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Marketplace

Hope or fear?

Feb 27, 2025
January saw a rise in capital goods orders, leaving experts pondering if businesses are gearing up to invest or acting out of tariff-induced fear. Unemployment claims are creeping up, hinting at a shaky labor market amid economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, the med spa industry thrives, fusing beauty and medical care in a booming market influenced by social media. On the rebuilding front, Malibu homeowners push for fire-resilient designs after the Woolsey Fire, tackling both innovative construction methods and labor shortages.
25:30

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The rise in capital goods orders indicates potential business growth, though fears of tariffs may be driving urgency in purchases.
  • An increase in unemployment claims highlights underlying economic concerns, suggesting caution amid a generally strong labor market.

Deep dives

Economic Growth and Durable Goods Orders

The economy's growth in the fourth quarter of the previous year showed an annualized rate of 2.3 percent, which aligned with expectations but indicated a slower pace compared to the third quarter. This episode highlighted the significance of durable goods orders, which increased in January, excluding volatile sectors like defense and airplanes. A rise in these orders often serves as a positive indicator for manufacturers, suggesting a boost in business investment and productivity, particularly as companies expand their manufacturing capabilities. However, concerns about rising tariffs have led some businesses to accelerate their equipment purchases, reflecting a sense of urgency driven by potential cost increases.

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