This summary features August data on inflation, used-vehicle sales and prices, auto loan access and performance, as well as initial September consumer sentiment. Inflation is picking up from the impact of tariffs, auto loan access declined in August as auto loan performance remained shaky, and September has started with weaker consumer sentiment. Inflation Increased in … Continued

This summary features August employment and new-vehicle sales data. The employment report affirmed further slowing in hiring and set the stage for a Fed rate cut later this month. New-vehicle sales in August cooled modestly from July but were boosted by strong sales into rental. Hiring Slowed Again in August, But New-Vehicle Sales Remain Strong … Continued

This summary features updated Q2 GDP data, more housing data from July, personal income, spending, and inflation data from July, and readings on consumer sentiment in August. The housing data was weak, but little changed. Consumer spending and income growth accelerated in July, with inflation picking up slightly as expected. Measures of consumer sentiment were … Continued

Starts and existing home sales improved in July, jobless claims are increasing in August, and the Fed is getting closer to cutting rates again. Here is a roundup of key economic indicators that are driving our economy. RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION trends were mixed in July as permits declined and failed to meet expectations, but starts increased … Continued

Retail sales remained strong in July, even though core inflation reaccelerated, but higher inflation expectations are weighing on consumer sentiment. The initial retail sales report for July saw a slightly slower-than-expected growth in sales, but June’s sales were revised higher. Retail sales remain strong, with July building on a strong June. The consumer is still behind … Continued

The pace of new and used auto sales picked up as prices declined slightly and credit loosened, while loan performance was mixed. New light-vehicle sales increased 6.6% year over year in July, with one more selling day than July 2024.  Large fleet buyers contributed strongly to July’s performance. Retail sales also improved. Lower prices and higher incentives … Continued

Hiring stalls out, inflation ticks up, but real consumer spending remains positive The first estimate of second-quarter real GDP growth showed a sharp rebound as seasonally adjusted annualized growth was 3.0% following a decline of 0.5% in the prior quarter. The increase was driven by a collapse in imports so was again more of an … Continued