Economy
An economy is the amount of money made and used in a particular country or region. The United States is the world’s biggest economy, accounting for roughly 16% of the global economy. The European Union, which is made up of 27 European countries, is the world’s biggest economic region, accounting for 17% of the world’s economy.
Economics look at a number of factors when considering the relative strength of an economy. One of the main considerations is the gross domestic product (GDP). GDP is a measure of all the goods and services produced in an economy and it is generally calculated on a quarterly and annual basis.
Sustained economic growth positively impacts income, employment levels, consumption, and the overall standard of living. In a strong or growing economy, businesses increase their sales, hire more people, are more confident about the future, and invest more in their companies. Consumers earn more, are more optimistic about the future, and spend more.
In the years leading up to the 2008 financial crisis, the U.S. reported annual GDP growth of around three percent. Since the 2008 and 2009 recession, U.S. GDP has been more subdued at around 2.2%.
When considering the strength of an economy, economists also look at inflation, interest rates, jobs growth, consumer demand, population growth, standard of living, and social and political factors.
By measuring this data on an annual basis, economists can determine if an economy is expanding or contracting. An economic analysis can also help investors get a general idea of market conditions and possible trends.
U.S. Jobless Claims Drop Last Week
Jobless Claims Report Shows Robust Job Market The number of Americans filing for jobless benefits unexpectedly dropped last week, suggesting the country’s job market still remains strong. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, initial claims for jobless benefits dropped.
Beige Book: U.S. Economy Expanding at Modest Pace
Rising Wages Not Pushing Inflation The U.S. economy expanded at a modest pace in July and August, according to a Federal Reserve report this week. The so-called “Beige Book,” a survey which collects economic activity reports from early July through.
Slowdown in Job Creation Keeps Traders Guessing on Rates
Jobs in August Fewer Than Forecast U.S. job creation slowed more than expected in August after posting gains in the past two straight months, a trend which could influence the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision this month. Nonfarm payrolls rose.
Yellen Signals Early Rate Increase on Strength of Economy
Timing Still Depends on Future Data Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen indicated on Friday that the central bank may raise interest rates prior to its December meeting as the U.S. economy is showing growing signs of strength. “In light of.
U.S. Dollar Gains on Yellen’s Rate Comments
Fed Sees Gradual Rate Rise as Appropriate The U.S. dollar rose against major currency pairs Friday, strengthened by Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen’s remarks that an interest rate increase might come earlier than expected. The Wall Street Journal Dollar Index.
U.S. GDP Slows in Second Quarter More Than Earlier Estimated
Corporate Profits Increase in Second Quarter U.S. economic growth in the second quarter slowed more than earlier reported, according to the latest report from the U.S. Department of Commerce. On Friday, the Commerce Department announced that gross domestic product (GDP).
U.S. Weekly Jobless Claims Decline to 261,000
Claims Below 300,000 for 77 Consecutive Weeks Recent economic indicators have been pointing to a strengthening labor market in the U.S., and the latest one does not disappoint. Thursday saw the U.S. Department of Labor release its weekly report on.
U.S. Durable Goods Orders Increased 4.4% in July
Biggest Monthly Gain Since October 2015 After an unexpected drop in June, U.S. durable goods orders bounced back in July. On Thursday, August 25, the U.S. Department of Commerce released the latest report on durable goods. It showed that in.
U.S. Existing Home Sales Fell in July
First Year-Over-Year Decline Since November 2015 While new home sales soared to an eight-year high in July, data on existing home sales is telling a different story. On Wednesday, August 24, the National Association of Realtors reported that total existing.
U.S. Dollar Gains Ground on Home Sales Data
Investors Await More Clues on Rate Direction The U.S. dollar reversed its yesterday’s decline against a basket of currencies on Wednesday, amid a mixed set of economic data which showed strengthen in a segment of the housing market. The Wall.
