Durable Goods Orders Report in February 2025

Durable goods orders in February exceeded expectations, with a 0.9% increase to $289.3 billion. Key categories like auto orders and computer orders saw significant growth, while core capital goods orders experienced a slight decline. Overall, business investment remains strong despite economic uncertainties.

USPS Mail Carriers Taking on New Duties for Census

USPS customers are facing potential chaos as mail carriers may take on new duties to assist with the 2030 census, amid financial struggles and a controversial plan pushed by the Trump administration to merge USPS with the Commerce Department. The proposal has raised concerns about disruption, inefficiency, and privacy risks.

US trade deficit in January

The US trade deficit reached a record high in January as companies rushed to import goods before tariffs were imposed by President Donald Trump.

Commerce Department overseeing the Postal Service for cost-saving measures

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick proposes having the Commerce Department oversee the Postal Service to save money by utilizing postal workers for tasks like the Census and delivering Social Security forms directly to people's homes. This move could improve customer service and efficiency.

U.S. Factory Orders

Factory orders in U.S. rose for the third consecutive month in April, with a 0.7 percent increase. Durable goods orders rose by 0.6 percent, while nondurable goods orders rose by 0.8 percent. Orders for consumer goods increased by 1.2 percent.