The American economy grew 3.2 percent in the fourth quarter, despite a government shutdown and despite a disappointing holiday shopping season. Businesses are buying equipment, but what are consumers spending our money on? Hint: It’s not household goods, and it's not cars. It's not Exxon, either: The company just announced its fourth quarter earnings dropped 16 percent, on lower production and weaker refining margins. Finally, a bona fide high: Facebook stock is up substantially today, thanks to some positive sales news and profit projections. The company looks a lot different to investors than it did a year ago.
The American economy grew 3.2 percent in the fourth quarter, despite a government shutdown and despite a disappointing holiday shopping season. Businesses are buying equipment, but what are consumers spending our money on? Hint: It’s not household goods, and it’s not cars. It’s not Exxon, either: The company just announced its fourth quarter earnings dropped 16 percent, on lower production and weaker refining margins. Finally, a bona fide high: Facebook stock is up substantially today, thanks to some positive sales news and profit projections. The company looks a lot different to investors than it did a year ago.