Even economists can’t make sense of this economy

Sep 30, 2022

Even economists can’t make sense of this economy

Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

Consumer spending is robust despite high inflation, and that's throwing a lot of economists for a loop. Plus, relief supplies to Puerto Rico were delayed because of a 100-year-old law.

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The Weekly Wrap

“Marketplace” host Kai Ryssdal talks to ADP Chief Economist Nela Richardson and Business Insider’s Linette Lopez about the Bank of England’s market interventions, the latest figures from the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measure, and more.

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The economy is acting weird. Not even economists can fully say why.

by Kristin Schwab

Sep 30, 2022

There are many contradictory economic trends these days, and history isn't providing its usual hints about what will happen next.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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Delayed relief shipments to Puerto Rico rekindle debate over a century-old shipping law

by Andy Uhler

Sep 30, 2022

The Jones Act requires that only U.S. ships carry goods between U.S. ports. It also raises costs in Puerto Rico and elsewhere.

People waited to get gasoline in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, on Sept. 20. A temporary waiver of the Jones Act is allowing new fuel shipments to be delivered.

Jose Jimenez/Getty Images

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The film industry needs customs brokers too

by Sean McHenry

Sep 30, 2022

Olivia Van Dyke, CEO of Film Logic Customs Brokers, talks about the unique challenges of shipping the things that make movie magic happen.

"We ship camera equipment, we ship props, wardrobe, sound equipment," said Olivia Van Dyke of Film Logic Customs Brokers.

Sakis Mitrolidis/AFP via Getty Images

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How do we make roads and bridges more resilient?

by Stephanie Hughes

Sep 30, 2022

As climate change causes more destruction, the upfront costs of upgrading infrastructure may pay off in the long run.

Major bridges in Florida were destroyed by Hurricane Ian, including the Sanibel Causeway, above. The damage cut off thousands of residents from the mainland.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

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Surging energy costs push British businesses to the brink

by Victoria Craig

Sep 30, 2022

The U.K.'s rate of business failure has climbed far above pre-pandemic levels as economic uncertainty reigns.

Energy-intensive businesses like bakeries are suffering energy price shocks. Above, workers at Sourdough Sophia in London.

Victoria Craig/BBC

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The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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