Texas economic growth has picked up with the decline of new COVID-19 cases since July. Still, pockets of deep distress persist in parts of the services, retail and transportation sectors as well as in the energy industry. Continued growth is projected for the rest of the year, but it may be somewhat restrained by the expiration of federal stimulus programs and election uncertainty. Small-business closures may accelerate if the economy doesn’t strengthen sufficiently. Risks to the outlook are to the downside and include a possible resurgence of the virus and sustained lower oil prices. Early arrival of a safe and ... (full story)