5 things to know about a stunning week for the economy

The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity.

Data this week showed the economy growing at the fastest pace in nearly two years from July to September. Other reports have also showcased the resilience of the economy.

It's a stunning development, considering that at the beginning of the year, many economists predicted that the economy would tip into a recession as a result of the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes.

So what gives?

Here are five takeaways about today's economy, including why forecasters are cautioning that the