The US economy appears on track to post softer growth in the first-quarter GDP report scheduled for release on Thursday (Apr. 25), based on the median for a set of nowcasts compiled by CapitalSpectator.com. Output for the January-through-March period is currently estimated at a 2.0% increase (seasonally adjusted real annual rate), unchanged from the previous estimate published on Apr. 5. If correct, the moderate increase will mark another quarter of decelerating growth. The economy rose 3.4% in last year’s fourth-quarter, a downshift from the previous quarter. Despite another round of softer growth, most estimates ... (full story)