> Trends and Indicators

Consumer Confidence Index
Consumer Confidence Index definition, trends, outlook and how it affects the U.S. economy.

Consumer Price Index
A description of what exactly is measured in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and how it helps measure inflation in the US economy.

Crude Oil Prices Definition and Forecast
How crude oil prices are measured, their impact on the economy, and past trends. Where will oil and gas prices go in the next year?

Durable Goods Orders
What the durable goods orders economic indicator actually measures, why it is important, and how to use it to gauge the economy’s health.

Employment
How employment is defined and measured.

Current U.S. Employment Statistics
A listing of the most current U.S. Employment Statistics

Fed Funds Rate
The Fed Funds Rate, how it works, and why it is important.

GDP
A definition of GDP, why it is important, how it affects the economy and how it affects you.

GDP Current Statistics
A summary of current U.S. GDP statistics, including GDP definitions, GDP descriptions, and links to each GDP statistical report from Q4 2006 through 2007.

Interest Rates
Basic primer on interest rates, including Fed Funds rate, Treasury Notes, and mortgage rates. Explains how rates affect the economy and your life. Discusses future rate trends, and the impact of an inverted yield curve.

Treasury Note & Bond Yields Definitions and Forecast
A definition of Treasury note and bond yields, how they impact the U.S. economy, and a forecast of future trends.

Unemployment Rate
Explains what the Unemployment Rate measures, why it is important, and how it affects the U.S. economy. Describes past and potential future trends, and how to use it to improve your financial security.