Each day the Research staff takes a look at recently released economic indicators, addressing what these indicators mean for REALTORS® and their clients. Today’s update highlights imports and exports.

  • dfu051011
    The Bureau of Labor Statistics released import and export prices today.  Prices for imports rose for the 10th consecutive month with a strong 2.2% gain after last month’s 2.6% gain.  While down from a month ago, price growth remains robust and resulted in a strong 11.1% gain relative to April of 2010.
  • The growth of import prices was led by a 6.7% gain in fuel prices.  Non-fuel imports remain elevated at 0.6% likely reflecting some pass-through of high gas prices.
  • Rising gas prices hurt consumers and increase costs for REALTORS®.  The continuation of this trend will weigh on consumer and business confidence. Weak confidence might cause businesses to put off plans to hire a pattern that could hamper household formation and future home sales.
Notice: The information on this page may not be current. The archive is a collection of content previously published on one or more NAR web properties. Archive pages are not updated and may no longer be accurate. Users must independently verify the accuracy and currency of the information found here. The National Association of REALTORS® disclaims all liability for any loss or injury resulting from the use of the information or data found on this page.