Economy

During the last quarter of 2024, the economy of the United States grew at an annualized pace of 2.3%, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. This expansion rate was below the expected 2.6% and signaled a slowdown compared to the 3.1% increase noted in the previous quarter.Primary Factors of Economic ExpansionGrowth in the fourth quarter was mainly fueled by a rise in consumer spending and government outlays. As a major factor of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), consumer spending stayed strong, indicating continued household consumption. Government outlays also played a positive role, with significant boosts in federal and state…

In January 2025, the U.S. economy displayed a blend of resilience and new challenges appearing in different sectors.Trends in Business Activity and EmploymentThe S&P Global Flash U.S. Composite PMI Output Index, which tracks the manufacturing and services sectors, fell to 52.4 in January from 55.4 in December, reaching its lowest point since April. Even with this reduction, the index stayed above the 50 mark, suggesting ongoing expansion. The deceleration was mainly due to the services sector, whereas manufacturing saw growth for the first time in seven months, spurred by anticipated loosened regulations and reduced taxes under the current administration. Remarkably,…