China's economy is doing better than expected. Retail sales, industrial production, and investment all grew more than analysts predicted in the first two months of the year. Online retail sales also increased significantly. However, consumer demand is still weak, and investment in real estate has fallen. The government is considering further policy easing measures to boost growth.
The US stock market fell Thursday due to concerns about higher-than-expected producer prices, which measure business costs. This suggests that the Federal Reserve might not cut interest rates as quickly as expected, as inflation remains elevated. The drop was also influenced by a decline in Nvidia shares and a surge in Robinhood Markets shares after it reported a rise in user funds.
Wholesale prices rose faster than expected in February, indicating ongoing inflation concerns. The producer price index jumped 0.6%, largely due to a surge in energy costs. Retail sales also increased but fell short of estimates. Meanwhile, jobless claims declined slightly. This data highlights the challenges facing the US economy as inflation remains high.
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour had a positive economic impact in the U.S., boosting retail sales and GDP slightly. The tour's effect was significant in cities where it performed, driving up lodging prices, occupancy rates, and hotel revenues. While the tour's macro impact on national-level data was minimal, local economic benefits were substantial. However, the tour's impact may be more significant in smaller economies like Sweden and Singapore.
Consumer spending rebounded noticeably in February, despite being corrected for the extra spending day, leap day. The Retail Monitor's core measure, excluding autos, gas, and restaurants, rose 0.95%. Sporting goods, hobby, and health and personal care stores performed exceptionally well, with online and nonstore sales continuing to surge.
