First-Quarter 2016 Real Merchandise Trade Shortfall
Was Deepest Since Third-Quarter 2007

Narrowing of March 2016 Monthly Trade Deficit
Reflected Weakening Demand for Consumer Goods

First-Quarter Construction Spending Revised Sharply Lower

Volatile Real Spending Remained in Non-Recovery,
Ongoing Low-Level Stagnation

Annual Retail Sales Revisions Were Relatively Small, but with
Unusual Twists; Weaker Sales Seen with Better-Quality Data

Downside Revisions Loom for GDP Detail

 

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