Commentary

WWU Center for Economic and Business Research️ 4 hours ago

The rental vacancy rate was not statistically different from the rate in the second quarter 2025. The rental vacancy rate in the Northeast was higher than the rate in the second quarter 2025 while the rates in the Midwest, South, and West were not statistically different from the second quarter 2025.

WWU Center for Economic and Business Research️ 4 hours ago

The homeownership rate of 65.0 percent was virtually the same as the rate in the second quarter 2025. The homeownership rates in the Northeast, Midwest, South, and West were not statistically different from the second quarter 2025.

WWU Center for Economic and Business Research️ 7 hours ago

Americans’ confidence in the economy fell this month as gas prices resumed their climb after the U.S. and Iran stepped up their fighting. https://buff.ly/SUnXFXr

WWU Center for Economic and Business Research️ 9 hours ago

Our state has moved up a notch in the U.S. News & World Report “Best States” rankings. Here’s how Washington fared in a number of categories, including (ouch) one last-place ranking. One state, however, has a five-year lock on the overall title of “least best.” https://buff.ly/AuFrhjA

WWU Center for Economic and Business Research️ 11 hours ago

Second-Quarter GDP Growth Estimate Decreased. On July 28, the GDPNow model estimate for real GDP growth in the second quarter of 2026 is 1.5 percent, down from 1.6 percent on July 27.

WWU Center for Economic and Business Research️ 1 day ago

Predictions of an AI-driven hiring wipeout have yet to materialize. Companies across tech, transportation and defense are hiring again, offering a bright spot as investors brace for a big week. https://buff.ly/OsrKLap