December 1998: 1998 Economic Year in Review

To the surprise of many analysts, published figures revealed the economy ended fiscal 1998 with more fizz than a flute of champagne. Real GNP grew 3.1%, a bigger rise than previous forecasts of 2.5% to 2.7%. The question is how soon in 1999 will the economy’s effervescence fade. A review of the year’s top economic news provides some answers. Construction rolled at high speed. Consumers, burdened by debt, the aftermath of Hurricane Georges, and more than 5% inflation, were not on a spending spree. Manufacturers reported strong exports, but overall job markets were weak. Banks continued merging in the hope of maintaining and improving earnings. All in all, the economy in 1998 was one of mixed results in the face of many potential pitfalls, at home and abroad.