Economy

Durable Goods Gain of 22.6% Only Huge in the Headline

Durable goods orders for July were reported Tuesday morning. Regardless of the headlines, this is one of the most volatile readings from month to month. The July reading for durable goods orders is 22.6%, a huge increase from the June reading of 0.7% (which was revised up to 2.7%). If the headline number sounds shocking, there is a reason — this was the highest reading in about 20 years. Still, do not let the headline number fool you.

To prove just how volatile this economic report is, Dow Jones had a target of 7.5% while Bloomberg’s estimate was 5.1%. The range given by Bloomberg was -1.0% to 24.5%.

This gain is heavily influenced by aircraft and transportation. After looking beyond the first headline, the ex-transportation durable goods figure was down by 0.8%. June’s reading of a 0.8% gain was revised up to a gain of 3.0%. The total durable goods reading was $300.1 billion in July.

The crux of the durable goods is measured by nondefense capital goods ex-aircraft. This is considered the core reading for the rest of the economy, and it came in a drop with a reading of -0.5% in July.

READ ALSO: Yellen’s Rate Hike Meatball: Other Fed Presidents vs. Fed Funds Futures

Essential Tips for Investing: Sponsored

A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.