The U.S. economy continues to be disrupted. However, the number of infected people has been gradually decreasing this year and some bright spots are gradually emerging. Consumer confidence has increased substantially in the first half of 2021. Unemployment continues to edge downward. Both replacement and construction demand remains very strong, bolstered by a growing housing market and an increased personal savings rate, as a result of last year’s interest rate cuts and household stimulus from the federal government. Material and labor shortages are widespread across supply chains, resulting in limited availability in various industries, including housing, especially in light of high demand.