Our American readers can be excused for making a bit of noise on this 4th of July.
Figures just out provide some cause for celebration. Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in June, and the overall economy grew for the 97th consecutive month, according to the latest Manufacturing ISM Report on Business.
The overall index was up from May, while there were also increases in new orders, production, employment, supplier deliveries, inventories and prices, but rises in raw materials costs are slowing.
Exports were also up, which should impact on the trade balance.
So, there are some reasons to celebrate!