The U.S. economy grew by a sluggish 2.2 percent in the fourth quarter

The U.S. economy’s third quarter showed the strongest growth (5 percent) in 11 years, but the fourth quarter, not so much.

A report released today by the Commerce Department shows that the economy grew at an annual rate of 2.2 percent, though early estimates pegged that number at 2.6 percent. The harsh winter may have been to blame for the fourth quarter's lackluster performance.

Analysts, however, are hopeful that the sluggish cycle won’t become a trend. Some economists have forecasted a growth rate of 3.1 percent for the year, which would be the best GDP performance since 2005.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Sign up