Jun 24, 2020

An obscure indicator can tell us a lot about global commerce

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

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.

Segments From this episode

COVID-19

As J.C. Penney liquidates merchandise, other retailers scramble to compete

by Andy Uhler

Jun 24, 2020

Department stores have to move inventory quickly, and that can be tough if there's a liquidation sale going on next door.

J.C. Penney filed for bankruptcy in May.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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Race and Economy

Young people see transformational change as the best way forward

by David Brancaccio , Candace Manriquez Wrenn and Daniel Shin

Jun 24, 2020

Majorities of young people, independent of race, perceive problems with systemic racism and systemic discrimination, according to the GenForward survey.

"We have an understanding of systemic racism and policing, political alienation and economic precarity that exists among millennials and Gen-Zers," Cathy Cohen said.

Getty Images

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Music from the episode

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The team

David Brancaccio Host

Victoria Craig Host, BBC

Stephen Ryan Senior Producer, BBC

Jonathan Frewin Producer, BBC

Daniel Shin Producer

Jay Siebold Technical Director

Brian Allison Engineer

Meredith Garretson Senior Producer

Erika Soderstrom Producer

Rose Conlon Producer

Alex Schroeder Producer

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