US Economic Week in Review: The Economy Is Humming Along Nicely

            The good news for the U.S. is that its economy continues to expand at a strong rate.  This week, two coincident indicators – retail sales and industrial production – were released.  Both grew strongly.  After hurricane caused spikes, initial unemployment claims have returned to previously low levels.  While the financial markets were mixed, they remain at high levels, indicating investors have confidence in the next 3-6 months of economic growth.