In December 2024, the U.S. economy exhibited mixed signals, as indicated by recent economic data. Core Durable Goods Orders, which exclude transportation equipment, increased by 0.3%, slightly below the forecasted 0.4%. In contrast, overall Durable Goods Orders, including transportation, declined by 2.2%, a sharper drop than the anticipated 0.3% increase. This downturn was primarily driven by a significant decrease in transportation equipment orders, marking the fourth decline in the past five months.

Regarding the housing market, the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index Composite-20, which tracks home prices in 20 major U.S. metropolitan areas, showed a 4.3% year-over-year increase in November, surpassing the forecasted 4.2% and the previous month's 4.2%. On a month-over-month basis, the index decreased by 0.1%, slightly better than the anticipated 0.2% decline.

These figures suggest a resilient housing market despite challenges in the manufacturing sector. The decline in durable goods orders, particularly in transportation equipment, may reflect ongoing supply chain disruptions and reduced business investment. Conversely, the housing market's steady price growth indicates sustained demand, potentially supported by low mortgage rates and limited housing inventory.