Economic Indicators

The U.S. economy grew at a rate of 0.7% in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to a second estimate released on Friday by the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Diesel prices continue to rise as many farmers prepare for the spring planting season. Analysts expect prices to swell for several weeks, even after the Iran conflict ends.

The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage rose this week to 6.11%, according to the latest Freddie Mac data released Thursday. That is up from last week's reading of 6%.

President Donald Trump made light of concerns about rising oil prices, saying his priority is ensuring the "evil" Iranian regime doesn't have nuclear weapons.

Energy Secretary Wright says U.S. Navy may soon escort oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz amid Iran conflict, but military assets focused elsewhere for now.

Iran warns oil could hit $200 per barrel as U.S.-Israel strikes escalate, potentially triggering the worst energy crisis since 1970s. Gas prices could hit $5.

Inflation held steady in February, though prices for goods like beef and coffee saw notable increases while prices for eggs and smartphones declined compared with last year.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre noted a report regarding a cargo ship being struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Labor Department released the February 2026 consumer price index (CPI), which showed that inflation remained elevated above the Federal Reserve's target.

The Iran war is driving oil shock that may reshape consumer spending patterns as businesses face mounting transportation costs and difficult pricing pressures.

Strait of Hormuz reaches near standstill amid U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, forcing global shipping to reroute through Panama Canal as traffic drops.

G7 finance ministers weigh emergency oil reserve release as Middle East tensions send crude soaring above $115, threatening global economic stability.

As American drivers face spiking prices at the pump, President Donald Trump asserted that increased oil prices are a "small price to pay" to achieve peace.

U.S. economic freedom score jumps 2.6 points in Heritage Foundation index, ending a five-year decline. America ranks 22nd globally in the annual report.

Rising tensions with Iran are rippling through global oil markets, sending crude prices sharply higher and pushing U.S. gas prices up at the pump.

The February jobs report showed wage growth accelerated to 3.8% on an annual basis, outpacing economists' expectations despite an increase in the unemployment rate, BLS data showed.

The U.S. economy shed jobs to start the year, and the Labor Department reported that employment decreased by 92,000 jobs in February 2026, when economists expected a gain of 59,000.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum says the U.S.-Venezuela energy partnership is moving at "Trump speed" toward a "golden age of abundance" as American companies show interest.

U.S. layoffs dropped 55% in February to 48,307 job cuts after elevated January numbers, offering relief amid ongoing economic uncertainty and rising costs.

The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage rose this week to 6%, according to the latest Freddie Mac data released Thursday. That is up from last week's reading of 5.98%.