Economic Trends and Challenges

This chapter analyzes U.S. economic growth for the last quarter, emphasizing a 2.3% growth rate driven by consumer spending and forecasts uncertainties for the current year. It also explores the decline in consumer spending heading into the first quarter, particularly in auto sales, while discussing inflation concerns related to rising costs in housing materials. Additionally, the impact of tariffs on imports and the challenges facing the housing market as it enters the spring season are thoroughly examined.