Latest Finance-Economy News
US Leading Economic Index Falls 0.1% in January 2026
The Conference Board LEI for the US declined by 0.1% to 97.5 (2016=100) in January, after a 0.2% drop in December, signaling ongoing economic headwinds. Over six months, it fell 1.3%, half the prior rate, with consumer expectations and building permits weakening despite strengths in 7 of 10 components.
The CEI rose 0.3% to 115.3.
Conference Board Revises 2026 US GDP Growth to 2.0%
Due to unreflected impacts from the war in Iran, The Conference Board cut its 2026 US GDP growth forecast by 0.1 percentage point to 2.0% year-over-year, below 2025 levels. This revision highlights emerging risks to economic activity not yet captured in January LEI data.
Justyna Zabinska-La Monica noted retreating consumer expectations and softer building permits.
US Coincident Economic Index Rises 0.3% in January
The Conference Board CEI increased 0.3% to 115.3 (2016=100) in January 2026, following a 0.2% gain in December. Over the six months to January, it expanded 0.3%, matching the prior period's growth.
This contrasts with LEI declines, indicating current activity remains positive.
IMF Projects 3.1% World GDP Growth for 2026
The IMF's World Economic Outlook forecasts global real GDP growth at 3.1% annually. This reflects total value of goods and services at constant prices.
The outlook covers advanced and emerging economies amid varying regional performances.
Advanced Economies GDP Growth at 1.8% per IMF April Update
IMF data shows advanced economies expected to grow 1.8% in real GDP for the period. This lags behind emerging markets and developing economies at 3.9%.
Figures represent annual percent change in overall economic activity.
Emerging Markets Forecasted at 3.9% GDP Growth by IMF
Emerging market and developing economies are projected to achieve 3.9% real GDP growth. This drives much of the global 3.1% average.
GDP measures constant-price value of final goods and services produced domestically.
Fed Governor Barr to Speak on Rural Economic Development
Federal Reserve Governor Michael S. Barr is scheduled to speak at 12:45 p.m. on rural economic development during the April 2026 calendar event. The event, 'Strengthening America's Economy through Rural Investment,' addresses key finance topics.
Live coverage will be available via the Fed.
War in Iran Impacts US Economic Forecasts
Latest LEI data excludes effects from the war in Iran, prompting downward GDP revisions. The Conference Board anticipates slower 2026 growth at 2.0% y/y as a result.
This underscores geopolitical risks to economic indicators.
US LEI Six-Month Decline Slows to 1.3%
The LEI contracted 1.3% over July 2025 to January 2026, improved from the prior 2.6% drop. Seven of ten components advanced on a six-month basis for three straight months.
Despite this, topline signals headwinds ahead.
Fed April Calendar Highlights Economic Speeches
The Federal Reserve's April 2026 calendar features key speeches, including on rural investment. These events provide insights into monetary policy and economic development.
Governor Barr's address focuses on strengthening rural economies.
Global GDP Outlook Diverges by Economy Type per IMF
IMF April 2026 data reveals stark growth differences: world at 3.1%, advanced at 1.8%, emerging at 3.9%. These projections guide finance and economy strategies worldwide.
GDP tracks annual production changes at constant prices.