US Deficit Shrinks To $40.6 Billion As October Petroleum Exports Rise To New Record

Moments ago, the Census Bureau announced that in October the US trade gap narrowed to $40.6 billion (which still missed expectations of “only” a $40 billion deficit) from an upward revised September deficit of $43 billion, as oil sales boosted exports to record level. Total exports rose to a record $192.7 billion up $3.4 billion from last month’s $189.3 billion, while imports rose just $1 billion to  $233.3 billion resulting in a $40.6 billion gap. Among the report highlights: October exports of goods and services ($192.7 billion), exports of goods ($135.3 billion), and exports of services ($57.4 billion) were the highest on record; October imports of goods and services ($233.3 billion) were the highest since March 2012 ($234.3 billion); and perhaps the best news for shale fans: October petroleum exports ($12.5 billion) were the highest on record.

Looking at the key goods category, The September to October increase in exports of goods reflected increases in industrial supplies and materials ($1.5 billion); consumer goods ($1.0 billion); foods, feeds, and beverages ($0.6 billion); capital goods ($0.3 billion); and other goods ($0.2 billion). A decrease occurred in  automotive vehicles, parts, and engines ($0.2 billion). The September to October increase in imports of goods reflected increases in industrial supplies and materials ($0.8 billion); consumer goods ($0.5 billion); other goods ($0.4 billion); and foods, feeds, and beverages ($0.3 billion). Decreases occurred in automotive vehicles, parts, and engines ($1.0 billion) and capital goods ($0.3 billion)

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