The Marked Chart Wire · Economy and the Fed
Economy
US new home sales beat forecasts in October
New home sales rose to 676,000 units, exceeding the 650,500 forecast, while the Richmond Fed index held at minus 2.
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More Economy and the Fed news
Wealth Inequality
Fed data reveals top 10 percent hold most US stocks
Federal Reserve figures show the wealthiest decile controls 88.1 percent of household-held shares and fund interests. Overall family participation in equities dropped to 56 percent in 2025, down from 58 percent in 2022.
Consumer Confidence
US consumer confidence rises to 91.7 in October
The Conference Board reported that US consumer confidence increased to 91.7 in October, beating the forecast of 81 and the previous month's reading of 81.9.
Global Growth
Economists raise global growth forecasts to 3.0 percent for 2026
A poll of over 500 economists projects global GDP expansion of 3.0 percent in 2026 and 3.2 percent in 2027. AI investment supports activity, though oil prices above $100 per barrel raise inflation risks.
Global Economy
Economists lift global growth and inflation outlooks
A survey projects worldwide expansion at 3.0 percent in 2026 and 3.2 percent in 2027, exceeding prior estimates. Price increase predictions for 2027 were also raised for 31 out of 50 key nations.
Housing
US home prices rise 2.1 percent in August
National home prices increased 2.1 percent annually in August, accelerating from July. However, values continued to fall in real terms for the 15th straight month as inflation outpaced price growth.
Economy
US durable goods orders rise 1.8 percent in September
Durable goods orders increased 1.8 percent, slightly below the 1.9 percent forecast. Core orders, which exclude transportation, rose 0.5 percent.
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