Economy, Good News | featured news

The U.S. economy grew more than previously calculated in the third quarter, led by stronger consumer spending and fueled by labor income gains that may stoke demand into 2011.

The nation's economic stress fell in September to a 16-month low, thanks to more hiring in New England, fewer foreclosures in the mid-Atlantic and declining bankruptcy filings in the Southeast, according to The Associated Press' monthly analysis of conditions around the country.

Employers added the most jobs in five months, but the unemployment rate remained stuck at 9.6 percent for the third straight month.

U.S. companies added to payrolls more than expected in October, slightly boosting optimism about the job market ahead of Friday's government employment report.

New claims for unemployment benefits fell last week to a three-month low, hinting at some improvement in the listless labor market.

The month of October is just about a wrap, and it’s shaping up to be a good one for the auto industry.

Retail sales in the U.S. climbed more than forecast in September, easing concern that unemployment stuck near a 26-year high will bring the recovery to a halt.

Stocks rallied Wednesday as investors continue to anticipate more stimulus measures from the Federal Reserve.

The number of people who signed contracts to buy homes rose in August for the second straight month but remained far below last year's pace.

Consumer sentiment improved a bit in late September but remained weak as a mixed bag of economic reports added up to a picture of sluggish growth.