From Yahoo Finance: 2025-04-26 16:00:00

The US economy’s growth slowed to 0.4% in the first quarter of 2025 due to consumer fatigue and a surge in the trade deficit from tariff-related import rushes. Job market remains stable, with a slight dip in hiring. GDP data reflects initial impact of Trump’s tariffs and trade policies.

Economists forecast less than 1% GDP growth in the first three quarters of 2025, with private investment retracting and consumer spending curbed by job security concerns. Personal consumption and income data expected to show increased spending but cooler income growth, along with a slowdown in inflation gauge.

Canada faces a crucial election as citizens navigate a trade war with the US. Mark Carney’s Liberals lead Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives in polls, promising swift trade negotiations and economic strengthening. GDP data reveals early strength from exporters pre-tariffs, but ongoing trade war dampens confidence and growth expectations.

China’s economy, distorted by US tariffs, sees industrial profits rise in March despite trade tensions. Tariffs may reduce China’s direct US exports by 80%, pressuring policymakers to implement stimulus. Australia’s inflation may push RBA to cut rates, South Korea’s CPI supports a rate cut, and Taiwan releases Q1 GDP data.

Euro-area’s focus is on GDP and inflation numbers, with ECB nearing inflation target. French growth slows, while Germany, Italy, and the wider euro area see modest expansions. ECB policymakers address inflation optimism, with Eurozone economic growth indicators due from Ireland, Sweden, and Poland.

Brazil, Chile, and Colombia navigate economic indicators amidst global uncertainty. Brazil faces rising inflation, Chile’s central bank likely holds rates steady, and Colombia balances growth and inflation. Argentina and Peru report wages and inflation data, while Mexico’s Q1 output report may show recession avoidance.



Read more at Yahoo Finance: US economy was already sputtering before trade pain kicked in