Productivity and Labor Cost Report for Q3, 2007 Released Today (Revised)

The Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released its quarterly report on Productivity and Unit Labor Costs for the third quarter of 2007 (revised data):

Non-farm Productivity
Predicted: +5.7%
Actual: +6.3%

Unit Labor Costs
Predicted: -1.1%
Actual: -2.0%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in non-farm productivity and unit labor costs.

For non-farm productivity, a positive number represents an improvement in the efficiency of producing domestic goods and services in the U.S., and therefore can signify a favorable inflationary outlook, and vice versa.

The Unit Labor Costs report measures the costs related to producing each unit of output. A positive number can be a harbinger of rising inflation, and vice versa.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report (PDF.)

>  SITEMAP  <

Productivity and Labor Cost Report for Q3, 2007 Released Today (Preliminary)

The Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released its quarterly report on Productivity and Unit Labor Costs for the third quarter of 2007 (preliminary data):

Non-farm Productivity
Predicted: +3.2%
Actual: +4.9%

Unit Labor Costs
Predicted: +1.0%
Actual: -0.2%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in non-farm productivity and unit labor costs.

For non-farm productivity, a positive number represents an improvement in the efficiency of producing domestic goods and services in the U.S., and therefore can signify a favorable inflationary outlook, and vice versa.

The Unit Labor Costs report measures the costs related to producing each unit of output. A positive number can be a harbinger of rising inflation, and vice versa.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report (PDF.)

>  SITEMAP  <

Productivity and Labor Cost Report for Q2, 2007 Released Today (Revised)

The Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released its quarterly report on Productivity and Unit Labor Costs for the second quarter of 2007 (revised data):

Non-farm Productivity
Predicted: +2.5%
Actual: +2.6%

Unit Labor Costs
Predicted: +1.5%
Actual: +1.4%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in non-farm productivity and unit labor costs.

For non-farm productivity, a positive number represents an improvement in the efficiency of producing domestic goods and services in the U.S., and therefore can signify a favorable inflationary outlook, and vice versa.

The Unit Labor Costs report measures the costs related to producing each unit of output. A positive number can be a harbinger of rising inflation, and vice versa.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report (PDF.)

>  SITEMAP  <

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) "Preliminary" Released Today for Q2, 2007

The preliminary, real U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report for the second quarter of 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +4.0%
Actual: +4.0%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in the Gross Domestic Product for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the actual or real figure. The GDP report is produced by the U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis.

The final GDP report for Q2, 2007, which will contain the most authoritative data for the second quarter, will be released on September 27, 2007.

The GDP is a very broad measure of economic activity for the entire United States, covering all sectors of the economy. The Commerce Department defines real GDP as, "the output of goods and services produced by labor and property located in the United States."

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Productivity and Labor Cost Report for Q2, 2007 Released Today (Preliminary)

The Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released its quarterly report on Productivity and Unit Labor Costs for the second quarter of 2007 (preliminary data):

Non-farm Productivity
Predicted: +2.1%
Actual: 1.8%

Unit Labor Costs
Predicted: +1.6%
Actual: +2.1%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in non-farm productivity and unit labor costs.

For non-farm productivity, a positive number represents an improvement in the efficiency of producing domestic goods and services in the U.S., and therefore can signify a favorable inflationary outlook, and vice versa.

The Unit Labor Costs report measures the costs related to producing each unit of output. A positive number can be a harbinger of rising inflation, and vice versa.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report (PDF.)

>  SITEMAP  <

Productivity and Labor Cost Report for Q1, 2007 Released Today (Revised)

The Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released its quarterly report on Productivity and Unit Labor Costs for the first quarter of 2007 (revised data):

Non-farm Productivity
Predicted: +1.0%
Actual: +1.0%

Unit Labor Costs
Predicted: +1.5%
Actual: +1.8%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in non-farm productivity and unit labor costs.

For non-farm productivity, a positive number represents an improvement in the efficiency of producing domestic goods and services in the U.S., and therefore can signify a favorable inflationary outlook, and vice versa.

The Unit Labor Costs report measures the costs related to producing each unit of output. A positive number can be a harbinger of rising inflation, and vice versa.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report (PDF.)

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of June 2, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on June 2, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +1.8%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 1.8% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in June of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Factory Orders Report for April, 2007

The U.S. Census Bureau this morning released their report on Manufacturers' Shipments, Inventories & Orders -- also known as Factory Orders -- for April, 2007:

Predicted: +0.7%
Actual: +0.3%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for both durable and nondurable goods made by from U.S. manufacturers. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Construction Spending during April, 2007

Earlier today, the U.S. Census Bureau -- which is part of the U.S. Commerce Department -- released the Construction Spending report for April, 2007:

Predicted: +0.0%
Actual: +0.1%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in new public and private construction activity for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Change from last year: -2.0%

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of May 26, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on May 26, 2007:

Predicted: 310,000
Actual: 310,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) "Preliminary" Released Today for Q1, 2007

The preliminary, real U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report for the first quarter of 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +0.8%
Actual: +0.6%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in the Gross Domestic Product for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the actual or real figure. The GDP report is produced by the U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis.

The final GDP report for Q1, 2007, which will contain the most authoritative data for the fourth quarter, will be released on June 28, 2007.

The GDP is a very broad measure of economic activity for the entire United States, covering all sectors of the economy. The Commerce Department defines real GDP as, "the output of goods and services produced by labor and property located in the United States."

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of May 26, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on May 26, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +2.4%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 2.4% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in May of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for May, 2007

The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for this month (May, 2007) was released by The Conference Board this morning:

Predicted: 105.0
Actual: 108.0

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Every month, The Conference Board sends a questionnaire to 5,000 U.S. households. Survey participants are polled about their feeling regarding the current U.S. economy, the future of the U.S. economy, and about their own fiscal circumstances. On average, 3,500 participants complete and return the 5-question survey.

The baseline "100" score for the CCI is linked to 1985 survey data.

When consumers feel good about the economy, they tend to do more spending, and vice versa.

Based in New York City, The Conference Board is a private, not-for-profit organization with a mission to, "create and disseminate knowledge about management and the marketplace to help businesses strengthen their performance and better serve society."

The CCI is almost always released on the last Tuesday of the month.

Last month, the CCI was 104.

>  SITEMAP  <

Existing Home Sales for April, 2007

The Existing Home Sales report for April, 2007 was released by The National Association of Realtors® this morning:

Predicted: 6,200,000
Actual: 5,990,000
Change from Last Month: -2.6%
Change from Last Year: -10.7%

Median Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In April, 2007: $220,900

Average Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In April, 2007: $268,400

The "actual" figure above represents the preliminary sales count of existing homes, co-ops and condominiums for last month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The monthly Existing Home Sales report is released on or around the 25^TH day of each month.

