The latest U.S. economic indicators reflect a mixed landscape. Durable goods orders slipped by 0.8% in September, marking a second consecutive monthly decline, hinting at potential softening in capital investments. Job openings, as tracked by the JOLTS report, show a gradual descent, though they remain elevated by pre-pandemic standards. In fiscal terms, the deficit reached $1.8 trillion by September’s end—a stark increase, underscoring fiscal pressures despite consumer sentiment climbing to a six-month peak, bolstered by political optimism.