The incoming monthly activity data suggest that GDP growth has slowed from 2.6% annualised in the fourth quarter to only around 1.5% in the first. At the same time, however, the business surveys have remained relatively upbeat, with a weighted average of the ISM activity surveys consistent with GDP growth accelerating above 4% annualised. It’s clearly possible that growth picks up again in the second quarter. The rebound in consumer confidence suggests that consumption will continue to recover from the plunge in December, while a potential trade deal with China could give a temporary lift to exports. But with the fiscal boost having faded, and the continued slowdown in durables consumption and housing activity suggesting that higher interest rates are taking a heavier toll, a sustained recovery looks unlikely. We expect GDP growth to remain below its 2% potential pace this year, ruling out any further rate hikes from the Fed and ensuring that market expectations of rate cuts will continue to grow.
Become a client to read more
This is premium content that requires an active Capital Economics subscription to view.
Already have an account?
You may already have access to this premium content as part of a paid subscription.
Sign in to read the content in full or get details of how you can access it
Register for free
Sign up for a free account to gain:
- Unlock additional content
- Register for Capital Economics events
- Receive email updates and economist-curated newsletters
- Request a free trial of our services