In the April jobs report, inflation outstripped wage growth for the first time in three years. When the May jobs report comes out on Friday, we'll find out if that's a trend.
While both sales and inventories are up, analysts warn that consumers are being picky about what they purchase. And wholesalers need to decide how much to stock up for the uncertain future.
Inflation is the biggest challenge for 16% of respondents to a survey from the National Federation of Independent Business, the highest share in over a year.
A new Harvard study shows that remodeling permit applications are flat, while sales of supplies like faucets and windows are down. One major issue is finding workers during an immigration crackdown.
