Today's Economy Rising Default Rate Likely Despite Powerful High-Yield Rally Only 4% of forecasters agree with market on likely course of fed policy. Economic Roundup: The North Star for Economists Shutdown has us flying a little blind but initial claims suggest the economy is chugging along. The Shutdown and January U.S. Employment How furloughed workers who are not working nor being paid are counted will be key. Europe Daily Briefing: Protests Hammer French Factory Growth The expected 1% q/q decline in Q4 creates favorable base effects for early 2019. » VIEW MORE TODAY'S ECONOMY
Commentary The Shutdown and the Road to Recession The partial U.S. government closure is unlikely to stop the expansion, but there are potholes ahead. Saudi Arabia Outlook: The Slow, Steady Road to Reform Moving away from oil dependency is necessary, but it will take time and effort. Another Look at Direct and Spillover Costs of the Shutdown Neither U.S. policy uncertainty nor partisan conflict appear to pose a significant issue. Venezuela Outlook: Recession Enters a Sixth Year Hyperinflation shows no sign of abating. » VIEW MORE COMMENTARY
Today's Economic Indicators
Canada RPS House Price Index Dec. 2018: 1.1% France Industrial Production Nov. 2018: -1.3% In line with expectations, France's industrial production plunged by 1.3% m/m in November, fully reversing a diametrically opposed rise in October. Italy Retail Sales Nov. 2018: 0.7% Italian retail sales moved higher in November, rising 0.7% m/m, following a 0.2% gain in October. United States Jobless Claims January 05: 216,000 This year is shaping up to be another good one for the U.S. labor market, as initial claims for unemployment insurance benefits remain low. Canada New Housing Price Index Nov. 2018: 0.0% Canadian new-house price appreciation is at a standstill. Canada Building Permits Nov. 2018: 2.6% The value of building permits increased in November, driven by strength in commercial construction intentions. Russian Federation Consumer Price Index Dec. 2018: 4.3% The Russian consumer price index rose 4.3% year over year in December, rising 0.5 percentage point above the prior reading and 0.3 percentage point above the central bank’s target rate of inflation. United States St. Louis Fed Financial Stress Index January 04: -0.67 Financial stress decreased in the week ended January 4, the first decline since November. United States Natural Gas Storage Report January 04: -91 bil cubic feet The decline in natural gas inventories was greater than analyst expectations, which will put some upward pressure on gas prices. China Monetary Aggregates Dec. 2018: China Foreign Trade Dec. 2018: Australia Retail Sales Nov. 2018: » VIEW MORE ECONOMIC INDICATORS |