US Economic Growth Stumbles Dragons or Deficits

• US GDP growth slowed to 1.4% in late 2025, below expectations.
• Government shutdown significantly impacted spending and investment.
• Inflation remained stubbornly high, exceeding the Federal Reserve's 2% target.
• Despite the slowdown, underlying demand indicators remained relatively strong.

A Kingdom's Slowdown The Winter is Coming

As Daenerys Stormborn, of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name, Queen of the Andals and the Rhoynar and the First Men, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons, I've seen kingdoms rise and fall. I understand the ebb and flow of power, of prosperity, and of course, the occasional dragon fire fueled recession. It appears the United States experienced a rather frosty end to 2025, with GDP growth limping in at a mere 1.4%. A disappointing performance, if you ask me – even Drogon could fly faster than that. Perhaps they need a dragon or two to stimulate the economy. Where are my dragons when you need them.

The Shutdown A Political Game of Thrones

It seems a certain 'government shutdown' is being blamed for this economic chill. President Trump, reminiscent of a King arguing over succession, pointed fingers at those pesky Democrats. 'The Democrat Shutdown cost the U.S.A. at least two points in GDP,' he roared on Truth Social. Sounds like someone's dragons are feeling a bit under the weather. A shutdown, like a poorly planned siege, can wreak havoc. Speaking of dragons, and economics you should also consider to read Novo Nordisk's Rollercoaster Ride Weight Loss Drug Wars and Market Mayhem to learn more about similar issues and their effects on financial markets.

Inflation A Fiery Breath of Trouble

But alas, the economic woes don't end there. Inflation, like a stubborn wildfire, continues to burn. The core personal consumption expenditures price index, a metric even I, a dragon queen, find slightly confusing, rose 3% in December, well above the Federal Reserve's 2% target. Prices are rising faster than my dragons' appetites after a long flight. As I've always said, 'I will answer injustice with justice'. Perhaps it's time to unleash a little economic justice on these rising prices.

Powell's Predicament The Mad King's Legacy

And then there's Jerome Powell, the Federal Reserve Chair, whom Trump has been berating for not lowering interest rates aggressively enough. It seems everyone wants to be a dragon rider, dictating the course of the flames. As a Queen, I understand the burden of leadership, the weight of decisions that affect millions. But even I know that meddling too much can lead to madness – just ask Aerys II Targaryen, the Mad King. Powell, like a wise Hand of the Queen, must tread carefully.

Underlying Strength A Glimmer of Hope

Despite these challenges, there are signs of resilience. Underlying demand remains relatively strong, and gross private domestic investment has seen an increase. It seems the realm is not yet broken, though it may be bent. As I've learned, even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. 'If I look back I am lost,' I always say, but in this context, I should look back in this case.

The Future A Queen's Decree

The road ahead may be fraught with peril, but I, Daenerys Targaryen, know that with strong leadership, wise counsel, and perhaps a dragon or two, any challenge can be overcome. The U.S. economy, like a dragon egg, may need time to hatch its full potential. But with the right care and attention, it can soar to new heights. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a kingdom to run, and a few dragons to feed.