Recent economic data reflected a modest economic weakening of conditions in the context of elevated inflation, according to Construction Materials Economist Ed Sullivan. Consumer spending increased – but at a rate less than expected. As a result, inventories rose – sending a signal that future production may come in light. GDP for the fourth quarter was revised down from 0.7%…
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Sullivan Looks at Iran Conflict Impact
Construction materials economist Ed Sullivan has released “Alternative 2026 Outlooks: How the Iran Crisis Could Shift Inflation, Interest Rates and Construction Recovery,” his latest missive on factors that could impact the construction economy.
Read MoreSullivan Releases Spring 2026 Outlook
The latest Spring 2026 Construction, Cement & Concrete Outlook from The Sullivan Report reveals the impact of the Iran conflict, economic uncertainty and the industries’ recovery timeline shifting.
Read MoreDodge Momentum Index Higher in December
The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI), issued by Dodge Construction Network grew 7.0% in December to 296.8 (2000=100) from the upwardly revised November reading of 277.4.
Read MoreThe 2026 Construction, Cement and Concrete Outlook
By Ed Sullivan The U.S. cement market has been in a decline for three consecutive years. This translates into more than a 10 million metric ton decline since 2022. The volume loss has pushed clinker utilization rates below 80%, reduced reliance on imports, and prompted a moderation in cement and concrete pricing.
Read MoreSullivan Reveals 2026 Outlook
Construction materials economist Ed Sullivan released his 2026 Construction, Cement and Concrete Outlook as the cement market marks three consecutive years in decline.
Read MoreAlternative Mid-Year Economic Forecast Scenarios
By Ed Sullivan All forecasts contain risk that can originate from the data used, the process of calculations, the assumptions, or a combination of each element. Indeed, an infinite number of alternative scenarios to the Baseline Scenario exists, and each materializes with even small changes in assumptions.
Read MoreU.S. Summer Cement Outlook
Construction Materials Economist Ed Sullivan just came out with his Summer Forecast. His conclusion: the near-term outlook is sour. The Summer Forecast reflects rising tariff-induced inflation, a significant consumer spending slowdown, a weaker job market, and an initially hesitant Federal Reserve that is slow to cut interest rates.
Read MoreStagflation is Here: A Quick Review of What the Latest Economic Data Means
By Ed Sullivan The latest economic data, on its surface, presents a stronger-than-expected economic picture. Headline GDP growth of 3% exceeded most expectations even in the context of slower consumer spending. Headline consumer confidence edged up, although the present situation index eased a bit. Inflation measured by the personal consumer expenditures came in at 2.8% year-over-year (Y-O-Y), a bit stronger…
Read MoreSullivan Takes Aim at Retail Construction
Construction-materials economist Ed Sullivan is taking aim at retail construction, noting that it does not get much attention, but it is critical to a recovery in private, nonresidential cement and concrete consumption.
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