Assignment:
Research the current value of the following economic indicators (For the United States):
1. GDP-
2. CPI-
3. Nonfarm payroll employment-
4. Industrial production/capacity utilization-
5. Advance report on durable goods shipments (230.0 billion), new orders (51.4 man, 54.6 non man), and unfilled orders
6. Housing starts
7. Retail sales-
8. S&P 500 Stock Index-
Based on your research, write a paper of 500-750 words that addresses the following:
1. Analyze the current macroeconomic situation.
2. Discuss expectations of changes in economic, financial, and international conditions in the near future.
3. Identify any economic issues of special concern.
4. Recommend whether the FOMC should raise, lower, or keep short-term interest rates the same.