
The Census Bureau today reported that business applications rose by 3.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2019. This reverses the declining trend of the last five quarters and suggests that economic growth will remain strong in the coming year.
Diving Below the Surface to Find New Insights
The Census Bureau today reported that business applications rose by 3.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2019. This reverses the declining trend of the last five quarters and suggests that economic growth will remain strong in the coming year.
Historically low unemployment and rising wages indicate that the benefits of the current economic expansion are widespread, which likely will increase President Trump’s reelection chances. Data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Friday shows the labor force remains tight, with the unemployment rate at historic lows and an increase in the labor force participation rate.
Historically disadvantaged workers–who are increasingly becoming swing voters–are seeing the most benefits as employers raise wages to attract and retain workers. December marks the 17th consecutive month that average hourly earnings growth for production non-supervisory workers has been at or above 3 percent.