Business

Economy

Consumer Confidence Slips as Households Stay Cautious About Prices and Jobs

A May confidence reading shows households remain cautious about prices and jobs, even as parts of the economy continue to look steady on paper.

May 27, 2026

Workers inspect machinery on a factory floor with shipping pallets in the background.

STANDARD

Factory Survey Shows a May Rebound, but Cost Pressure Has Not Gone Away

A Richmond Fed survey showed improved factory activity in May, with stronger orders, shipments and employment, but one regional report does not settle the national manufacturing picture.

May 27, 2026

Shipping containers and customs paperwork at a warehouse loading dock.

STANDARD

Tariff Costs Are Moving From Trade Policy Into Business Planning

Tariffs are not just a Washington trade fight. For businesses, they can affect sourcing, inventory, pricing, and how much cost eventually reaches consumers.

May 25, 2026

House keys and housing documents on a kitchen counter.

STANDARD

Existing-Home Sales Show a Housing Market Still Moving Slowly

April existing-home sales show a housing market that is still active but restrained by prices, inventory and slower movement among buyers and sellers.

May 21, 2026

A factory floor representing industrial production and economic output.

STANDARD

Industrial Production Rose in April, Offering a Broader Read on the Economy

April industrial production rose 0.7%, giving readers a real-economy snapshot of factories, utilities, mining, and how much productive capacity was being used.

May 19, 2026

A grocery receipt and household budget notebook representing inflation pressure.

STANDARD

April Inflation Report Shows Why Prices Are Still Central to the Economic Story

The April CPI report showed prices rising again, with grocery costs and broader household expenses keeping inflation near the center of family budgets and economic policy debates.

May 19, 2026