U.S. Bureau delays GDP report after government shutdown

GDP data as scheduled due to a government shutdown, leaving policy makers without timely insights.

Summary

• The initial third-quarter U.S. GDP estimate is delayed, with the BEA giving no clear timeline for release following a government shutdown.
• The BEA’s second GDP estimate and September personal income/spending report are postponed, with some data now expected by December 5.
• The delays leave policymakers, investors, and markets without crucial economic growth information, potentially impacting decision-making.

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced Monday it will not publish the delayed initial estimate of third-quarter gross domestic product, originally scheduled for Oct. 30, due to a prior government shutdown.

The agency provided no specific timeline for the initial estimate’s release, according to the Wall Street Journal, stating it plans to resume its reporting schedule with an updated estimate at a later, yet-to-be-scheduled date.

U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis releasing GDP estimate later then expected

The BEA typically issues three sequential GDP estimates per quarter, providing a comprehensive view of economic activity. Officials indicated the second estimate, previously set for Wednesday, is also likely to be postponed.

In a related development, the BEA reassigned the publication date for its September personal income and spending report, which includes the personal-consumption expenditures price index, the Federal Reserve‘s preferred measure of inflation. That report, originally scheduled for Oct. 31, is now expected on Dec. 5, according to the agency.

The initial GDP data serves as a key indicator of U.S. economic growth trends, particularly following disruptions from the shutdown. The delay leaves a gap in timely data that informs policymakers, investors and market participants.

The agency has not provided additional guidance on whether further adjustments to its release schedule may be necessary.