Click here to view the full NAR report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Home Sales for April, 2007

The April, 2007 New Home Sales report was released this morning:

Predicted: 860,000

Actual New Home Sales: 981,000

------------------------------------------------------

Change from Last Month: +16.2%

Change from Last Year: -10.6%

------------------------------------------------------

Median Price for a New Home during April: $229,100

Average Price for a New Home during April: $299,100


Compiled jointly by the U.S. Commerce Department and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the monthly New Home Sales report measures the number of newly-built homes with committed buyers for a given month.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The New Home Sales report is watched by economists and investors because it offers insight into the state of the U.S. housing market, and also provides data that can be used to predict sales of large household furniture and appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners and microwave ovens.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Durable Goods Orders Report for April, 2007 Released Today

The Durable Goods Orders report for April, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +1.2%
Actual: +0.6%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for durable or hard goods for immediate or future delivery from U.S. manufacturers. Examples of durable goods: cars, microwave ovens, computers -- items that are built to last 3+ years.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure. The Durable Goods Orders report is produced by the Commerce Department.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of May 19, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on May 19, 2007:

Predicted: 310,000
Actual: 311,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

2007 Hurricane Predictions

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) today released predictions for the 2007 Atlantic basin hurricane season:

Probability of an Above-Normal Hurricane Season: 75%

Probability of a Near-Normal Hurricane Season: 20%

Probability of a Below-Normal Hurricane Season: 5%

Predicted # of Named Storms: 13 to 17

Predicted # of Named Storms Becoming Hurricanes: 7 to 10

Predicted # of Named Storms Becoming Major Hurricanes: 3 to 5

Click here to view the full NOAA report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of May 19, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on May 19, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +2.0%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 2.0% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in May of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Leading Economic Indicators for April, 2007

The Conference Board report on the nation's Leading Economic Indicators for April, 2007 was released this morning:

Actual: -0.5%

The above numbers represent the month-to-month change for the nation's leading economic indicators. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The Leading Economic Indicators Index is a composite of 10 of the nation's economic data releases that's put together by The Conference Board. Statistically, the components listed below have shown a significant increase or decrease before national economic upturns or downturns, respectively:

1. The Money Supply (M2)
   
   
2. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index
   
   
3. The interest rate spread between the yield on 10-year Treasury Bonds and the Fed Funds Target Rate
   
   
4. Manufacturer's new orders for consumer goods or materials
   
   
5. Manufacturer's new orders for non-defense capital goods
   
   
6. Average weekly claims for unemployment insurance
   
   
7. Average weekly manufacturing hours
   
   
8. The Index of Consumer Expectations
   
   
9. Vendor performance
   
   
10. Building permits for new private housing

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of May 12, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on May 12, 2007:

Predicted: 310,000
Actual: 293,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Industrial Production for April, 2007

The Industrial Production numbers for April, 2007 were released by the Federal Reserve this morning:

Industrial Production:
Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.7%

Capacity Utilization Rate:
Predicted: 81.5%
Actual: 81.6%

The above Industrial Production numbers represent the month-to-month change in physical output from mining operations, utility plants and factories for the entire United States.

The Capacity Utilization Rate percentages represent the use of available resources at mining operations, utility plants and factories for the entire United States last month.

The "predicted" figures are what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Federal Reserve report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Housing Starts in April, 2007

The U.S. Commerce Department this morning released the Housing Starts report for April, 2007:

Housing Starts:
Predicted: 1,475,000
Actual: 1,528,000
From Last Month: +2.5%
From One Year Ago: -16.1%

Building Permits:
Actual: 1,429,000
From Last Month: -8.9%
From One Year Ago: -28.1%


The above is a measure of initial construction of single and multi-family residential units in The United States for last month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

If you're wondering about the demand for new homes in the United States, or about the American construction industry in general, then you should pay attention to the monthly Housing Starts report. The monthly Housing Starts report also offers insight into specific types of consumer spending: when housing starts are up, demand for the stuff that a consumer would purchase for a new home (large appliances, consumer electronics, furniture, etc.) tends to also rise--and vice versa.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of May 12, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on May 12, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +2.7%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 2.7% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in May of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April, 2007

Earlier this morning, the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April, 2007:

Predicted: +0.5%
Actual: +0.4%

Below is the CPI when food and energy are subtracted from the equation:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.2%

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The above numbers represent the seasonally-adjusted, month-to-month change in prices for a specific group of goods and services that consumers buy, and is, therefore, a very important part of the overall inflation picture for the country.

The CPI for April, 2007: 206.686 (the baseline 100 score is pegged to 1982-1984 data. In other words, consumer prices have more than doubled since the early 80's)

General categories that constitute the CPI are:

• Healthcare
• Housing
• Clothing
• Communications
• Education
• Transportation
• Food & Beverages
• Recreation
• Miscellaneous Goods & Services (grooming expenses, etc.)

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Retail & Food Services Sales Report for April, 2007

The Commerce Department this morning released advanced estimates of U.S. Retail and Food Services Sales for April, 2007:

Predicted: +0.4%
Actual: -0.2%

Minus Auto Sales
Predicted: +0.4%
Actual : +0.0%


The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in total sales receipts for retailers that sell durable & non-durable goods, and retailers that provide food & beverage services.

Retail & Food Services Sales since April, 2006: +3.2%.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Producer Price Index (PPI) for April, 2007

The Producer Price Index (PPI) for April, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +0.7%
Actual: +0.7%

Below is the PPI when food and energy are subtracted from the equation:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.0%

The above numbers represent the month-to-month change in prices for a specific group of goods and capital equipment that producers buy in order to produce finished goods for consumers. The PPI is an important part of the overall inflation picture for the country because when costs go up for producers, producers will often pass those increased costs on to consumers.

