Latest Economic News Mostly Positive, But Highlights Need for Additional Stimulus Measures

Economic reports released in the past week were mostly positive, but with millions still unemployed and benefits expiring, the need for additional stimulus measures remains, according to Nareit Senior Economist Calvin Schnure.Speaking Aug. 10 on the REIT Report, Schnure said economic data reported last week “helps dispel some of the fears that the recovery stalled last month” due to the continued spread of the coronavirus.Schnure noted that the ISM survey on manufacturing rose to 54.2, stronger than expected and above the 50 mark that indicates a growing sector. Motor vehicle sales were at a 14.5 million unit pace last month, also above expectations. “Consumers are coming back as the economy reopens,” he said.