Files containing subject consumer price index

Past recessions suggest that once the Puget Sound economy touches bottom it vigorously bounces back. One year after the low point of the 1981-82 recession, employment was expanding at a 6 percent annual rate. But there are reasons for thinking that this time will be different. [READ MORE]

Like it or not, the Puget Sound region has little control over its economic destiny, at least in the short run. World air travel dictates how many commercial jets Boeing will sell. Volatile housing markets in California and Japan generate production swings at Weyerhaeuser lumber mills. The incomes of many Seattle fishermen are made or lost in Alaskan waters. [READ MORE]

Forecasting turning points is difficult. Thus, in February, when we called for the Puget Sound economy to break out of its five-year sluggish state, we crossed a couple of fingers. [READ MORE]

After failing to negotiate a new contract with The Boeing Company, 22,500 aerospace machinists walked off the job in October. Each week, the striking workers forfeit $18 million in wages. [READ MORE]