In a report that could help the Federal Reserve decide whether to raise interest rates this month, the central bank said Wednesday the U.S. economy grew a bit more slowly from early July to mid August as consumer spending accelerated but a strong dollar and low oil prices continued to weigh on activity (USA Today).

The U.S. trade deficit fell in July to its lowest level in five months as exports rose broadly, signaling underlying strength in the economy amid concerns about a global growth slowdown. (Reuters).

U.S. factory activity grew in August at its slowest pace for more than two years, a sign that turmoil overseas and a strong dollar are restraining the domestic economy (Wall Street Journal).