Unexpected Drop in US Trade Deficit

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

Exports Rise as Imports Dip

Exports of goods saw a significant increase, rising by $7.0 billion from the previous month to reach $178.6 billion. On the other hand, imports experienced a slight decline, dropping by $600 million month-on-month to stand at $326.5 billion.

Wholesale Inventories on the Rise

Wholesale inventories edged up by 0.3% on a monthly basis, reaching an estimated end-of-month level of $902.9 billion in February. This marked a 1.1% increase compared to the same month in 2024.