A decline in global car sales likely reduced world gross domestic product by 0.2% last year, and a flat auto market will continue to dampen global manufacturing indicators in 2019, according to a report by Fitch Ratings on May 28.
Author: Reade Pickert
Jobless Claims Hit Five-Week Low Amid Tight Labor Market
Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits unexpectedly dipped to a five-week low, offering a fresh sign the job market remains historically tight amid other mixed signals on the economy.
First-Quarter Productivity Rises 3.6% in Fastest Pace Since 2014
Productivity gains in the United States accelerated by more than expected last quarter to the fastest pace since 2014, adding fuel to the Trump administration’s argument that its tax cuts are boosting the economy without stoking inflation.
Factory Gauge Falls to Two-Year Low as Orders Cool
A gauge of U.S. factories fell in April to the weakest level since late 2016, signaling that manufacturing headwinds extended into the second quarter as companies continue to confront uncertainty about trade.
New-Home Sales Rise to 16-Month High
Sales of new U.S. homes unexpectedly rose in March to a 16-month high, with a third straight increase that reflects a boost from lower borrowing costs.
Retail Sales Jump Most Since 2017 on Autos, Gasoline
U.S. retail sales jumped by the most since September 2017 as gains in motor vehicles and gasoline stations boosted sales, signaling consumers are giving the economy greater support.
Trade Gap Narrows to Eight-Month Low on Plane Exports
The U.S. trade deficit unexpectedly narrowed to an eight-month low in February on a surge in civilian aircraft exports, which may come under pressure after the grounding of Boeing Co.’s 737 Max planes.
Trade Gap Narrows to Eight-Month Low on Plane Exports
The U.S. trade deficit unexpectedly narrowed to an eight-month low in February on a surge in civilian aircraft exports, which may come under pressure after the grounding of Boeing Co.’s 737 Max planes.
Consumer Sentiment Falls as Outlook for Economy Weakens
U.S. consumer sentiment fell in April for the first time in three months, missing estimates, as the long-term economic outlook dropped to the lowest in more than a year and enthusiasm over tax cuts waned.
Jobless Claims Unexpectedly Fall, Hitting New 49-Year Low
Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits unexpectedly dropped, falling to the lowest level since October 1969, as the tight labor market showed little sign of easing.