Economy Grew Slightly Faster Than Estimated in First Quarter

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. economy expanded a little faster at the beginning of the year than previously estimated. But the pace was still anemic and economists don't see that changing much in the coming months.

The Commerce Department says the economy grew at a 1.9 percent annual rate in the January-March quarter. That's not much better than the 1.8 percent rate estimated a month ago. The small upward revision reflected stronger exports and more business spending on stockpiles.

In an Associated Press survey, economists predict the economy will grow at a 2.3 percent rate in the current quarter and 2.6 percent for the full year, far below what is needed to make significant improvements in unemployment.