-year high, indicating recent strength in the real estate industry will be sustained.
Jobless Claims Hold Below 300,000 for 16th Week
Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits held below 300,000 for the 16th straight week, signaling a tighter labor market that will help propel growth in the second half of 2015.
Sales of New Homes Rise to Highest Level in Seven Years
Purchases of new homes in the United States rose in May to the highest level in seven years, signaling the industry is gaining momentum heading toward the second half of the year.
Despite Slower May, Building Permits in Best Two-Month Stretch in Almost Eight Years
Builders in the United States began work on fewer houses in May after a surge the prior month, but the industry is having its best two months in almost eight years as its busiest time of year revs up.
Job Openings Rise in April to More Than 14-Year High
Job openings in the United States increased to the highest level in more than 14 years, showing the labor market was solidifying gains even as the economy emerged from a first-quarter funk.