The U.S. economy maintained a steady pace in the third quarter of 2024, with the second estimate of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) confirming the initial reading of 2.8% quarter-on-quarter growth. This figure aligns with market expectations and indicates continued resilience despite rising interest rates and persistent inflation. The growth was primarily fueled by robust consumer spending and a significant increase in business investment. However, the housing sector continued to contract, reflecting the impact of higher mortgage rates.
Key Insights:
- Steady Growth: The confirmation of 2.8% GDP growth for Q3 2024 indicates that the U.S. economy is navigating challenges such as inflation and rising interest rates with resilience.
- Consumer and Business Strength: Consumer spending remains a key driver of growth, supported by a strong labor market. Additionally, businesses continue to invest, suggesting confidence in the economic outlook.
- Housing Sector Weakness: The housing market remains a weak spot due to the impact of higher interest rates on mortgage affordability.
Investment Implications:
- Positive for U.S. Equities: The sustained economic growth could provide further support for U.S. equity markets, particularly in sectors tied to consumer spending and business investment.
- Impact on Indian Markets: A strong U.S. economy can have a positive spillover effect on Indian markets through trade and investment linkages. However, it could also lead to further outflows of foreign capital from India as investors seek higher returns in the U.S.
- Interest Rate Sensitivity: Continued growth may encourage the Federal Reserve to maintain its hawkish stance on interest rates, potentially impacting borrowing costs and investment decisions in India.
Sources:
- Investing.com: https://in.investing.com/economic-calendar/united-states-gross-domestic-product-(gdp)-qoq-375
- Trading Economics: https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/gdp-growth
- U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA):https://www.bea.gov/data/gdp/gross-domestic-product