Fresh data released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Commerce indicated that the U.S. economy regained momentum in the first quarter of 2026, although growth came in just below expectations.
Gross domestic product expanded at an annual rate of 2.0% during the quarter, a notable acceleration from the 0.5% increase recorded in the final quarter of 2025. Economists had projected a slightly stronger rise of 2.1%.
The pickup in economic activity was supported by gains in business investment, exports, consumer spending, and government outlays. At the same time, imports also increased, which partially offset overall growth as they are deducted in GDP calculations.