Unexpected Drop in Trade Deficit

In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. trade deficit shrank to $147.9 billion in February, marking a $7.7 billion decrease from January's figures. This development came as a shock to analysts who had anticipated a different outcome, according to the preliminary report released by the US Census Bureau on Thursday.

Exports Rise, Imports Dip

February saw a notable increase in goods exports, which climbed by $7.0 billion from the previous month to reach $178.6 billion. Conversely, imports experienced a slight decline, dropping by $600 million month-on-month to settle at $326.5 billion.

Wholesale Inventories Show Growth

Adding to the positive economic indicators, wholesale inventories in February grew by 0.3% on a monthly basis, reaching an estimated end-of-month level of $902.9 billion. This represents a 1.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024.