Wall Street Navigates Data Void as Government Shutdown Disrupts Economic Indicators
Federal economic data blackouts have forced Wall Street to rely on patchwork indicators amid the longest government shutdown in history. The missing retail sales report leaves markets blind to consumer health just as the Fed enters its quiet period ahead of January's policy decision.
Chicago Fed's alternative metrics suggest modest September growth, with Core retail sales excluding autos rising 0.5%. Powell maintains the central bank's outlook remains consistent with September projections, though acknowledges potential upside surprises in GDP trajectory.