Economic Calendar: Here Are the Government Data Releases Still Pending Following the Shutdown

Economic Data Delays: What You Need to Know

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Analysts and observers are still anticipating updates that will reveal current trends in consumer and business activity.

Main Points

• Releases of key economic statistics were put on hold due to the federal government shutdown, and agencies are now working to release the backlog.
• Some reports have been rescheduled, while others have been merged or dropped entirely.

Although the government shutdown came to an end in November, government statistical offices are still working to publish the economic data that was delayed.

After a 43-day closure, federal agencies responsible for monitoring inflation, employment, and economic growth remain behind on several important releases, but efforts are underway to get back on track, with some progress already being made in catching up.

Why the Delays Matter

Postponed economic data can make it more difficult to assess trends in inflation, employment, and overall growth. This uncertainty can complicate decision-making for investors, business leaders, and policymakers. Being aware of the updated release schedule is essential for interpreting upcoming economic indicators.

Updated Release Dates and Changes

• Jan. 8: U.S. trade deficit for October (initially planned for December)
• Jan. 9: Housing starts for September and October (September data was originally due Oct. 17)
• Jan. 13: New home sales for September and October (September data was originally set for Oct. 24)
• Jan. 14: Business inventories for October (originally scheduled for December)
• Jan. 14: Retail sales for November (originally planned for December)
• Jan. 14: Producer Price Index (PPI) for November, including part of October's data (originally set for Dec. 11; no separate October report will be issued)
• Jan. 15: U.S. import and export price indexes for November, with some October data (originally scheduled for Dec. 16; no separate October report will be issued)
• Jan. 22: Final update for Q3 Gross Domestic Product (originally planned for Dec. 19)
• Jan. 26: Durable goods orders for November (originally scheduled for December)
• Jan. 30: PPI for December (originally scheduled for Jan. 14)
• Feb. 10: Employment cost index for Q4 (originally set for Jan. 30)
• Feb. 10: U.S. import and export price indexes for December (originally scheduled for Jan. 30)

Reports Still Awaiting New Dates or Canceled

• Advanced reports on the trade deficit, wholesale inventories, and retail inventories for September, October, and November have been canceled.
• PCE price index, personal income, and outlays for October (originally due Nov. 26; November's release is also pending)
• Housing starts for November (originally planned for December)
• Advance estimate of Q4 GDP (originally scheduled for Jan. 29)