US Economy Is in a Holding Pattern

Ever since Trump took office, experts have been trying to figure out the direction in which the US economy is heading. The initial market responses were very positive, with the stock and financial markets showing signs of strong and sustainable upward trends during the first few days. Now, however, the market – and the economy as a whole – appears to be in a holding pattern.

Uncertainty is the main cause of this situation. The administration is dealing with a number of serious non-economic issues, including the possibility of a war with North Korea. Will this holding pattern continue? Where is the economy headed?

Observing the Trend Lines

If we take a look at market fluctuations and data about economic growth over the last 13 years, the economy is still showing strong signs of growth. It may have its ups and downs, but even a big economy such as the US is affected by many internal and external factors.

The economy may not have the perfect ingredients to grow by large margins, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have opportunities to explore. The manufacturing industry is flexing its muscles with key metrics all going up. The retail industry is just as exciting, especially with demands and purchasing power going up.

In fact, the consumption ratings across many industries are either holding in a strong position or already showing signs of growth. Combined with new trade deals that will materialize into investment in infrastructure and big projects across the country and we may be looking at a great 2017 and 2018.

The Rise of Online Business

The internet is turning the world into one big global market and local businesses across the US are tapping into this gigantic market by setting up their own storefronts and online presence. The majority of US businesses have online stores through which customers from all parts of the world can make purchases.

Even small home businesses are taking advantage of the global market by going online. There are more facilities to support these home businesses today, including better payment gateways and more delivery options.

Despite competing against businesses from Asia and Europe, US businesses are banking steady streams of revenue from international customers. These revenues are contributing to the nation’s GDP and overall economic growth.

Support from Education

Growing markets means growing businesses, which in turn causes the demand for resources to rise as well. Skilled professionals are needed to fill key roles as companies expand to new markets. Thankfully, our top universities such as Ohio University are making their distance learning programs more accessible in response to market demands.

Students can pursue any degree they like, from an online master of financial economics degree to an MBA, while working a full-time job or running a business. Online degrees such as the online MFE degree can also be completed in as little as 15 to 18 months by allocating more time to the course, which means more graduates will be ready for the market sooner.

The US economy may be in a holding pattern right now, but all signs are signaling a steady and sustainable growth in the near future. It’s just a matter of time before we start seeing more positive signs from the market.