The PPI is released by the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The PPI is a family or amalgamation of indexes, including The:

• All Commodities Index
• Crude Energy Materials Index
• Crude Foodstuffs & Feedstuffs Index
• Crude Materials for Further Processing Index
• Finished Goods Index
  
• Finished Consumer Foods Index
• Finished Consumer Goods Index
• Finished Consumer Goods Excluding Foods Index
• Finished Energy Goods Index
• Finished Goods: Capital Equipment Index
• Finished Goods Excluding Foods Index
• Finished Goods Less Energy Index
• Finished Goods Less Food & Energy Index
• Fuels & Related Products & Power Index
• Industrial Commodities Index
• Intermediate Energy Goods Index
• Intermediate Foods & Feeds Index
  
• Intermediate Materials: Supplies & Components Index
  

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Treasury Budget for April, 2007

The U.S. Treasury Budget monthly account for April, 2007 was released today:

Predicted: +150,000,000,000
Actual: +$177,700,000,000

The "actual" figure above represents the monthly balance on the U.S. federal government's "books" and is compiled by The Treasury Department. A positive number represents a surplus, while a negative represents a deficit.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of May 5, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on May 5, 2007:

Predicted: 315,000
Actual: 297,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

International Trade Balance Level for March, 2007

The International Trade Balance Level for March, 2007 was released by The U.S. Commerce Department this morning:

Predicted: $ -60,100,000,000
Actual: $ -63,900,000,000

The "actual" figure above represents the balance of trade -- imports vs. exports -- between the United States and all other countries, and includes both goods and services. A negative number represents a trade deficit, while a positive number represents a trade surplus.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Import and Export Price Indexes for April, 2007

The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released the price indexes for U.S. imports and exports for April, 2007 :

Import Prices
Predicted: +0.9
Actual: +1.3%

Export Prices
Actual: +0.3%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in prices for

• Imports: the cost of goods produced in other countries and sold in the U.S.
  
  
• Exports: the cost of goods produced in the U.S. and sold in other countries.
  

Together, these indexes offer insight into the status of inflation in the United States, and for the global economy as well. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The following is a clip from today's Labor Department report:

"Import Goods

The 2.8 percent increase in import prices over the past two months drove the index to the highest level recorded since petroleum prices peaked in August 2006. This was largely attributable to the price index for petroleum which rose a further 6.5 percent in April after an 8.1 percent gain in March and a 1.7 percent advance in February. Despite the recent increases, petroleum prices were down 1.8 percent over the past year. Nonpetroleum prices also rose in April, advancing 0.2 percent following a 0.3 percent increase in March. The nonpetroleum price index was up 2.9 percent over the past 12 months. Overall import prices rose 1.9 percent for the year ended in April.

The increase last month in nonpetroleum import prices was led by a 0.9 percent advance in the price index for nonpetroleum industrial supplies and materials, which followed a 1.4 percent increase in March. Higher metals prices more than offset falling prices for natural gas and chemicals. Also contributing to the rise in nonpetroleum prices was a 1.4 percent increase in foods, feeds, and beverages prices and a modest 0.1 percent advance in consumer goods prices. The increase in foods, feeds, and beverages prices was largely attributable to a 10.1 percent rise in vegetable prices.

In contrast, capital goods prices decreased for the third consecutive month, falling 0.4 percent in April. The decline was led by a 1.8 percent drop in computer prices, the largest monthly decrease for that index since a 2.2 percent drop in July 1999.

The price index for automotive vehicles was unchanged in April after recording modest 0.1 percent advances in March and February.

Export Goods

Export prices rose 0.3 percent in April following 0.6 percent and 0.8 percent increases in March and February, respectively. A 0.4 percent advance in nonagricultural prices more than offset a downturn in agricultural prices.
Prices for nonagricultural exports rose for the sixth consecutive month and advanced 3.9 percent for the year ended in April. Overall, export prices increased 4.9 percent for the same period.

The increase in nonagricultural prices was led by the continued rise in the price index for nonagricultural industrial supplies and materials, up 1.4 percent in April after advancing 1.8 percent and 2.1 percent in the two previous months. Higher prices for fuels, chemicals, and iron and steel products all contributed to the increase.

Prices for the major finished goods indexes were mixed in April. The price indexes for consumer goods and automotive vehicles increased, rising 0.5 percent and 0.1 percent, respectively. In contrast, capital goods prices declined for the second consecutive month, falling 0.1 percent in April.

Agricultural prices decreased 1.3 percent in April, the largest decline since a 1.4 percent drop in September 2005. Corn prices, which had trended upward for most of 2007, led the downturn in agricultural prices, falling 14.3 percent in April. Despite the decline, corn prices were up 39.5 percent over the past year..."

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of May 5, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on May 5, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +0.1%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 0.1% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in May of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Credit Status Report for March, 2007 Released Today

The Consumer Credit status report for March, 2007 was released by the Fed earlier this afternoon:

Actual: +$4,000,000,000 (+6.75%)

The above figures represent the month-to-month change in total outstanding, installment-based consumer credit; includes car loans and credit cards.

Click here to view the full Federal Reserve report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of April 28, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on April 28, 2007:

Predicted: 320,000
Actual: 305,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Productivity and Labor Cost Report for Q1, 2007 Released Today (Preliminary)

The Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released its quarterly report on Productivity and Unit Labor Costs for the first quarter of 2007 (preliminary data):

Non-farm Productivity
Predicted: +0.5%
Actual: 1.7%

Unit Labor Costs
Predicted: +3.9%
Actual: +0.6%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in non-farm productivity and unit labor costs.

For non-farm productivity, a positive number represents an improvement in the efficiency of producing domestic goods and services in the U.S., and therefore can signify a favorable inflationary outlook, and vice versa.

The Unit Labor Costs report measures the costs related to producing each unit of output. A positive number can be a harbinger of rising inflation, and vice versa.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report (PDF.)

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Factory Orders Report for March, 2007

The U.S. Census Bureau this morning released their report on Manufacturers' Shipments, Inventories & Orders -- also known as Factory Orders -- for March, 2007:

Predicted: +2.0%
Actual: +3.1%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for both durable and nondurable goods made by from U.S. manufacturers. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Challenger Report on Corporate Layoffs for April, 2007

Earlier today, the outplacement company Challenger released their report on corporate layoffs for April, 2007:

U.S. Job Cuts Announced during April, 2007: 70,672

When the corporate layoff numbers are high, consumer spending may decline, since there are less people with steady jobs.

When corporate layoffs are low, this can mean that the job market is relatively tight, which can be a harbinger of wage inflation.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Motor Vehicle Sales Report for April, 2007

The Domestic Motor Vehicle Sales report for April, 2007 was released this afternoon:

Predicted: 12,300,000
Actual: 12,400,000

The above figures represent unit sales of American-made cars, minivans, SUV's and light trucks. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of April 28, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on April 28, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +0.2%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 0.2% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in April of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Construction Spending during March, 2007

Earlier today, the U.S. Census Bureau -- which is part of the U.S. Commerce Department -- released the Construction Spending report for March, 2007:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.1%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in new public and private construction activity for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Change from last year: -2.0%

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Sentiment for April, 2007

Consumer Sentiment for April, 2007:

Actual: 87.1

The Consumer Sentiment Index is compiled on a monthly basis by the University of Michigan; 500 U.S. households are queried about their own financial circumstances and about the economy in general. 200 questions are asked, e.g. "Do you think that right now is a good time to purchase a major household item, like a new microwave oven, TV set, or a new sofa?"

