Economy News
Economic news covering Fed interest rate decisions, inflation data, jobs reports, GDP growth, and macroeconomic trends affecting the stock market.
Record Diphtheria Outbreak Strains Remote Health Infrastructure
Australia's record diphtheria outbreak with 538 cases in 2026 prompts A$13M response, highlighting remote housing and health infrastructure gaps. Investors eye public health spending.
Social Security 2027 COLA Projected at 3.4%-3.6%, Adding Up to $60B
Private estimates for the 2027 Social Security COLA range from 3.4% to 3.6%, which could increase annual benefits by up to $60 billion.
Colombia's $9.6B Quake Bill Strains Bonds as Peso Holds Firm
Colombia's earthquake recovery is estimated at $9.58 billion, pressuring bonds as yields rise 30 bps. The peso remains firm, supported by steady coffee exports and high interest rates.
Fed Pause Odds Tested by Tuesday's Data Trio
Tuesday's data burst — import prices, housing starts, and industrial production — will test market expectations for a Fed pause in September.
China's Record Loan Drop Fuels Stimulus Debate as Demand Falters
China's new yuan loans saw a record RMB340 billion decline in July, highlighting weak demand. Markets now await activity data and the LPR decision for policy cues.
Rhine at Record Low: German Industry Faces 1% Output Hit
The Rhine at Kaub hit a record low of 8 cm, threatening a 1% drop in German industrial output. Freight rates soared as firms shift to trucks and rail.
2027 Social Security COLA Forecast Climbs to 3.6%, Adding $60B in Benefits
A leading projection for the 2027 Social Security COLA has risen to 3.6%, which would add nearly $60 billion to annual benefits. The July CPI-W came in 3.1% above the baseline.
Small Business Optimism Hits 11-Month High, Labor Shortages Persist
U.S. small business optimism climbed to an 11-month high in July, but labor shortages and rising borrowing costs could temper growth prospects.
RBA Holds Cash Rate at 4.35%, Cuts Inflation Forecast, Sees Higher Jobless Rate
The RBA left the cash rate at 4.35% unanimously, lowered December inflation forecast to 3.3%, and lifted unemployment outlook to 4.5%.
China's Inflation Slowdown Widens Factory Margin Squeeze
China's July inflation missed expectations, with CPI up 0.5% and PPI at 3.5%. The 5.6-point gap between factory-gate and consumer prices highlights ongoing margin pressure.
Social Security COLA 2027 Could Surpass Forecasts, Adding $63B
The 2027 Social Security COLA is projected at 3.6%-3.8%, potentially adding up to $63B in payouts, above the Trustees' forecast. CPI data due Wednesday.