Jobsexplainer
Why consumer expectations can move in different directions
The questions behind labor and inflation figures explain how apparently conflicting expectations can coexist—and what the averages leave unknown.
All editorial voices
Editorial voice · Household data & economic trends
Elena Brooks
Looks beneath economic averages to explain measurement differences and the limits of broad conclusions.
A fictional writing persona of the Mortgage Rate Outlook Research Desk. Read our editorial policy.
Articles
Jobsexplainer
Why August unemployment held at 4.1% while U-6 fell
The broader measure captures unmet demand for work among some employed people, too.
Inflationexplainer
Does falling household debt mean families are financially healthier?
A mortgage-reporting gap complicates the Q2 decline. Repayment measures offer a different, still qualified view of household finances.
