Productivity Increases by the Most in More Than a Year
U.S. productivity surged last quarter by the most in more than a year, reflecting a sharp acceleration in economic output, while labor costs growth cooled.
Economic Growth Quickens in Q4 With Inventory Boost
U.S. economic growth accelerated by more than forecast in the fourth quarter, fueled by the rebuilding of inventories and capping the strongest year since the 1980s.
Inflation Shows More Staying Power After Hitting 7% in 2021
U.S. consumer prices are likely to extend their eye-popping gains after soaring last year by the most in nearly four decades, further burdening Americans and ramping up pressure on policymakers to act.
US Adds Fewer Jobs Than Forecast; Unemployment Rate Falls
U.S. employers added fewer jobs in December than forecast, while the jobless rate fell below 4% and wages jumped, adding to evidence of a tight labor market that’s expected to help spur Federal Reserve interest rate liftoff as soon as March.
Record Share of US Small Businesses Raised Wages in December
A record 48% of U.S. small business owners said they raised compensation in December and nearly a third said they plan to do so in the coming months, the National Federation of Independent Business said Jan. 6.
Manufacturing Gauge Falls While Price Pressures Ease
A measure of U.S. manufacturing fell short of expectations at the end of 2021, reflecting declines in gauges of delivery times and prices that belie an otherwise solid demand picture.
Factory Output in US Increases at Solid Pace in Broad Advance
Output at U.S. factories solidly advanced in November, suggesting an easing in capacity constraints is helping manufacturers ramp up production.
Consumer Prices Climb at Fastest Annual Rate Since 1982
U.S. consumer prices rose last month at the fastest annual pace in nearly 40 years, magnifying how rapid and persistent inflation is eroding paychecks and increasing pressure on the Federal Reserve to tighten monetary policy.
Consumer Confidence Falls to a Nine-Month Low
U.S. consumer confidence decreased to a nine-month low in November as accelerating inflation and a pickup in COVID-19 cases weighed on Americans’ views on the economy.
Retail Sales Jump by Most Since March, Topping Forecasts
U.S. retail sales rose in October for a third month, signaling households continue to spend even with the fastest inflation in decades.