Fresh economic data show stronger second-quarter growth and a rebound in private-sector hiring
The U.S. economy grew faster in the second quarter than previously estimated, while private employers added 90,000 jobs in September, according to government and payroll data released Wednesday.
Second-quarter GDP revised higher
The Bureau of Economic Analysis said real gross domestic product increased at an annual rate of 2.2% from April through June. That was revised up from the agency’s previous 1.5% estimate.
BEA attributed the upward revision primarily to stronger estimates for investment, consumer spending and government spending. Consumer spending, investment and exports contributed to overall growth during the quarter.
Private hiring rebounds
Separately, ADP reported that private employers added 90,000 jobs in September, up from a revised 36,000 in August.
Education and health services and leisure and hospitality were among the sectors posting gains, while financial activities and professional and business services showed weakness.
ADP’s report is based on anonymized payroll information covering more than 26 million private-sector employees. It is separate from the Labor Department’s monthly employment report.
Mixed but resilient economic picture
The reports arrive as businesses and households continue to navigate elevated borrowing costs and inflation pressures. The data point to continued economic growth, though labor-market indicators have varied from month to month.
The Labor Department’s broader September employment report will provide another measure of hiring and unemployment.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; ADP National Employment Report, Sept. 30, 2026.
