Caterpillar Gives Vote of Confidence to Global Economy
Caterpillar Inc. raised its earnings forecast in a sign that industries from mining to energy are gaining momentum amid a stronger global economy — assuming no trade wars.
April 24, 2018Sales of New Homes Advance to Four-Month High
U.S. new-home sales increased in March to a four- month high, mainly reflecting a surge in the West, and upward revisions to prior months showed stronger first-quarter demand than previously estimated, according to government data released April 24.
April 24, 2018Existing-Home Sales Rise as Properties Draw Quick Bids
Sales of previously owned U.S. homes rose to a four-month high as buyers, fueled by a solid job market and tax cuts, quickly snapped up the limited number of available properties, National Association of Realtors data showed April 23.
April 23, 2018IMF Communique Reveals Trade, Debt Seen as Threats to Global Growth
The global growth outlook faces rising threats from trade tensions and mounting debt despite a strengthening and “increasingly broad-based” expansion at the moment, according to a statement from world finance ministers and central bankers.
April 23, 2018Global Finance Chiefs Told Trade Tensions Are Hitting Confidence
Trade tensions between the United States and China risk eroding business and investor confidence, even as global growth enjoys its best upswing in years.
April 20, 2018Fed Economists Say Tariffs More Likely to Kill Than Create Jobs
U.S. President Donald Trump may hope his tariffs on imported steel and aluminum will create new jobs, or at least protect existing ones. Researchers at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said the opposite outcome was more likely.
April 19, 2018Jobless Claims at Three-Week Low Amid Tight Labor Market
U.S. filings for unemployment benefits fell to a three-week low, continuing a trend that indicates a tight labor market, Labor Department figures showed April 19.
April 19, 2018Fed Says Tariff Concerns Cloud Otherwise Solid Growth Outlook
New tariffs and concerns over widening trade disputes cast a shadow over the Federal Reserve’s most recent survey of U.S. businesses even as all 12 regions reported continued robust job growth with few signs of overheating.
April 18, 2018Soon-to-Be New York Fed Chief John Williams Sees Little Risk in Rate Hikes
John Williams, who will take the helm of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in June, played down risks the yield curve would become inverted as the U.S. central bank gradually raises interest rates.
April 18, 2018Housing Starts Top Forecasts on Multifamily Construction
New-home construction rose by more than forecast in March on a rebound in multifamily starts, giving a boost to first-quarter economic growth, government figures showed April 17.
April 17, 2018