The Consumer Sentiment Index uses a 1966 baseline, i.e. for 1966, the Consumer Sentiment Index = 100. So any number that is below the 1966 baseline of 100 means that the folks who were polled recently aren't as optimistic about the U.S. economy as the sample that was polled back in 1966.

The Consumer Sentiment Index is similar to the Consumer Confidence Index in that they both measure consumer attitudes and offer insight into consumer spending.

Last month, the Consumer Sentiment Index was 88.4.

>  SITEMAP  <

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) "Advance" Released Today for Q1, 2007

U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) numbers for the first quarter of 2007 were released this morning by the Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis:

Predicted: +1.8%
Actual: +1.3%

The above percentages represent the quarter-to-quarter change in the Gross Domestic Product for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The GDP is a very broad measure of economic activity for the entire United States, covering all sectors of the economy.

The "advance" estimates are based on data that are incomplete or subject to future revision. Next month, the Commerce Department will release a "preliminary" report for the above-referenced quarter, which will contain more accurate data. A "final" GDP report will be released later this year, which will contain the most accurate and authoritative data on the above-referenced quarter.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of April 21, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on April 21, 2007:

Predicted: 329,000
Actual: 321,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Home Sales for March, 2007

The March, 2007 New Home Sales report was released this morning:

Predicted: 890,000

Actual New Home Sales: 858,000

------------------------------------------------------

Change from Last Month: +2.6%

Change from Last Year: -23.5%

------------------------------------------------------

Median Price for a New Home during March: $254,000

Average Price for a New Home during March: $330,900


Compiled jointly by the U.S. Commerce Department and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the monthly New Home Sales report measures the number of newly-built homes with committed buyers for a given month.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The New Home Sales report is watched by economists and investors because it offers insight into the state of the U.S. housing market, and also provides data that can be used to predict sales of large household furniture and appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners and microwave ovens.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Durable Goods Orders Report for March, 2007 Released Today

The Durable Goods Orders report for March, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +2.2%
Actual: +3.4%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for durable or hard goods for immediate or future delivery from U.S. manufacturers. Examples of durable goods: cars, microwave ovens, computers -- items that are built to last 3+ years.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure. The Durable Goods Orders report is produced by the Commerce Department.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for April, 2007

The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for this month (April, 2007) was released by The Conference Board this morning:

Predicted: 105.0
Actual: 104.0

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Every month, The Conference Board sends a questionnaire to 5,000 U.S. households. Survey participants are polled about their feeling regarding the current U.S. economy, the future of the U.S. economy, and about their own fiscal circumstances. On average, 3,500 participants complete and return the 5-question survey.

The baseline "100" score for the CCI is linked to 1985 survey data.

When consumers feel good about the economy, they tend to do more spending, and vice versa.

Based in New York City, The Conference Board is a private, not-for-profit organization with a mission to, "create and disseminate knowledge about management and the marketplace to help businesses strengthen their performance and better serve society."

The CCI is almost always released on the last Tuesday of the month.

Last month, the CCI was 107.2.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of April 21, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on April 21, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: -0.2%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are down by 0.2% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in April of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Existing Home Sales for March, 2007

The Existing Home Sales report for March, 2007 was released by The National Association of Realtors® this morning:

Predicted: 6,400,000
Actual: 6,120,000
Change from Last Month: -8.4%
Change from Last Year: -11.3%

Median Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In March, 2007: $217,000

Average Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In March, 2007: $263,500

The "actual" figure above represents the preliminary a sales count of existing homes, co-ops and condominiums for last month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The monthly Existing Home Sales report is released on or around the 25^TH day of each month.

Click here to view the full NAR report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Leading Economic Indicators for March, 2007

The Conference Board report on the nation's Leading Economic Indicators for March, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.1%

The above numbers represent the month-to-month change for the nation's leading economic indicators. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The Leading Economic Indicators Index is a composite of 10 of the nation's economic data releases that's put together by The Conference Board. Statistically, the components listed below have shown a significant increase or decrease before national economic upturns or downturns, respectively:

1. The Money Supply (M2)
   
   
2. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index
   
   
3. The interest rate spread between the yield on 10-year Treasury Bonds and the Fed Funds Target Rate
   
   
4. Manufacturer's new orders for consumer goods or materials
   
   
5. Manufacturer's new orders for non-defense capital goods
   
   
6. Average weekly claims for unemployment insurance
   
   
7. Average weekly manufacturing hours
   
   
8. The Index of Consumer Expectations
   
   
9. Vendor performance
   
   
10. Building permits for new private housing

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of April 14, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on April 14, 2007:

Predicted: 320,000
Actual: 339,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Industrial Production for March, 2007

The Industrial Production numbers for March, 2007 were released by the Federal Reserve this morning:

Industrial Production:
Predicted: +0.0%
Actual: -0.2%

Capacity Utilization Rate:
Predicted: 81.9%
Actual: 81.4%

The above Industrial Production numbers represent the month-to-month change in physical output from mining operations, utility plants and factories for the entire United States.

The Capacity Utilization Rate percentages represent the use of available resources at mining operations, utility plants and factories for the entire United States last month.

The "predicted" figures are what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Federal Reserve report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of April 14, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on April 14, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +0.2%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 0.2% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in April of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Housing Starts in March, 2007

The U.S. Commerce Department this morning released the Housing Starts report for March, 2007:

Housing Starts:
Predicted: 1,490,000
Actual: 1,518,000
From Last Month: +0.8%
From One Year Ago: -23.0%

Building Permits:
Actual: 1,544,000
From Last Month: +0.8%
From One Year Ago: -25.9%


The above is a measure of initial construction of single and multi-family residential units in The United States for last month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

If you're wondering about the demand for new homes in the United States, or about the American construction industry in general, then you should pay attention to the monthly Housing Starts report. The monthly Housing Starts report also offers insight into specific types of consumer spending: when housing starts are up, demand for the stuff that a consumer would purchase for a new home (large appliances, consumer electronics, furniture, etc.) tends to also rise--and vice versa.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March, 2007

Earlier this morning, the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March, 2007:

Predicted: +0.6%
Actual: +0.6%

Below is the CPI when food and energy are subtracted from the equation:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.1%

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The above numbers represent the seasonally-adjusted, month-to-month change in prices for a specific group of goods and services that consumers buy, and is, therefore, a very important part of the overall inflation picture for the country.

