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U.S. inflation slows but cost pressures remain high
US inflation slowed to 2.7% in November after a shutdown-delayed report, but prices remain high as tariffs and economic uncertainty pressure consumers.
Economists see brighter 2026 outlook for housing, furniture
Piper Sandler economists predict easing tariffs, lower rates and stronger housing could lift the economy and boost furniture demand heading into 2026.
U.S. retail sales flat in October as consumers pull back
U.S. retail sales were unchanged in October as consumers cut back on spending, with auto sales falling and economic uncertainty weighing on demand.
U.S. homebuilder sentiment climbs to 8-month high in December
U.S. homebuilder sentiment edged up to an eight-month high in December, but activity remained constrained by rising construction costs because of tariffs on imports.
Tariffs, inflation squeeze holiday shoppers and retailers
Tariffs, inflation and weak consumer confidence are driving higher holiday prices, forcing retailers and shoppers to cut back on gifts.
Consumers struggle as prices stay high ahead of holiday season
A new AP-NORC poll finds Americans struggling with high prices, dipping into savings and losing confidence in the economy under President Trump.
Approval of Trump’s handling of economy drops to low point
A new AP-NORC poll shows sharp declines in Trump's approval on the economy and immigration as Republicans grow uneasy ahead of the 2026 midterms.
U.S. job openings stall as layoffs rise in October
U.S. job openings held at 7.7 million in October as layoffs climbed and quits fell, signaling a cooling labor market amid tariffs, inflation and Fed uncertainty.
Minnesota contractors less optimistic for 2026
A new AGC Minnesota survey shows contractors are less optimistic for 2026, citing labor shortages, rising costs, and growing reliance on AI and technology.
U.S. Steel to restart steel production at Illinois plant
U.S. Steel will restart its Granite City blast furnace as demand rebounds, hiring 400 workers and resuming steel slab production amid a stronger U.S. steel market.
China’s exports surge despite 29% drop in U.S. shipments
China’s exports rose 5.9% in November, pushing its trade surplus above $1 trillion as it diversifies markets despite weaker U.S. shipments and ongoing trade tensions.
Fed’s key inflation gauge held steady in September
The Fed’s preferred inflation gauge held steady in September, strengthening expectations for an interest rate cut amid mixed economic signals and cautious consumer spending.
Beyond The Skyline Podcast
Beyond the Skyline is a podcast and video interview about economic development, real estate and construction in Minnesota.
