Economy

The survey also showed that the confidence of upper-middle class consumers has declined the most over the past six months.

GDP grew in the first and second quarters this year, and economists expect it to continue in the third, but the tax refunds and stock market gains behind that growth are running out.

National leaders point to recruitment issues and economic constraints. More flexible training schedules and financial incentives seem to help.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate hit a more than two-year high last week, sending mortgage applications down for the third consecutive week.

Bank consolidation has been happening for decades, and its pace has sped up in recent years. Borrowers and depositors are experiencing a number of side-effects.

The price of copper usually tells us a lot about the future of global economic growth. But recent developments could make it less accurate as an economic indicator.

Banks hold lots of government bonds, and when their value goes down, it can make lending out money less attractive.

High prices and a moribund housing market have homeowners putting off improvement projects. Home Depot, Lowe’s, and their competitors are feeling the pinch.

The rise reflects increased jet fuel costs and the loss of discount airline Spirit Airlines, but demand for first class and economy-plus has remained strong.

And it’s already too expensive for many Americans.