Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Consumer Spending Rises Amid Economic Concerns and Inflation

9/28/2025

50 10 Full Breakdown

Left

Economy Faces Challenges

Consumer spending rose 0.6% in August, despite sentiment at 55.1.
Inflation reached 2.9% in August, partly due to President Trump's new tariffs.
Job growth stagnated; the Black unemployment rate rose, signaling potential layoffs.
Despite strong GDP growth, concerns about a looming government shutdown and rising debt persist.
Economists describe a 'K-shaped' economy, with wealthier Americans thriving and others struggling.

Right

U.S. Economy Grows

U.S. GDP rose 3.8% in Q2 2025, driven by consumer spending and business investment.
Trade deficit contracted; imports slowed after a surge in early 2025.
Tepid job growth, blamed on tariffs and immigration, prompted the Fed to resume rate cuts.
Economists foresee slower second half of 2025, around 1.5% for the year, with spending revised to 2.5%.

1 of 2

Economy Faces Challenges

Consumer spending rose 0.6% in August, despite sentiment at 55.1.
Inflation reached 2.9% in August, partly due to President Trump's new tariffs.
Job growth stagnated; the Black unemployment rate rose, signaling potential layoffs.
Despite strong GDP growth, concerns about a looming government shutdown and rising debt persist.
Economists describe a 'K-shaped' economy, with wealthier Americans thriving and others struggling.

1 / 2