By Evelina M. Tainer, Chief Economist, Econoday
October 3, 2003

In one fashion this economic recovery is typical - the data are showing mixed results. For the first time in eight months, nonfarm payrolls rose in September, although the jobless rate remained unchanged. Factory orders fell again, but the ISM surveys (manufacturing and non-manufacturing) show continued growth in the economy. Confidence fell, but motor vehicle sales were robust. Although the economy has been growing for several quarters, the mixed data suggest that we are still in the early phases of recovery. Once we see more consistent trends, in the same upward direction, the recovery will be assured and we will be headed towards economic expansion.