GDP growth comes at expense of consumer savings

Fresh data showed the economy grew faster than expected, at a 3.4% annual rate (bea.gov/news/2026/gdp-advance-estimate-3rd-qua…) in the third quarter. Prices grew too (bea.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/pi0926.pdf), by 3.6%. Robust consumer spending tends to drive GDP, but the consumer savings rate — an important financial cushion — is falling. In this episode, when will strong topline economic figures catch up to a precarious consumer reality? Plus: Alphabet stock slides after a disappointing earnings report, apple orchards reap the devastating effects of unusual spring weather, and jobless stats misalign with labor market perceptions.

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Read the stories in today’s episode:

• The economy grew 3.4% this summer, but consumers got there by saving less (marketplace.org/story/2026/10/29/gdp-is-up-34-…)
• Unemployment numbers are near a 57-year low. Why doesn't it feel like it? (marketplace.org/story/2026/10/29/unemployment-…)
• Here's why Alphabet stock plummeted today (marketplace.org/story/2026/10/29/why-did-alpha…)
• China, the world's second largest economy, considers itself "developing." Why? (marketplace.org/story/2026/10/29/why-china-con…)
• Apple-picking looks different this season after “devastating year" for orchards (marketplace.org/story/2026/10/29/for-pennsylva…)