Despite resurgent consumer spending and robust business investment, US Q2 growth came in below expectations. The Bureau of Economic Analysis’ advance estimate on Thursday showed real GDP up 1.5% YoY in Q2. A large quarter-to-quarter decline in net exports masked still-strong domestic demand. Consumer spending, about two-thirds of US activity, rose 3.2% at an annualized quarterly rate. Business investment remained strong, supported by an AI-driven investment boom.

2026-07-30

Despite resurgent consumer spending and robust business investment, US Q2 growth came in below expectations. The Bureau of Economic Analysis’ advance estimate on Thursday showed real GDP up 1.5% YoY in Q2. A large quarter-to-quarter decline in net exports masked still-strong domestic demand. Consumer spending, about two-thirds of US activity, rose 3.2% at an annualized quarterly rate. Business investment remained strong, supported by an AI-driven investment boom.