Jan 9, 2025

Measuring uncertainty

Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

Do you feel uncertain about the future economy? You aren't alone. Plus, what we can do to make our homes and communities more resilient against fire.

Segments From this episode

White House plans new limits on exports of AI tech, vexing industry

by Sabri Ben-Achour

Jan 9, 2025

China is said to be a key target of rules motivated by national security. The tech industry calls it overreach.

President Biden shows off a semiconductor wafer during a tour of an Intel factory in Arizona. He's expected to tighten rules around sales of chips that power artificial intelligence.

Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

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As wildfires burn in Los Angeles, insurers brace for a potential financial disaster

by Amy Scott and Sarah Leeson

Jan 9, 2025

The system is already strained by climate-induced disasters, says Wharton's Ben Keys. Homeowners across the state may bear some of the cost.

The number of structures destroyed by wildfires in Los Angeles continues to grow, racking up large obligations for insurers. The state is likely to be involved in the final accounting.

Apu Gomes/Getty Images

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Is economic uncertainty a feeling ... or a fact?

by Kristin Schwab

Jan 9, 2025

Turns out it's a bit of both — and measurable.

One way to measure economic uncertainty? The Economic Policy Uncertainty Index, which uses keyword mentions in news outlets as a proxy for uncertainty.

Douglas Rissing/Getty Images

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Los Angeles Wildfires

What would it take to make U.S. cities fireproof?

by Caleigh Wells

Jan 9, 2025

Devastation in LA and elsewhere has taught us what can help prevent catastrophes — more firefighters, improved water systems and mitigation.

One way to mitigate the effects of future wildfires? More firefighters.

Nick Ut/Getty Images

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Thailand's auto industry faces tough times, but electric vehicles provide hope

by Jennifer Pak

Jan 9, 2025

As Japanese automakers slow production, Thailand is banking on investment from China to build up its EV manufacturing base.

During a successful holiday season, this bakery's orders "exploded"

by Andie Corban

Jan 9, 2025

Rita Magalde, owner of Sheer Ambrosia, just completed her first holiday season in a commercial kitchen space.

Magalde said it was "night and day" working out of a commercial kitchen for the busy holiday season.

Armend Nimani/Getty Images

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Music from the episode

Social Insecurity Oddissee

Greyhounds De La Soul

A Thousand Shapes of Change Tommy Guerrero

Notion Tash Sultana

Silver City Richard Houghten

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sarah Leeson Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Sofia Terenzio Associate Producer I

Jordan Mangi Assistant Digital Producer

Nicholas Guiang Assistant Producer

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