Written by Steven Hansen A quick recap to the January 2014 trade data released today shows a mixed picture of the economy – with the unadjusted data saying import growth decelerated month-over-month.
Author Archives: Steven Hansen
BLS Jobs Situation Above Expectations in February 2014
Written by Steven Hansen The February 2014 BLS jobs report headlines were better than expected. But the unadjusted data says this report is mediocre. As I am a trend person, the growth trend lines are decelerating.
Joe Sixpack’s Situation in 4Q2013: Joe Is Not Feeling Rich
Written by Steven Hansen A Federal Reserve data release (Z.1 Flow of Funds) for 3Q2013 provides insight into the finances of the average household – and our beloved “Joe Sixpack”. Our modeled “Joe Sixpack” – who owns a house and has a job, and essentially no other asset. We have also modeled a Joe who …
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January 2014 Manufacturing Again Had a Soft Month as Forecast
Written by Steven Hansen US Census says manufacturing new orders declined in January. Our analysis agrees showing deceleration of the rolling averages. The headwind this month was civilian aircraft.
Productivity 4Q2013 (Final): Productivity Up Less, Labor Costs Down Less
Written by Steven Hansen A simple summary of this release is that the rate of productivity growth is up , whilst the rate of growth of labor costs is contracting. However, this final report has significantly reduced the productivity growth and labor cost contraction.