U.S. GDP Growth Expected to Surpass 5% in Early 2026, Says Commerce Secretary

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated on January 21 that the country's GDP growth is anticipated to exceed 5% in the first quarter of 2026. According to BlockBeats, Lutnick highlighted that the current high interest rates are hindering stronger economic growth. Speaking at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, Lutnick remarked, "Our interest rates should be lower for the economy to truly thrive. I believe GDP will grow over 5% this quarter, which is significant for the $3 trillion U.S. economy. If rates were lower, growth could even reach 6%. Our current policies are holding us back." It is important to note that Lutnick's growth forecast reflects his personal opinion and is higher than the expectations of U.S. Treasury Secretary Besant, who suggested at Davos that the real GDP growth in 2026 might range between 4% and 5%.