Group 1 - The U.S. federal government shutdown has lasted three weeks, becoming the second longest in history, with potential to extend into November, surpassing the previous record of 35 days during Trump's first term [1] - The shutdown is causing a "black hole" in economic data, with key releases paused, posing a direct challenge to the Federal Reserve's decision-making for its upcoming meeting [1][2] - Labor market data will be significantly distorted, with an estimated 750,000 federal employees forced to take unpaid leave, potentially raising the unemployment rate by 44 basis points [2] Group 2 - The economic impact of the shutdown is estimated to reduce GDP by approximately 0.25%, with most effects expected to be reversed in the following quarter after the government reopens [2] - The core issue of the shutdown revolves around disagreements over healthcare subsidies, with Democrats seeking relief for 22 million Americans facing rising insurance premiums, while Republicans refuse to negotiate [2][3] - The shutdown is causing widespread disruptions, including significant flight delays, with nearly 20,000 flights affected between October 18 and 20, highlighting the broader societal impact [3]