The U.S. economy grew at an annualized rate of 1.5% in the second quarter, driven by strong consumer spending and business investment in artificial intelligence, according to reports. The figure, while modest, reflects underlying strength as these key sectors propelled growth. Meanwhile, Italy's gross domestic product expanded 0.2% in the same period, the national statistics agency Istat reported. Istat also raised its growth forecast for 2026 to 0.8%, signaling optimism about the country's economic trajectory. The contrasting growth rates highlight divergent economic conditions in the world's largest economy and a major European power. U.S. consumer spending remained resilient despite high interest rates, while AI investment surged as companies bet on transformative technology. Italy's slight expansion comes amid ongoing challenges such as inflation and sluggish productivity, but the upward revision for 2026 suggests expectations of gradual improvement. Both reports underscore the varied pace of global economic recovery, with the U.S. benefiting from robust domestic demand and Italy relying on policy support and export performance.