Topic: Paul Ashworth

Unemployment rate hits three-year low. Hooray? No, boo!

The unemployment rate for April was 8.1 percent, the lowest rate since President Obama took office. But the unemployment rate is falling for all the wrong reasons. 

US adds 227,000 jobs. But are they well-paid?

The US economy is creating more jobs at slightly higher pay. But the averages can be deceiving.

Stock market caps its best week in two years

The Dow Jones industrial average dropped 0.61 of a point to close at 12,019.42 but ended the week up 7 percent, the largest weekly gain since July 2009.

Deflation risks rising: Nightmare scenario

Deflation: If forecasts are correct, several factors could present a dangerous combination the Fed might not allow to brew for very long.

Companies hiring: Jobs surge in private sector

April's surprisingly strong jobs report shows companies hiring at the fastest pace in five years. Can the momentum continue?

Government shutdown: Will those who like government least miss it most?

The mail will still go through, as will Social Security payments, veterans benefits, and military pay. Federal employees will still direct plane traffic, inspect food, and prosecute crime. By its own estimates, the federal government represents about 8 percent of the United States economy, so the economic impact of a long government shutdown would eventually affect just about everybody. Even in the short term, some groups will notice. Ironically, some of those who will be affected most are those who like government least. Here's a look at four such groups:

Consumer prices rise 0.3 percent in August

Consumer prices were boosted by a big jump in gasoline prices. Core inflation was flat.

Layoffs are back in the discussion about US economy

Layoffs are once again on the rise across the country, not good news for an economy that's moving in fits and starts.

Productivity weakens. Time to cheer?

Productivity fell 0.9 percent last quarter, suggesting that US companies will slowly start to hire more workers.

US adds 55,000 jobs. Wait, it's gotta be more.

The ADP survey says the economy added 55,000 jobs in May. But Friday's official numbers are almost certain to show a healthier jump.

Finally, US economy adds 162,000 jobs

Not counting hiring of temporary workers for companies and the census, private-sector hiring rose a solid 80,000 in March.

Existing home sales: Are US home prices set to fall again?

After a brief run-up, prices of new and existing homes are falling again.

Unemployment rate falls, but recession's toll is worst since the '30s

Revised figures show that the unemployment rate fell, but the recession destroyed far more jobs than previously thought.

GDP report shows US growth surged, but will it last in 2010?

US GDP report marks a strong fourth quarter but economy watchers shouldn't rejoice just yet.

Consumer prices rose, but your grocery bill fell in 2009

The food portion of the consumer price index declined for the first time since 1961. Dairy prices plunged the most since the Depression.

Consumer prices jump 0.4 percent in November

November's rise in consumer prices marks the first year-over-year increase in the consumer price index since February.

Housing starts: Don't panic over October's plunge

House starts plunge, but here are three reasons why you shouldn't panic.

Stocks soar. Is Wall Street's party premature?

Stocks soar on Wall Street, but does economy justify the party?

After dismal jobs report, unemployment rate could hit postwar high

Jobs report reveals a 10.2 percent unemployment rate. Four reasons not to panic.

US productivity soars, worker pay doesn't

US productivity rose 9.5 percent, but workers' hourly pay rose by the smallest amount on record.

Leading indicators: US recession nearly over

US housing starts fall, ending two-month rally

US productivity gain is biggest in six years

US job losses slow. Time to curb your pessimism?

US factory orders up, excluding autos, planes