The nation’s business economists have grown much more optimistic about the economy this year, with a majority predicting that increased vaccinations, stronger job gains and further government aid will accelerate growth to its fastest pace in nearly four decades. Economists surveyed by the National Association for Business Economics expect the economy to expand 6.5% this year. That would be the sharpest such increase since 1984. In March, economists had collectively envisioned growth of just 4.8% this year.
Cruise lines are budgeting for extra costs as they prepare to resume voyages out of the U.S. Cruise lines expect to book a mix of one-time and recurring expenses for enhanced sanitation, Covid-19 testing and other measures as they are vying to win back the public’s trust. Cruise operators hope to restart U.S. sailings in July.
