Business Conditions

“The single-family housing market remains a bright spot for the economy, supported by low interest rates and rising demand as urbanites move to less dense living areas.” – Robert Hughes

“Initial claims for unemployment benefits are hovering around 800,000, sustaining doubts about the durability of the recovery.” – Robert Hughes

“Single-family housing continues to be one of the strongest areas of the economy, supported by low mortgage rates and rising demand as urbanites seek less dense housing.” – Robert Hughes

“Retail sales posted a strong gain in September, but persistent uncertainty regarding Covid-19 and government policies remains a significant risk to future growth.” – Robert Hughes

“Initial claims for unemployment benefits hit a seven-week high, sustaining doubts about the durability of the recovery.” – Robert Hughes

“Initial and continuing claims for unemployment benefits remain stubbornly high, suggesting a slow and uneven economic recovery.” – Robert Hughes

“Debt service ratios fell to a record low but adjusting for massive government transfer payments paints a different picture.” – Robert Hughes

“The September ISM surveys suggest continued expansion as the economy recovers from lockdowns, but mixed results from other data sources raise doubts.” – Robert Hughes

“Auto sales continued to rebound in September from the policy-induced plunge during lockdowns, supported by low interest rates and increased demand as urbanites move to suburbs.” – Robert Hughes

“Private payrolls added 877,000 but the slowing of pace recovery in employment and huge numbers of unemployed suggest the recovery remains extremely uncertain.” – Robert Hughes