GDP unexpectedly shrinks, decline seen temporary

We all see what we want to see in economic reports.  That's why I rely on the message of the market rather than opinion for vision.  The message, repeated for decades in the US, has been one of increasing personal consumption in the United States.  While consumption drives the economy today,  it cannot replace investment as the driver of tomorrow's.

Chart:   Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) As A %GDP and Personal Consumption Expenditures As A %GDP Average from 1947


Headline:  GDP unexpectedly shrinks, decline seen temporary

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The economy unexpectedly contracted in the fourth quarter, but analysts said there was no reason for panic given that consumer spending and business investment picked up.

Gross domestic product fell at a 0.1 percent annual rate, its weakest performance since the economy emerged from recession in 2009, the Commerce Department said on Wednesday.

Source: more


-------------------------------------

Insights is intended to reflect excellence in effort and content. Donations will help maintain this goal and defray the operational costs. Paypal, a leading provider of secure online money transfers, will handle the donations.Thank you for your contribution