Strong Productivity Rise Expected in 4th Qtr.

Inflation watchers may take comfort from reports this week that are likely to show the biggest quarterly rise in the productivity of U.S. workers in seven years and the smallest increase in consumer credit in three months. Productivity probably accelerated at a 6.2% annual rate in the fourth quarter, up from the government’s initial estimate of 5%--and the strongest gain since a 7.4% rise in the fourth quarter of 1992, according to a Labor Department report due Tuesday. Also Tuesday, a Federal Reserve report probably will show borrowing through credit cards, auto loans and other consumer loans increased by $7.2 billion, the smallest gain since $5.2 billion in October, analysts said. Improved business efficiency and tamer consumer demand could help ease the Fed’s concern about the booming economy draining the labor market of workers and pushing prices higher for goods and services.