Economy

The price of copper usually tells us a lot about the future of global economic growth. But recent developments could make it less accurate as an economic indicator.

Banks hold lots of government bonds, and when their value goes down, it can make lending out money less attractive.

High prices and a moribund housing market have homeowners putting off improvement projects. Home Depot, Lowe’s, and their competitors are feeling the pinch.

The rise reflects increased jet fuel costs and the loss of discount airline Spirit Airlines, but demand for first class and economy-plus has remained strong.

And it’s already too expensive for many Americans.

The stock market gets the movies and big headlines. But now, bond traders are having a moment in the spotlight — for better or worse.

Diesel now exceeds $6 per gallon. And much of what you buy at the supermarket probably got there on a diesel-fueled truck.

So-called “Main Street Millionaires” — as they’ve been dubbed in a new book by economists Owen Zidar and Eric Zwick — have more than 13 times the wealth of the Forbes 400. So who are they?

The Fed is expected to raise interest rates at its next meeting, and it won’t be alone. The ECB has already raised rates, and Japan is expected to follow suit.

Higher interest rates will mean higher return on U.S. investments — but in order to invest in the U.S., you need U.S. dollars.