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We write a composition about GDP's composition : Planet Money : The Indicator from Planet Money The Bureau of Economic Analysis released their quarterly gross domestic product report this week. It showed GDP shrank at an annualized rate of 1.4%. Not good. But there's a mix of stories in the details. We explain with the help of a bit of music.

The Indicator from Planet Money

Econ Exploder: GDP

Econ Exploder: GDP

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A ship comes into the port.
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Getty Images
A ship comes into the port.
Getty Images

The United States economy shrank at an annualized rate of 1.4% in the first quarter of the year, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. This indicates shrinking growth. But what should we make of that?

Today, we break down the components of GDP to figure out just how seriously we should be taking this latest indicator. Plus: We search for an easy (hopefully) way to remember the formula for GDP: C + I + G + X - M. Here goes!

Music by Drop Electric. Find us: Twitter / Facebook / Newsletter.

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