Economic slowdown fears rise in the US

Concerns about a potential economic slowdown have intensified recently, with President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledging the possibility of a recession. They highlighted a "transition" period in the economy, which has unsettled Wall Street. The Atlanta Federal Reserve's model predicts a significant drop in GDP growth for the first quarter of 2025, while JPMorgan Chase expects modest growth. Goldman Sachs has raised its recession probability from 15% to 20%, reflecting increased economic uncertainty. Consumer confidence has declined, with sentiment at its lowest since 2022. Retail sales growth was weaker than expected, and while the unemployment rate remains stable, job creation has slowed. Gold prices have risen, indicating investor caution amid fears of a global slowdown.