The CPI for March, 2007: 205.352 (the baseline 100 score is pegged to 1982-1984 data. In other words, consumer prices have more than doubled since the early 80's)

General categories that constitute the CPI are:

• Healthcare
• Housing
• Clothing
• Communications
• Education
• Transportation
• Food & Beverages
• Recreation
• Miscellaneous Goods & Services (grooming expenses, etc.)

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Retail & Food Services Sales Report for March, 2007

The Commerce Department this morning released advanced estimates of U.S. Retail and Food Services Sales for March, 2007:

Predicted: +0.6%
Actual: +0.7%

Minus Auto Sales
Predicted: +0.9%
Actual : +0.8%


The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in total sales receipts for retailers that sell durable & non-durable goods, and retailers that provide food & beverage services.

Retail & Food Services Sales since March, 2006: +3.8%.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full report.

>  SITEMAP  <

International Trade Balance Level for February, 2007

The International Trade Balance Level for February, 2007 was released by The U.S. Commerce Department this morning:

Predicted: $ -60,300,000,000
Actual: $ -58,400,000,000

The "actual" figure above represents the balance of trade -- imports vs. exports -- between the United States and all other countries, and includes both goods and services. A negative number represents a trade deficit, while a positive number represents a trade surplus.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Producer Price Index (PPI) for March, 2007

The Producer Price Index (PPI) for March, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +0.7%
Actual: +1.0%

Below is the PPI when food and energy are subtracted from the equation:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.0%

The above numbers represent the month-to-month change in prices for a specific group of goods and capital equipment that producers buy in order to produce finished goods for consumers. The PPI is an important part of the overall inflation picture for the country because when costs go up for producers, producers will often pass those increased costs on to consumers.

The PPI is released by the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The PPI is a family or amalgamation of indexes, including The:

• All Commodities Index
• Crude Energy Materials Index
• Crude Foodstuffs & Feedstuffs Index
• Crude Materials for Further Processing Index
• Finished Goods Index
  
• Finished Consumer Foods Index
• Finished Consumer Goods Index
• Finished Consumer Goods Excluding Foods Index
• Finished Energy Goods Index
• Finished Goods: Capital Equipment Index
• Finished Goods Excluding Foods Index
• Finished Goods Less Energy Index
• Finished Goods Less Food & Energy Index
• Fuels & Related Products & Power Index
• Industrial Commodities Index
• Intermediate Energy Goods Index
• Intermediate Foods & Feeds Index
  
• Intermediate Materials: Supplies & Components Index
  

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of April 7, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on April 7, 2007:

Predicted: 320,000
Actual: 342,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Import and Export Price Indexes for March, 2007

The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released the price indexes for U.S. imports and exports for March, 2007 :

Import Prices
Predicted: +0.9
Actual: +1.7%

Export Prices
Actual: +0.7%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in prices for

• Imports: the cost of goods produced in other countries and sold in the U.S.
  
  
• Exports: the cost of goods produced in the U.S. and sold in other countries.
  

Together, these indexes offer insight into the status of inflation in the United States, and for the global economy as well. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The following is a clip from today's Labor Department report:

"Import Goods

The 1.7 percent rise in March was the largest increase since May 2006. The price index for petroleum increased 9.0 percent in March following a 0.6 percent rise in February, and was the largest one-month jump since April 2006. The two consecutive advances in petroleum prices followed declines in four of the previous five months. Petroleum prices increased 2.4 percent over the past year. Nonpetroleum prices increased 0.3 percent in March, following a modest 0.1 percent advance in February. The price index for nonpetroleum imports increased 2.9 percent over the past 12 months while overall import prices advanced 2.8 percent for the same period.

The March increase in nonpetroleum prices was led by a 1.3 percent advance in prices for nonpetroleum industrial supplies and materials. The increase in nonpetroleum industrial supplies and materials was driven by higher metals and natural gas prices. The price index for unfinished metals increased 2.4 percent in March and 25.3 percent over the past 12 months.

Increases in the price indexes for consumer goods and automotive vehicles also contributed to the March rise in nonpetroleum prices, advancing 0.2 percent and 0.1 percent, respectively. For the year ended in March, consumer goods prices increased 1.8 percent and automotive vehicles prices rose 1.1 percent.

In contrast, capital goods prices and prices for foods, feeds, and beverages decreased in March. The price index for capital goods ticked down 0.1 percent after falling 0.2 percent in February. Foods, feeds, and beverages prices fell 0.1 percent, the first decline since June 2006. Lower vegetables prices were primarily responsible for the decrease.


Export Goods

Export prices rose 0.7 percent for the second consecutive month, as both agricultural prices and nonagricultural prices contributed to the advance. Agricultural prices increased 2.1 percent for the month and 20.2 percent over the past year. Higher corn, vegetables, meat, and wheat prices all contributed to the increase. Nonagricultural prices rose 0.6 percent for the month and 4.2 percent for the year ended in March. Overall export prices rose 5.3 percent for the March 2006-2007 period, the largest 12-month increase since September 1995.

A 1.9 percent increase in nonagricultural industrial supplies and materials prices was the largest contributor to the rise in nonagricultural prices. The advance followed a 2.0 percent increase in February and was driven by higher prices for metals, fuels, and chemicals. Over the past 12 months, the index rose 11.0 percent.

Prices for each of the major finished goods areas recorded little movement for the second consecutive month. Automotive vehicles prices increased a modest 0.1 percent for the second consecutive month. Prices for capital goods and consumer goods were unchanged in March after both indexes fell 0.1 percent in February. For the year ended in March, consumer goods prices increased 2.4 percent, automotive vehicles prices increased 1.4 percent, and capital goods prices increased 0.8 percent."

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Treasury Budget for March, 2007

The U.S. Treasury Budget monthly account for March, 2007 was released today:

Predicted: -89,000,000,000
Actual: -$96,300,000,000

The "actual" figure above represents the monthly balance on the U.S. federal government's "books" and is compiled by The Treasury Department. A positive number represents a surplus, while a negative represents a deficit.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of April 7, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on April 7, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +4.9%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 4.9% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in April of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Credit Status Report for February, 2007 Released Today

The Consumer Credit status report for February, 2007 was released by the Fed earlier this afternoon:

Actual: +$3,000,000,000

The above figures represent the month-to-month change in total outstanding, installment-based consumer credit; includes car loans and credit cards.

