Bill Wood, Plastics News economics editor, reviews the U.S. economy as the Federal Reserve slows its rate cuts, lowering by 25 basis points in December but signaling only two cuts in 2025 instead of four.
Despite strong GDP growth, a robust labor market, and steady consumer spending, bond markets raised long-term rates, increasing borrowing costs. The manufacturing sector, particularly plastics, faces challenges, with production at 2017 levels and capacity utilization at historic lows outside the pandemic.
Wood highlights a mixed outlook, with economic strength tempered by manufacturing struggles and anticipates volatility as new leadership takes office in 2025.
Join Wood for an in-depth discussion during the Numbers That Matter Live webcast on Jan. 28.