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Jun 24, 2020

An obscure indicator can tell us a lot about global commerce

Economists track what’s called the Baltic Dry Index as a snapshot of what’s coursing through the arteries of the global economy. Plus, 13 more J.C. Penney stores will close for good. And, surveying millennials about transformational change.

The Baltic Dry Index measures what shipping companies charge to carry bulk goods — things like coal, iron ore, grains. — The Baltic Dry Index measures what shipping companies charge to carry bulk goods — things like coal, iron ore, grains.
Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty Images

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Segments From This Episode

As J.C. Penney liquidates merchandise, other retailers scramble to compete
by Andy Uhler
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Department stores have to move inventory quickly, and that can be tough if there’s a liquidation sale going on next door.
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Young people see transformational change as the best way forward
by David Brancaccio, Candace Manriquez Wrenn and Daniel Shin
Getty Images
Majorities of young people, independent of race, perceive problems with systemic racism and systemic discrimination, according to the GenForward survey.
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The Team

An obscure indicator can tell us a lot about global commerce