VDA Economic Signals: past editions

Gas stations accounted for most of September's retail gain

Retail and food services sales rose 0.8% in September, but gasoline stations supplied about $4.1 billion of the $5.7 billion increase. Excluding gas stations, sales rose 0.2%. Gasoline prices rose 9.1%, more than gas station sales, so the gain reflects higher prices rather than more fuel sold.

Also in this edition: Electricity barely moved while gasoline surged; home sales rose on contracts signed at summer rates; the yield curve flattened from the long end.

Full edition available to subscribers now; added to the archive October 22.

Unemployment rose in September, but not for anyone 25 or older

The national unemployment rate ticked up to 4.2%, yet unemployment fell or held steady for every education group aged 25 and older. The increase came from 16 to 24 year olds, whose rate climbed to 9.9%, in a labor market that has stopped firing but also stopped hiring.

Also in this edition: A global oil shock American drivers are not feeling; mortgage rates climbing while short-term rates fall.