The US economy has sailed through some rough currents this year but now faces a convergence of hazards that threaten to create more turbulence, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) said.

Among the possible challenges this fall: a broader auto workers strike, a lengthy government shutdown, the resumption of student loan payments and rising oil prices.

Each on its own wouldnt do too much harm. Together, they could be more damaging, particularly when the economy is already cooling due to high interest rates, WSJ said.

"Its that quadruple threat of all elements that could disrupt economic activity," The Wall Street Journal quoted chief economist at EY-Parthenon Gregory Daco as saying.

It added that many analysts expect slower economic growth this fall but not a recession. Daco forecasts economic growth to slow sharply to a 0.6% annual rate in the fourth quarter from an expected 3.5% gain during the current quarter. Economists at Goldman Sachs expect growth to cool to a 1.3% rate next quarter, from a 3.1% gain in the third.

So far in 2023, robust consumer spending and historically low unemployment have supported solid US economic activity, despite the Federal Reserve lifting interest rates to the highest level in 22 years to fight inflation by slowing growth. Growth in Europe and China, meanwhile, has slowed sharply.

One economic threat is a wider and more prolonged strike by the United Auto Workers against three Detroit automakers. Nearly 13,000 workers began striking three plants on Sept. 15.

WSJ quoted UAW President Shawn Fain as saying on Friday that the strikes would expand to 38 General Motors and Stellantis parts-distribution centers across 20 states.

The initial impact of the limited strike is expected to be modest, but a broader work stoppage could curb auto production and drive up vehicle prices. Workers at auto-parts suppliers could also lose their jobs, the newspaper said. (MORE)

Source: Qatar News Agency