The Journal. Is the Economy… OK?
186 snips
May 6, 2025 
Jeanne Whalen, a seasoned WSJ journalist specializing in economic coverage, dives into the complexities of the U.S. economy. She highlights the surprising job growth amidst recession fears, debunking the notion that all indicators are bleak. While discussing the recent GDP contraction, Jeanne presents the counterargument that economic health may be stronger than suggested. Listeners learn about the significance of various economic indicators and the delicate impact of tariff policies on business confidence. It's a refreshing look at the economy's resilience.
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Economy Holding Steady Amid Shocks
- The U.S. economy is currently holding steady despite shocks like tariffs and government cuts.
- The recent GDP decline partly reflects an unusual surge in imports tied to tariff fears, masking stronger underlying growth.
Tariffs Distort GDP Numbers
- GDP shrinkage was affected by an inflated surge in imports due to tariff fears.
- This surge caused the reported contraction but doesn't fully reflect the economy's actual production levels.
Economy in Transition Phase
- The current economic data reflects a transition period influenced by both Trump and Biden administrations.
- It takes time for presidential policies to fully impact the economy's trajectory.