GDP in fourth-quarter raised to 3.4% due to stronger consumer spending

The final reading of U.S. growth in the 2023 fourth quarter was raised to a 3.4% annual pace, reflecting a surprisingly resilient U.S. economy. 


 
Consumer sentiment climbs to 2 1/2-year high as inflation eases

Americans expressed more confidence that inflation would ease and reduce the financial strain on households. 


 
Chicago business-activity index weakens for fourth straight month in March

The Chicago Business Barometer, also known as the Chicago PMI, weakened further in March, dropping to 41.4 from 44 in the prior month. Economists polled by the Wall Street Journal forecast a 45 reading. 


 
Dow Wavers After Inching Closer to 40000

Stocks were little changed but the S&P 500 remained on track to notch its best start to a year since 2019. 


 
Jobless claims fall slightly to 210,000, underscoring strong labor market

The number of Americans who applied for unemployment benefits last week fell slightly to 210,000 and continued to hover at very low levels in a sign of strength for the economy. 


 
Pending home sales inch up in February

U.S. pending home sales rose 1.6% in February, the National Association of Realtors said on Thursday. 


 
Week Ahead for FX, Bonds

U.S. monthly jobs data return to the spotlight as investors expect the Federal Reserve will lower rates over coming months, while in Europe investors will focus on German inflation figures. 


 
German Retail Sales Unexpectedly Slide

German retail sales fell 1.9% in February against forecasts for a modest rise, with the weakness symbolizing the woes in the sector as consumer confidence remains sluggish. 


 
China to Lift Tariffs on Australian Wine, as Frosty Relations Thaw

China will lift tariffs on imports of Australian wine after more than three years, marking steadily warming ties between the countries and testing the appetite of Australia's producers to return to one of the world's most lucrative markets. 


 
Bonds Got Relabeled. Now Millions of Americans Get Higher Electric Bills.

After Bloomberg reclassified certain utility bonds, borrowing costs rose.


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

03-28-24 1115ET