The latest U.S. macroeconomic data has painted a complex picture of the nation's economic landscape. One key datapoint saw Job Openings, as measured by the closely-watched JOLTS report, come in at 7.4 million, lower than the 8 million expected and the previous 8.04 million.
However, the U.S. Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index rose to 108.7 in October, beating the forecasted 99.5 and topping September's 98.7 reading. This uptick in consumer optimism coincides with the easing of job openings, hinting at potential shifts in the economic winds.
Short-term interest rate futures rose slightly following the data release, as traders position for the possibility of future rate cuts by the Federal Reserve.
A recent survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York showed that 10% of companies in the service sector had laid off employees due to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the last six months. At the same time, 19% expected to hire due to planned use of AI in the next six months.
We are faced with a paradox.
I think companies are waiting for more clarity about the direction of technology and the economy before hiring more employees
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I wonder if consumer confidence is related to the increased likelihood of a Trump victory. If so, they might be overestimating how much difference that will make.
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12 sats \ 1 reply \ @TomK OP 29 Oct
Could be the asset and housing bubble...
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True. Home equity is holding up a little better than many suspected (including me).
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I wonder when the numbers will turn around? Before or after inflation gets bad? Not that it isnt bad right now...
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