Economic updates last week revealed that the labor market showed some weakness, first quarter economic growth contracted, the Fed's preferred inflation measure slowed, and home prices continued their upward trajectory.

Home sales showed mixed results for new and existing properties in March, while the Federal Reserve's latest Beige Book highlights how trade policy uncertainty is affecting businesses nationwide.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell warned of a possible "challenging scenario" on the horizon. Meanwhile, retail sales in March saw a boost from consumers making purchases before tariffs took effect. At the same time, home builders remain cautious amid ongoing economic uncertainty.

While inflation came in lower than anticipated in March, this positive development was overshadowed by ongoing news about trade tariffs.

March saw stronger-than-expected job growth, but the labor sector continues to deliver mixed messages. However, this news was overshadowed by the announcement of reciprocal tariffs.

The Federal Reserve's key inflation gauge moved in the wrong direction in February, a concerning development. However, signed contracts for new and existing homes rebounded after a sluggish start to the year, and home prices nationwide continued to show solid growth.

The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as anticipated, while unveiling its latest economic projections. Meanwhile, existing home sales and housing starts exceeded expectations, even as home builder confidence declined.

Inflation pressures moderated in February, and January job openings exceeded expectations. However, a closer examination of the data uncovers important insights.

Turbulence is building in the labor market, while recent reports show that homeownership remains a solid investment opportunity.

The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge aligned with projections in January. Meanwhile, home sales stagnated to begin the year, even as prices maintained an upward trajectory across much of the country.

Sales of existing homes declined in January but are projected to increase throughout the year. Meanwhile, concerns over tariffs have led home builders to adopt a more cautious stance.

Inflation began the year hotter than anticipated, while Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that the Fed is not “in a hurry” to implement further rate cuts.