Research the current value of the following economic indicators:

1. GDP
2. CPI
3. Nonfarm payroll employment
4. Industrial production/capacity utilization
5. Advance report on durable goods shipments, new orders, and unfilled orders
6. Housing starts
7. Retail sales
8. S&P 500 Stock Index

Based on your research, write a paper of 500-750 words that addresses the following:

1. Analyze the current macroeconomic situation.
2. Discuss expectations of changes in economic, financial, and international conditions in the near future.
3. Identify any economic issues of special concern.
4. Recommend whether the FOMC should raise, lower, or keep short-term interest rates the same.

The economic data required for this assignment can be found on the Federal Reserve Bank of New York website (http://www.newyorkfed.org/index.html).

Prepare this assignment according to the APA guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.