Click here to view the full Federal Reserve report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of March 31, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on March 31, 2007:

Predicted: 317,000
Actual: 321,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Factory Orders Report for February, 2007

The U.S. Census Bureau this morning released their report on Manufacturers' Shipments, Inventories & Orders -- also known as Factory Orders -- for February, 2007:

Predicted: +1.7%
Actual: +1.0%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for both durable and nondurable goods made by from U.S. manufacturers. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Challenger Report on Corporate Layoffs for March, 2007

Earlier today, the outplacement company Challenger released their report on corporate layoffs for March, 2007:

U.S. Job Cuts Announced during March, 2007: 48,997

When the corporate layoff numbers are high, consumer spending may decline, since there are less people with steady jobs.

When corporate layoffs are low, this can mean that the job market is relatively tight, which can be a harbinger of wage inflation.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Motor Vehicle Sales Report for March, 2007

The Domestic Motor Vehicle Sales report for March, 2007 was released this afternoon:

Predicted: 12,700,000
Actual: 12,200,000

The above figures represent unit sales of American-made cars, minivans, SUV's and light trucks. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of March 31, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on March 31, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +4.7%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 4.7% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in March of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Construction Spending during February, 2007

Earlier today, the U.S. Census Bureau -- which is part of the U.S. Commerce Department -- released the Construction Spending report for February, 2007:

Predicted: -1.0%
Actual: +0.3%

Change from last year: -2.4%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in new public and private construction activity for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Sentiment for March, 2007

Consumer Sentiment for March, 2007:

Predicted: 88.8
Actual: 88.4

The Consumer Sentiment Index is compiled on a monthly basis by the University of Michigan; 500 U.S. households are queried about their own financial circumstances and about the economy in general. 200 questions are asked, e.g. "Do you think that right now is a good time to purchase a major household item, like a new microwave oven, TV set, or a new sofa?"

The Consumer Sentiment Index uses a 1966 baseline, i.e. for 1966, the Consumer Sentiment Index = 100. So any number that is below the 1966 baseline of 100 means that the folks who were polled recently aren't as optimistic about the U.S. economy as the sample that was polled back in 1966.

The Consumer Sentiment Index is similar to the Consumer Confidence Index in that they both measure consumer attitudes and offer insight into consumer spending.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Last month, the Consumer Sentiment Index was 91.3.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of March 24, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on March 24, 2007:

Predicted: 320,000
Actual: 308,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Durable Goods Orders Report for February, 2007 Released Today

The Durable Goods Orders report for February, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +3.4%
Actual: +2.5%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for durable or hard goods for immediate or future delivery from U.S. manufacturers. Examples of durable goods: cars, microwave ovens, computers -- items that are built to last 3+ years.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure. The Durable Goods Orders report is produced by the Commerce Department.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for March, 2007

The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for this month (March, 2007) was released by The Conference Board this morning:

Predicted: 107.0
Actual: 107.2

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Every month, The Conference Board sends a questionnaire to 5,000 U.S. households. Survey participants are polled about their feeling regarding the current U.S. economy, the future of the U.S. economy, and about their own fiscal circumstances. On average, 3,500 participants complete and return the 5-question survey.

The baseline "100" score for the CCI is linked to 1985 survey data.

When consumers feel good about the economy, they tend to do more spending, and vice versa.

Based in New York City, The Conference Board is a private, not-for-profit organization with a mission to, "create and disseminate knowledge about management and the marketplace to help businesses strengthen their performance and better serve society."

The CCI is almost always released on the last Tuesday of the month.

Last month, the CCI was 112.5.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of March 24, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on March 24, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +4.3%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 4.3% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in March of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Home Sales for February, 2007

The February, 2007 New Home Sales report was released this morning:

Predicted: 980,000

Actual New Home Sales: 848,000

------------------------------------------------------

Change from Last Month: -3.9%

Change from Last Year: -18.3%

------------------------------------------------------

February, 2007 New Home Sales: Median Price: $250,000

February, 2007 New Home Sales: Average Price: $331,000


Compiled jointly by the U.S. Commerce Department and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the monthly New Home Sales report measures the number of newly-built homes with committed buyers for a given month.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The New Home Sales report is watched by economists and investors because it offers insight into the state of the U.S. housing market, and also provides data that can be used to predict sales of large household furniture and appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners and microwave ovens.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Existing Home Sales for February, 2007

The Existing Home Sales report for February, 2007 was released by The National Association of Realtors® this morning:

Predicted: 6,260,000
Actual: 6,690,000
Change from Last Month: +3.9%
Change from Last Year: -3.6%

Median Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In February, 2007: $212,800

Average Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In February, 2007: $260,100


The U.S. Existing Home Sales report is a sales count of existing homes, co-ops and condominiums for a given month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The monthly Existing Home Sales report is released on or around the 25^TH day of each month.

Click here to view the full NAR report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Leading Economic Indicators for February, 2007

The Conference Board report on the nation's Leading Economic Indicators for February, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: -0.5%
Actual: -0.5%

The above numbers represent the month-to-month change for the nation's leading economic indicators. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The Leading Economic Indicators Index is a composite of 10 of the nation's economic data releases that's put together by The Conference Board. Statistically, the components listed below have shown a significant increase or decrease before national economic upturns or downturns, respectively:

1. The Money Supply (M2)
   
   
2. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index
   
   
3. The interest rate spread between the yield on 10-year Treasury Bonds and the Fed Funds Target Rate
   
   
4. Manufacturer's new orders for consumer goods or materials
   
   
5. Manufacturer's new orders for non-defense capital goods
   
   
6. Average weekly claims for unemployment insurance
   
   
7. Average weekly manufacturing hours
   
   
8. The Index of Consumer Expectations
   
   
9. Vendor performance
   
   
10. Building permits for new private housing

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of March 17, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on March 17, 2007:

Predicted: 322,000
Actual: 316,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of March 17, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on March 17, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +3.7%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 3.7% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in March of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Housing Starts in February, 2007

The U.S. Commerce Department this morning released the Housing Starts report for February, 2007:

Housing Starts:
Predicted: 1,450,000
Actual: 1,525,000
From Last Month: +9.0%
From One Year Ago: -28.5%

Building Permits:
Actual: 1,532,000
From Last Month: -2.5%
From One Year Ago: -28.6%


The above is a measure of initial construction of single and multi-family residential units in The United States for last month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

If you're wondering about the demand for new homes in the United States, or about the American construction industry in general, then you should pay attention to the monthly Housing Starts report. The monthly Housing Starts report also offers insight into specific types of consumer spending: when housing starts are up, demand for the stuff that a consumer would purchase for a new home (large appliances, consumer electronics, furniture, etc.) tends to also rise--and vice versa.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Industrial Production for February, 2007

The Industrial Production numbers for February, 2007 were released by the Federal Reserve this morning:

Industrial Production:
Predicted: +0.3%
Actual: +1.0%

Capacity Utilization Rate:
Predicted: 81.3%
Actual: 82.0%

The above Industrial Production numbers represent the month-to-month change in physical output from mining operations, utility plants and factories for the entire United States.

