US Bureau of Economic Analysis Delays GDP Report Due to Government Shutdown
The United States’ economic growth trends are currently shrouded in uncertainty as the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) delays the release of its first estimate of the third-quarter gross domestic product (GDP). This delay is a direct result of the recent government shutdown, which has impacted the agency’s ability to provide timely insights to policymakers, investors, and market participants.
Due to a government shutdown, GDP data is out as planned, preventing policymakers from receiving timely insights.
Key Takeaways
- The first U.S. GDP estimate for the third quarter is delayed as the BEA does not provide a clear timeline for release following a government shutdown.
- The BEA’s second GDP estimate and personal income/expenditure report for September will be postponed, with some data now expected by December 5.
- Due to the delays, policymakers, investors and markets are missing important information about economic growth, potentially impacting decision-making.
The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis said Monday that it will not release the delayed first estimate of third-quarter gross domestic product, originally scheduled for Oct. 30, due to an earlier government shutdown. According to The Wall Street Journal, the agency did not provide a specific timeline for releasing the initial estimate and said it plans to continue its reporting schedule with an updated estimate at a later date to be determined.
Impact on Economic Decision-Making
The BEA typically releases three consecutive GDP estimates per quarter, providing a comprehensive overview of economic activity. Officials said the second estimate, originally scheduled for Wednesday, will also likely be postponed. In a related development, the BEA reset the release date for its September Personal Income and Expenditures report, which includes the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation. That report, originally scheduled for Oct. 31, is now expected for Dec. 5, according to the agency.
The first GDP data serves as a key indicator of the US economy’s growth trends, especially after disruptions caused by the shutdown. The delay creates a gap in current data that informs policymakers, investors and market participants. The agency has not provided any additional guidance on whether further adjustments to its release schedule may be necessary.
For more information on the delayed GDP report and its implications, visit https://crypto.news/u-s-bureau-delays-gdp-report-after-government-shutdown/
