Slower housing starts have been expected this year as borrowing conditions and labour shortages affect the pace of building
Experts say economy still playing catch-up after pandemic lows
However, other measures of employment paint a weaker picture of the labour market
The latest figures reflected the job market’s sustained ability to withstand the 11 rate hikes imposed by the Fed
While volatile food and energy components ease, other prices resist: OECD
Report predicts the first rate cut to come in April, slightly earlier than financial markets expect
Consumer insolvencies also increased in January, but not nearly as sharply
Central bankers face additional source of price pressure
Estimate is the latest signal of strength for an economy that's blasted through recession predictions
Early estimates for January point to a drop