The Capacity Utilization Rate percentages represent the use of available resources at mining operations, utility plants and factories for the entire United States last month.

The "predicted" figures are what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Federal Reserve report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February, 2007

Earlier this morning, the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February, 2007:

Predicted: +0.3%
Actual: +0.4%

Below is the CPI when food and energy are subtracted from the equation:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.2%

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The above numbers represent the seasonally-adjusted, month-to-month change in prices for a specific group of goods and services that consumers buy, and is, therefore, a very important part of the overall inflation picture for the country.

The CPI for February, 2007: 203.499 (the baseline 100 score is pegged to 1982-1984 data. In other words, consumer prices have more than doubled since the early 80's)

General categories that constitute the CPI are:

• Healthcare
• Housing
• Clothing
• Communications
• Education
• Transportation
• Food & Beverages
• Recreation
• Miscellaneous Goods & Services (grooming expenses, etc.)

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Producer Price Index (PPI) for February, 2007

The Producer Price Index (PPI) for February, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: +0.5%
Actual: +1.3%

Below is the PPI when food and energy are subtracted from the equation:

Predicted: +0.2%
Actual: +0.4%

The above numbers represent the month-to-month change in prices for a specific group of goods and capital equipment that producers buy in order to produce finished goods for consumers. The PPI is an important part of the overall inflation picture for the country because when costs go up for producers, producers will often pass those increased costs on to consumers.

The PPI is released by the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The PPI is a family or amalgamation of indexes, including The:

• All Commodities Index
• Crude Energy Materials Index
• Crude Foodstuffs & Feedstuffs Index
• Crude Materials for Further Processing Index
• Finished Goods Index
  
• Finished Consumer Foods Index
• Finished Consumer Goods Index
• Finished Consumer Goods Excluding Foods Index
• Finished Energy Goods Index
• Finished Goods: Capital Equipment Index
• Finished Goods Excluding Foods Index
• Finished Goods Less Energy Index
• Finished Goods Less Food & Energy Index
• Fuels & Related Products & Power Index
• Industrial Commodities Index
• Intermediate Energy Goods Index
• Intermediate Foods & Feeds Index
  
• Intermediate Materials: Supplies & Components Index
  

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of March 10, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on March 10, 2007:

Predicted: 325,000
Actual: 318,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Import and Export Price Indexes for February, 2007

The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics this morning released the price indexes for U.S. imports and exports for February, 2007 :

Import Prices
Predicted: +1.0
Actual: +0.2%

Export Prices
Actual: +0.7%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in prices for

• Imports: the cost of goods produced in other countries and sold in the U.S.
  
  
• Exports: the cost of goods produced in the U.S. and sold in other countries.
  

Together, these indexes offer insight into the status of inflation in the United States, and for the global economy as well. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The following is a clip from today's Labor Department report:

"Import Goods

Prices for imports increased 0.2 percent in February as a 2.0 percent increase in petroleum prices more than offset a modest decline in nonpetroleum prices. The advance in petroleum prices followed declines in four of the previous five months, and despite the February upturn petroleum prices decreased 2.6 percent over the past year. Nonpetroleum prices recorded a second consecutive 0.1 percent decline in February after rising 0.5 percent and 1.0 percent, respectively, in December and November. The price index for nonpetroleum imports advanced 2.1 percent over the past 12 months while overall import prices advanced 1.3 percent for the same period.

Decreases in the price indexes for capital goods and nonpetroleum industrial supplies and materials both contributed to the February decline in nonpetroleum prices. Prices for capital goods fell 0.3 percent, the largest monthly drop for the index since July 2005. The decrease was driven by a 0.9 percent decline in the price index for computers, peripherals, and semiconductors. Led by lower prices for lumber and some metals, nonpetroleum industrial supplies and materials prices edged down 0.1 percent in February. The decrease was tempered by an upturn in natural gas prices.

In contrast, automotive vehicles prices and prices for foods, feeds, and beverages increased in February. The price index for automotive vehicles ticked up 0.1 percent, the first change for the index since a 0.2 percent advance in October. Foods, feeds, and beverages prices continued to trend upward, rising 0.2 percent in February. Higher fish prices more than offset declining fruits and vegetables prices.

Consumer goods prices were unchanged in February following 0.3 percent increases in each of the previous two months.


Export Goods

Export prices rose 0.7 percent in February, the largest increase since June 2006, and both agricultural prices and nonagricultural prices contributed to the advance. Agricultural prices increased 2.3 percent for the month and 16.9 percent over the past year. The February advance was primarily led by higher corn and soybeans prices, although rising prices for meat, fish, fruit, and wheat also contributed to the increase. Nonagricultural prices rose 0.6 percent for the month and 3.7 percent for the year ended in February. Overall export prices rose 4.7 percent for the February 2006-2007 period.

A 2.1 percent increase for nonagricultural industrial supplies and materials prices was the largest contributor to the rise in nonagricultural prices. The advance was the largest for the index since May 2006 and was driven by higher prices for fuels, metals, and paper. Over the past 12 months, the index rose 9.6 percent.

Prices for each of the major finished goods areas recorded little movement in February. Automotive vehicles prices increased a modest 0.1 percent following 0.2 percent advances in each of the previous two months. In contrast, capital goods prices edged down 0.1 percent after increasing 0.2 percent in January. The price index for consumer goods was unchanged in February after a 0.9 percent jump the previous month."

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of March 10, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on March 10, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +3.4%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 3.4% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in March of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Retail & Food Services Sales Report for February, 2007

The Commerce Department this morning released advanced estimates of U.S. Retail and Food Services Sales for February, 2007:

Predicted: +0.3%
Actual: +0.1%

Minus Auto Sales
Predicted: +0.3%
Actual : -0.1%


The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in total sales receipts for retailers that sell durable & non-durable goods, and retailers that provide food & beverage services.

Retail & Food Services Sales since February, 2006: +3.2%.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Treasury Budget for February, 2007

The U.S. Treasury Budget monthly account for February, 2007 was released today:

Predicted: -120,000,000,000
Actual: -$120,000,000,000

The "actual" figure above represents the monthly balance on the U.S. federal government's "books" and is compiled by The Treasury Department. A positive number represents a surplus, while a negative represents a deficit.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting.

