Last week's economic releases included readings on inflation, construction spending and private and public- sector payrolls. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also posted. Inflation Meets Fed Goal, Construction Spending Lower March inflation reached a year-over-year rate of two percent, which is the Federal Reserve's goal for inflation. Inflation rose by 0.20 percent in March to 0.40 percent; analysts expected inflation to rise 0.50 percent. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, met expectations with 0.20 percent growth. Construction spending was lower in March with a negative reading of -1.70 percent. Analysts predicted an … [Read more...]