US Economy Slows Down as Inflation and Oil Prices Climb

The US economy decided to take a leisurely stroll in Q2 2026, growing at a sluggish 1.5%, down from 2.1%. External shocks from the Middle East sent oil prices soaring, pushing inflation to 3.5%. Consumer spending tried its best with a 3.2% boost, but it wasn’t enough to lift the clouds. Now, the Fed is in a pickle, balancing inflation and a stubborn job market as they ponder interest rates.