Here I comment on some recent developments affecting the prices of WTI, Brent, and gasoline.
Sequester in the Time of ZLB
In several weeks, absent action by policymakers, the Federal government will begin implementing $85 billion worth of across-the-board cuts during FY2013 (i.e., in the months before October). [0]
Dude, where’s my cheap gas?
Those who have been told that oil production is booming may be wondering why the prices of oil and gasoline are climbing again.
Some Thoughts on the Recovery, Conditional Forecasting, and Proper Citations
More analysis from the Heritage Foundation
A Comparison of Selected Economic Indicators for Minnesota vs. Wisconsin
And assessing Walker’s “open for business” program thus far
Evolving Views on Fiscal Multipliers
Context relevant estimates suggest larger, not smaller, fiscal multipliers.
Is this a good time to buy stocks?
With the stock market setting new 5-year highs, I was interested to take another look at some of the long-term fundamentals underlying equity values.
The January 2013 Employment Release
Private nonfarm payroll employment in continues to rise, by 166,000; December 2012 employment is revised up by 0.6% (log terms), when incorporating the benchmark revision (0.5% for total nonfarm payroll employment).
The 2012Q4 GDP Release: Upside and Downside Risks
Defense spending subtracted considerably; more to come if the sequester occurs. Uncertainty weighs—perhaps. Trade volumes decline. But final sales continue upward. And confusion about demand side analysis persists.
GDP falling again
The BEA released today its estimate of 2012 fourth-quarter real GDP, which declined slightly from the third quarter. How scary is that?