Aug 9, 2018

Half of (corporate) marriages don’t work out

There are no trade stories in today's podcast (you're welcome). Instead, we're talking about mergers and acquisitions. This summer has seen several high-profile deals go through and others fall apart. That's not unusual. In fact, one out of five announced mergers don't end up happening at all, and only half are successful. Why do they fall apart? Mostly because of people. Then, in light of the insider trading charges against Rep. Chris Collins, we'll look at congressional investing do's and don'ts. Plus, the business of the Academy Awards and what "outstanding achievement in popular film" means anyway.

Segments From this episode

A major barrier to a college degree for low-income Californians: housing costs

by Vanessa Rancano

Aug 9, 2018

Housing costs — more than tuition — are hurting California’s low-income college students.

Students walk near Sather Gate on the University of California at Berkeley campus.

Justin Sullivan / Getty Images

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"Undocumented" is a picture book that's not just for kids

by Kai Ryssdal and Maria Hollenhorst

Aug 9, 2018

Author-illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh looks at the plight of undocumented workers in the United States.

The cover of "Undocumented: A Worker's Fight" by Duncan Tonatiuh.

Undocumented: A Worker's Fight, by Duncan Tonatiuh © Abrams ComicArts, 2018

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Day laborers are pressed by Trump immigration policies

by Mitchell Hartman

Aug 9, 2018

Supply and demand of the workers, many of whom are unauthorized, hasn't diminished in many cities in spite of the White House's immigration crackdown.

Day laborers wait for offers of work outside the Don Bosco workers center in Port Chester, New York.

Mitchell Hartman/Marketplace

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There are no trade stories in today’s podcast (you’re welcome). Instead, we’re talking about mergers and acquisitions. This summer has seen several high-profile deals go through and others fall apart. That’s not unusual. In fact, one out of five announced mergers don’t end up happening at all, and only half are successful. Why do they fall apart? Mostly because of people. Then, in light of the insider trading charges against Rep. Chris Collins, we’ll look at congressional investing do’s and don’ts. Plus, the business of the Academy Awards and what “outstanding achievement in popular film” means anyway.