Research >> Economics
DJ-BTMU U.S. Business Barometer declined by another -0.1%
For the week ending July 25, 2009, the DJ-BTMU U.S. Business Barometer edged down -0.1 percent, losing ground for a third consecutive week. In the latest week inflation-adjusted chain store sales rocketed +1.0 percent with a notable pick-up in foot traffic at department stores. Consumers must have exchanged a trip to the mall for one to the movies, however, as box office receipts were down for a second consecutive week. Auto and truck production continued to show the seasonal jockeying spurred by the timing of factory shutdowns for retooling, but production may kick in to high gear soon as automakers have cleared a good deal of inventory following a surprising start to the “cash-for-clunkers” government incentive program.
Posted: August 6, 2009 Thursday 10:00 AM