>  SITEMAP  <

International Trade Balance Level for January, 2007

The International Trade Balance Level for January, 2007 was released by The U.S. Commerce Department this morning:

Predicted: $ -59,800,000,000
Actual: $ -59,100,000,000

The "actual" figure above represents the balance of trade -- imports vs. exports -- between the United States and all other countries, and includes both goods and services. A negative number represents a trade deficit, while a positive number represents a trade surplus.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of March 3, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on March 3, 2007:

Predicted: 335,000
Actual: 328,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Credit Status Report for January, 2007 Released Today

The Consumer Credit status report for January, 2007 was released by the Fed earlier this afternoon:

Actual: +$6,500,000,000

The above figures represent the month-to-month change in total outstanding, installment-based consumer credit; includes car loans and credit cards.


Click here to view the full Federal Reserve report.

>  SITEMAP  <

U.S. Factory Orders Report for January, 2007

The U.S. Census Bureau this morning released their report on Manufacturers' Shipments, Inventories & Orders -- also known as Factory Orders -- for January, 2007:

Predicted: -4.5%
Actual: -5.6%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for both durable and nondurable goods made by from U.S. manufacturers. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Redbook Numbers for The Week of March 3, 2007

The Redbook numbers for the week that ended on March 3, 2007 were released this morning:

Redbook Sales Figures: +2.9%

The Redbook measures the weekly sales at chain stores, discount stores, and department stores -- about 9,000 stores in total -- and is therefore an important measure of current consumer spending in the U.S. The above figure represents the year-to-year change in the Redbook sales figures, so sales are up by 2.9% when compared to sales during the corresponding week back in March of 2006.

The weekly Johnson Redbook Index report is produced by Redbook Research.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Sentiment for February, 2007

Consumer Sentiment for February, 2007:

Predicted: 93.3
Actual: 91.3

The Consumer Sentiment Index is compiled on a monthly basis by the University of Michigan; 500 U.S. households are queried about their own financial circumstances and about the economy in general. 200 questions are asked, e.g. "Do you think that right now is a good time to purchase a major household item, like a new microwave oven, TV set, or a new sofa?"

The Consumer Sentiment Index uses a 1966 baseline, i.e. for 1966, the Consumer Sentiment Index = 100. So any number that is below the 1966 baseline of 100 means that the folks who were polled recently aren't as optimistic about the U.S. economy as the sample that was polled back in 1966.

The Consumer Sentiment Index is similar to the Consumer Confidence Index in that they both measure consumer attitudes and offer insight into consumer spending.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Last month, the Consumer Sentiment Index was 96.9.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Unemployment Insurance Claims for The Week of February 24, 2007

Earlier today, the Labor Department released the New Unemployment Insurance Claims report for the week that ended on February 24, 2007:

Predicted: 325,000
Actual: 338,000

The above figures represent the number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits for the entire United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Labor Department report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Challenger Report on Corporate Layoffs for February, 2007

Earlier today, the outplacement company Challenger released their report on corporate layoffs for February, 2007:

U.S. Job Cuts Announced during February, 2007: 84,014

When the corporate layoff numbers are high, consumer spending may decline, since there are less people with steady jobs.

When corporate layoffs are low, this can mean that the job market is relatively tight, which can be a harbinger of wage inflation.

>  SITEMAP  <

Construction Spending during January, 2007

Earlier today, the U.S. Census Bureau -- which is part of the U.S. Commerce Department -- released the Construction Spending report for January, 2007:

Predicted: -0.5%
Actual: -0.8%

Change from last year: -1.2%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in new public and private construction activity for the United States. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Click here to view the full Census Bureau report.

>  SITEMAP  <

New Home Sales for January, 2007

The January, 2007 New Home Sales report was released this morning:

Predicted New Home Sales for January, 2007: 1,080,000

Actual New Home Sales for January, 2007: 937,000

------------------------------------------------------

December, 2006 New Home Sales (Revised): 1,123,000

January, 2006 New Home Sales: 1,173,000

------------------------------------------------------

January, 2007 New Home Sales: Median Price: $239,800

January, 2007 New Home Sales: Average Price: $313,000


Compiled jointly by the U.S. Commerce Department and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the monthly New Home Sales report measures the number of newly-built homes with committed buyers for a given month.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The New Home Sales report is watched by economists and investors because it offers insight into the state of the U.S. housing market, and also provides data that can be used to predict sales of large household furniture and appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners and microwave ovens.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <

Existing Home Sales for January, 2007

The Existing Home Sales report for January, 2007 was released by The National Association of Realtors® this morning:

Predicted: 6,250,000
Actual: 6,460,000

Median Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In January, 2007: $210,600

Average Price for A Preowned, Single-Family
Home In January, 2007: $257,400


The U.S. Existing Home Sales report is a sales count of existing homes, co-ops and condominiums for a given month. The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

The monthly Existing Home Sales report is released on or around the 25^TH day of each month.

Click here to view the full NAR report.

>  SITEMAP  <

Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for February, 2007

The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) for this month (February, 2007) was released by The Conference Board this morning:

Predicted: 108.0
Actual: 112.5

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure.

Every month, The Conference Board sends a questionnaire to 5,000 U.S. households. Survey participants are polled about their feeling regarding the current U.S. economy, the future of the U.S. economy, and about their own fiscal circumstances. On average, 3,500 participants complete and return the 5-question survey.

The baseline "100" score for the CCI is linked to 1985 survey data.

When consumers feel good about the economy, they tend to do more spending, and vice versa.

Based in New York City, The Conference Board is a private, not-for-profit organization with a mission to, "create and disseminate knowledge about management and the marketplace to help businesses strengthen their performance and better serve society."

The CCI is almost always released on the last Tuesday of the month.

Last month, the CCI was 110.3.

>  SITEMAP  <

Durable Goods Orders Report for January, 2007 Released Today

The Durable Goods Orders report for January, 2007 was released this morning:

Predicted: -3.0%
Actual: -7.8%

The above percentages represent the month-to-month change in orders for durable or hard goods for immediate or future delivery from U.S. manufacturers. Examples of durable goods: cars, microwave ovens, computers -- items that are built to last 3+ years.

The "predicted" figure is what economists and Wall Street forecasters were expecting, while the "actual" is the true or real figure. The Durable Goods Orders report is produced by the Commerce Department.

Click here to view the full Commerce Department report (PDF).

>  SITEMAP  <