During a recession, the participation rate typically declines as discouraged workers exit the labor force.

A higher entry cost distorts the industry structure and the allocation of productive factors across firms, which results in lower total factor productivity and output per worker.

Expansions are usually associated with plentiful vacancies and a low number of unemployed workers. During recessions the unemployment pool swells while employers seek to fill fewer job openings.

If employment revisions are systematically biased, they could affect how policy is conducted.

The relationship between unemployment and output growth changes during recoveries.

The spot prices of West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude oil recently diverged. If this divergence persists, economists and energy analysts may want to focus on Brent prices when predicting the level of gasoline prices.

Business cycle measures can provide timely statistical evidence of turning points.

With the funds rate driven to levels far below its target, the FOMC had no recourse but to adjust the target accordingly.

Factors other than changes in oil supply may cause changes in oil prices.