On Thursday, July 30, 2020, the Bureau of Economic Analysis released gross domestic product (GDP) data which revealed what most already knew—that the U.S. economy suffered historic losses in the 2^nd quarter. GDP contracted at an annualized rate of 32.9% in the 2^nd quarter of 2020, the worst drop on record. This data does not mean that the economy shrank by a third. The annualized rate is often used to report on changes in the economy; however, it is not as helpful a concept during this period. The annualized rate assumes that the GDP change in the 2^nd quarter would also be experienced over the following 3 quarters—that is, over a whole year. Looking ahead to the 3^rd quarter, it is very likely that economic conditions will improve.

Over the April through June period, GDP fell by 9.5%, which is not the annualized rate. However, no matter how the GDP change is measured, the 2^nd quarter decline represents the biggest economic contraction in the post-World War II era. By comparison, the worst quarter during the 2008 recession was an 8.4% GDP decline in Q4 2008.

The same day the GDP data were announced, the Department of Labor released data that showed that the number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits increased for the 2^nd week in a row. An estimated 1.4 million people filed for unemployment benefits in the week ending July 25. There has been a similar trend in Virginia. More than 46,000 Virginians applied for unemployment benefits last week, which was an increase from the week prior, and the second weekly increase in a row. About 345,000 Virginians continued to receive unemployment benefits.

The GDP and unemployment data released today demonstrates both the severity of the economic downturn, as well as the uncertain nature of the recovery. While economists generally expect the economy to turnaround in the 3^rd quarter, there is growing consensus that the recovery has slowed. Consumer confidence faltered in July after improving in June. Rising COVID-19 cases, some in parts of Virginia, are forcing businesses to re-close and lay off workers. Workers are dealing with the ramifications of schools opening virtually.

This uncertainty in the economy means that Virginia REALTORS^® should be prepared to continue to make use of the virtual tools and social distancing techniques that have helped sustain the housing market. Virginia REALTORS^® will continue to support members with education and resources to help REALTORS^® serve homebuyers and sellers.