Investors bet on a slowed economy despite signs of recovery as politicians debate the pandemic's effects and whether more stimulus is needed

Analysts and politicians weigh in on how recent economic data point to signs of deceleration as the pace of job gains slows and inflation concerns mount.
Investors eye inflation data, upcoming earnings reports and policy as lawmakers attempt to determine if extra unemployment benefits or another round of stimulus checks are warranted.
While energy and health-care stocks lead this week's market gains, economic uncertainty and inflation concerns could pose risks to markets moving forward if left unaddressed by policymakers.
Despite being fully vaccinated, pockets of the general public remain hesitant to resume pre-pandemic activities as variants of the virus continue to spread.
Travel and consumer spending remain below pre-pandemic levels as some industries attempt a comeback while others face permanent damage.