The U.S. economy grew faster than expected in the second quarter, reflecting a higher GDP with help from COVID-19 vaccinations and increased spending. While the GDP rose 6.6%, the Fed kept interest rates low as part of its “easy monetary” policy. Conversely, the Department of Labor reported that state unemployment claims increased to over 350,000, with the economy remaining 5.7 million jobs below its peak in February of 2020.