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Apr 27, 2023

How much longer can consumers save the day?

GDP continued softening but was buoyed by consumer spending. We dig in. Then later, tallying the costs of College Decision Day announcements.

GDP growth in the U.S. was sluggish last quarter
by Sabri Ben-Achour
Spencer Platt/Getty Images
Inflation was up and inventories down, but consumer spending kept GDP growing — albeit at a slower pace.
In the midst of inflation, companies continue to hike prices — and reap major profits
by Samantha Fields
Joe Raedle/Getty Image
So far, price increases have not driven customers away. But there’s evidence that is starting to change.
Seasonal foreign workers fill critical landscaping jobs, enabled by easier access to visas
by Elizabeth Trovall
Elizabeth Trovall/Marketplace
The number of available H-2B visas available nearly doubled in 2023, providing more people to carry out beautification projects.
How private equity creates a “circle of pain” in the US economy
by Kai Ryssdal and Sarah Leeson
Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images
Private equity “is a major driver of the enormous gulf between rich and poor in this country,” says author Gretchen Morgenson.