Economics

Steady U.S. GDP Could Mask Weakening Consumption

  • Spending projected to slow to 2% gain following 3.2% increase
  • Trade and housing poised to support fourth-quarter growth
Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg
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On the surface, U.S. economic growth last quarter is projected to look decent and little changed from the prior period. But the main figure could mask a misfire in the economy’s chief engine: the consumer.