According to analysts at ING explain that at 3.5%, the latest US quarterly growth figure will be welcome news for President Trump, who appears keen to play up his administration’s economic credentials to rally the Republican vote ahead of a challenging mid-term election in a couple of weeks’ time.
Key Quotes
“Unsurprisingly, it was another exceptionally strong quarter for the US consumer, where the combination of tax cuts, rising wages and a tight jobs market saw spending contribute 2.7% to the overall economic growth figure.”
“Admittedly, the latest quarterly accounts were also given a sizable boost by inventories, which helped offset a particularly sharp correction in net exports.”
“At this stage we don’t see any real reason to expect growth to fall sharply, particularly given that the fourth quarter is likely to be boosted by rebuilding and clean-up efforts following the recent hurricanes int he south-east.”
“That said, there is a risk that, as we move into 2019, growth begins to ease. Tighter financial conditions – driven by higher interest rates and the stronger dollar – may start to bite, while persistent trade uncertainties and fading fiscal tailwinds may also begin to restrain activity more noticeably.”
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