Economists state's signs of hope

WASHINGTON — Despite weak performances in three areas — trade, home sales and job openings — the U.S. economy appears closer to stabilizing, though at low levels, economists said.

The Commerce Department said the trade deficit widened to $27.6 billion in March, from February’s revised $26.1 billion gap, which had been the smallest since November 1999. Through the first three months of this year, the trade deficit ran at an annual rate of $359.7 billion, far below last year’s $681.1 billion. Economists expect the deficit will remain low as the U.S. recession crimps demand for foreign goods.



wire reports