Consumer spending is weakening as inflation rises and confidence falls, raising economic concerns and intensifying the Fed’s debate over whether to cut interest rates. More

Data disruptions delayed the release of September’s employment figures. Hiring was unexpectedly brisk, but concentrated in a few industries, while the unemployment rate increased. More

Inflation rose modestly in September, with CPI up 3.0%—the highest since January—while softer data support expectations of more Fed rate cuts amid a cooling job market. More

Strong consumer spending and business investment support growth, but a weak labor market, inflation, and a possible government shutdown threaten growth and challenge the Fed. More