D.C. Stribling

Low unemployment isn't just reflected in a national number. The vast majority of U.S. metros have low unemployment, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Despite macroeconomic challenges, nonresidential contractors are optimistic about prospects for the rest of the year, the Associated Builders and Contractors' Construction Confidence Index shows.

Development is at an above-average rate and more focused on urban core locations than in previous decades, a recent Newmark Knight Frank report shows.

The American Institute of Architects' Architecture Billings Index rose to 52.8, an uptick compared to April, which bodes well for construction spending in the upcoming year.

The number of U.S. construction projects under contract has expanded since this time last year in most sectors, according to Associated Builders and Contractors.

Most retail categories gained ground for the month. However, there were a few losers such as furniture stores, down 2.4 percent. Economy Editor Dees Stribling gives a breakdown of the retail sales market, for the week ending June 15, 2018. 

The U.S. economic expansion, now the second-longest ever, is looking a little long in the tooth, but REIT fundamentals are still strong.

American buyers feel good about their own current financial situation, but remain a little leery about the future of the economy.

U.S. sales saw a slight increase in May, with most categories gaining ground. However, furniture stores, sporting goods, hobby, music and bookstores suffered significant sales decreases.

The Federal Reserve increased its benchmark short-term interest rates, while also signaling that additional hikes are expected for this year.