Jul 31, 2017

07/31/2017: The winners in America’s big retail slump

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Apple is taking some data security software out of its app store in China. Known as virtual private network apps, these services could be used by consumers to thwart government censors. The BBC's Theo Leggett explains the incentive Apple has to remove these VPNs. Afterwards, we'll discuss how the EPA's focus on environmental cleanups may be a way to shift the agency's focus away from climate change, and then look at the success of discount chain stores as retailers struggle.

Segments From this episode

As Apple gets ready to announce earnings, analysts look at how the next iPhone might be priced

by Amy Scott

Jul 31, 2017

Apple’s earnings are out Tuesday amid speculation about its next iPhone offerings. One possibility: that the next iteration will include a souped-up, expensive model that could even break the $1,000 price tag. What features could lure customers to pay that kind of money? And how would phone companies adjust their payment schedules to help customers with […]

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Retail discounters flourish as traditional department stores struggle

by Marketplace Contributor

Jul 31, 2017

Off-price retailers have become a bright spot amidst the doom and gloom of widespread closures of brick-and-mortar stores and online shopping’s growing dominance.

A former Macy's store in North Hollywood, California is fenced off from public access. The Laurel Plaza shopping center location closed its doors in October 2016, one of 68 Macy's stores nationwide to close through Spring 2017.

Libby Denkmann/ for Marketplace

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Despite enacting a budget, Illinois has a financial struggle ahead

by Dan Weissmann

Jul 31, 2017

In two years with no budget, Illinois racked up $10 billion in unpaid bills — and now spends $2 million a day on interest.

The historic Illinois State Capitol building.

Mark Wilson / Getty Images

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EPA turns to environmental cleanup, away from climate change

by Adam Allington

Jul 31, 2017

Tomorrow , the Senate subcommittee that oversees the EPA’s Superfund program is scheduled to hold a hearing on the program’s work. That’s the initiative, begun in 1980, that cleans up sites contaminated with hazardous materials. Under EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, the agency is refocusing its attention toward environmental cleanups. But that doesn’t necessarily mean many […]

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Mid-day Update

07/31/2017: What to expect from the next iPhone

by David Brancaccio

Jul 31, 2017

Discovery Communications is reportedly buying Scripps Networks in a $14.6 billion deal. The two parties think this will become must-see television, especially for women. On today's show, we'll discuss whether this merger has what it takes to succeed. Next, as we wrap up the month, we'll talk about the state of the economy with economist Julia Coronado from Macropolicy Perspectives. Plus: A look at what features the next-generation iPhone might have —and how much it might cost.

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Apple is taking some data security software out of its app store in China. Known as virtual private network apps, these services could be used by consumers to thwart government censors. The BBC’s Theo Leggett explains the incentive Apple has to remove these VPNs. Afterwards, we’ll discuss how the EPA’s focus on environmental cleanups may be a way to shift the agency’s focus away from climate change, and then look at the success of discount chain stores as retailers struggle.