Another ominous sign of a sputtering economy?
Yes.. Absolutely. In order to get a clear picture of economic performance, we must ignore things like overall earnings, GDP, employment figures, etc. etc, and focus on anecdotal data like regional company layoffs.
Yes, Tim, "overall earnings, GDP, employment figures" are great for telling you how the economy is doing right now, but for predicting the future I like to watch the Indices.
There is so little overhanging supply from October's highs, yet the Indices are struggling to reach or surpass. As Bill Griffin would say, 'We shall see in the fullness of time."
Just reporting what the market thinks. I have no idea where the market or economy is going.
https://www.marketforum.com/forum/topic/27721/
https://agrillofinancialgroup.com/signs-of-spring-weekly-economic-commentary-april-8-2019/
consumer activity.
signs of strength recently include:
The first quarter’s mixed signals were understandably difficult to digest. Pockets of the economy unexpectedly weakened, uncertainty grew amid global setbacks, and trade and political headlines were an added distraction. As the calendar turns, we’re seeing some signs of growth break through as global headwinds subside. We still see compelling evidence of sound fundamentals, and we expect consumer and business activity to rebound as trade and headwinds subside. 