Washington, DC — Increased economic growth is translating into a stronger job market. Payrolls increased in September, new jobless claims have trended down since April, and most other measures of economic activity have strengthened. Consumer spending and disposable (after tax) income growth were robust, in part due to recent tax relief. Analysts expect that economic growth in the third quarter was very strong, probably close to 5%. Though growth in manufacturing and services has been weaker, recent trends in manufacturing and in orders remain generally positive.