economy

Consumer Prices Tumble in April, Driven Down by Gas Prices

A sharp drop in gasoline costs led U.S. consumer prices to tumble in April by the most in more than four years.

U.S. Housing Starts Plummet in April, But Permits Surge

Ground-breaking for new U.S. homes plummeted more than expected in April from an almost five-year high.

Congress Divided Over Federal Food-Stamp Program

House and Senate committees have laid the groundwork this week for reducing the size of the federal food stamp program, approving farm bills that would shrink food aid.

U.S. Homebuilders' Confidence Climbs in May

Confidence among U.S. homebuilders rebounded in May, reflecting improved sales trends during the spring home-selling season.

U.S. Factory Output Sees Broad Decline in April

U.S. factories cut back sharply on production in April, as auto companies cranked out fewer cars and most other industries reduced output.

Producer Prices Post Biggest Drop in Three Years

U.S. producer prices recorded their largest drop in three years in April as gasoline and food costs tumbled.

Macy's Quarterly Profit Rises Along with Same-Store Sales

Macy's reported higher first-quarter profit and sales despite cool weather in much of the country that delayed spring shopping for many customers.

Deere Posts Higher Earnings, but Warns of Challenges

Deere reported higher quarterly earnings Wednesday and forecast a record profit for the full year, but warned that it faces challenges.

Cheaper Oil Drives Import Prices Down in April

U.S. import prices fell in April due to a drop in oil costs, a positive sign for household finances that also pointed to benign inflation pressures.

Business Inventories Flat in March; Sales Down Sharply

U.S. business inventories were unchanged in March for a second straight month, while business sales fell the most since June.

April Retail Sales Unexpectedly Rise

U.S. retail sales unexpectedly rose in April as households bought automobiles, building materials and a range of other goods, pointing to underlying strength in the economy.

Fed to Wind Down Stimulus Program, but When?

The Fed's bond-buying program has been one of the main drivers of the market rally over the past nine months. Now the central bank has reportedly decided on its next move.

Bernanke: Fed Increasing Oversight Beyond Banks

The Fed has broadened its oversight beyond banks and now monitors a wide-range of financial institutions that could hasten another crisis, Chairman Ben Bernanke said Friday.

Obama Presses Middle-Class Jobs Agenda in Texas

President Obama resurrected his jobs proposals Thursday, advancing modest initiatives as he pushed for action on more ambitious efforts that face resistance from Republicans.

Chain Retailers Report Solid Sales Gains in April

Americans spent more during the early spring months in the latest sign that they're encouraged by the economic recovery.