🌎 It’s World Press Freedom Day. Stand with Marketplace and our independent journalism. Donate now

The debt limit is not a tool for "extortion," Biden adviser Lael Brainard says

The new head of the National Economic Council on inflation, supply chains, jobs and post-SVB bank regulation.
The investing in America agenda “is transformative," Lael Brainard says. "It has the power to reindustrialize the U.S. economy."
Drew Angerer/Getty Images

UK public sector workers battle for pay hikes that match inflation

Apr 25, 2023
Following a rash of strikes in the public sector, some British workers have settled their pay disputes, but more are taking further action. And the government is striking back.
Doctors striking for a 35% increase in pay.
Mimisse Beard

Watch prices and credit ahead of next rate decision, Chicago Fed CEO says

Apr 19, 2023
The intensity of a coming economic slowdown will depend on how much banks tighten credit conditions, says Austan Goolsbee.
Austan Goolsbee jokes that his informal speaking style makes the Fed's media staff sweat. "Every time I stand up, they’re like, 'Oh, no.'”
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Climbing housing costs rob Houston of reputation for affordability

Apr 18, 2023
Many Houston residents spend well over 30% of their income on shelter. On top of that, transportation costs are a growing burden on commuters.
Some Houston residents find themselves even more cost burdened than their counterparts in Los Angeles County. Transportation costs are part of the problem.
Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

The way of water: Running a business on the banks of the Wisconsin River

Apr 17, 2023
As seasonal businesses focus on inflation and new hires for the summer, the shadow of a possible recession looms in the background.
"In general, people will continue to recreate even during a recession," said Scott Teuber of Wisconsin River Outings.
courtesy Scott Teuber

Eggs are cheaper, but not housing? Inside the latest consumer price index

The March report shows inflation slowing overall and prices easing in some key areas (food) and not in others (services and shelter.)
Egg prices dropped 10% and fruits and vegetables fell 1.3% from February, according to the CPI. But overall food and beverage prices were up more than 8% from last year.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

Grocery inflation cools while restaurant prices continue to rise

Apr 12, 2023
Because a restaurant tab pays for more than just the food on the table.
Rising wages are the main reason restaurants are increasing prices. Many eateries have boosted pay, hoping to attract and retain staff.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

What to look for in the Fed's latest meeting minutes

Apr 12, 2023
Fed watchers pore over the document in minute detail in search of clues about future rate hikes.
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks at a news conference following a Federal Open Market Committee meeting.
Win McNamee/Getty Images

Immigration is slowly increasing after a stark pandemic drop

Apr 10, 2023
Here's what that could mean for the labor market — and inflation.
Above, a U.S. naturalization ceremony in Boston on Jan. 5. An uptick in the number of immigrants could help ease persistent labor shortages.
Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images