consumer

Economists love to use the term "opportunity cost." In fact, you've probably heard it before. But what is it exactly? Senior producer and Whiteboard expert Paddy Hirsch explains.

Most people remember the idea of the free market's "invisible hand," but it turns out, Adam Smith had a lot to say about consumers, too.

We all want our kids to get into the best colleges they can. Some families take extra measures and spend extra money in pursuit of an edge.

Marketplace will spend a week looking at all aspects of the consumer economy -- from businesses to workers to shoppers -- and ask: Can we keep going at this rate?

The latest American Customer Satisfaction Index is out, and one industry in an unfortunate spot when it comes to customer satisfaction: Internet service providers.

Consumers had a strong February -- spending jumped 0.7 percent and personal income rose 1.1 percent.

New research indicates that the main protection against the mosquito, DEET, may not be as effective as originally thought.

Visual artist Kate Bingaman-Burt draws one thing she buys every day to help her be more mindful of her spending habits. Her new book encourages others to do the same.

Retail sales in the U.S. jumped by almost a percent last month. That was the first uptick in four months, as consumers spent their money on everything from cars to electronics.

Oil prices have jumped to a three month high in overseas trading. Brent Crude is at $114 a barrel this morning, despite forecasts that say global oil demand will be lower than first expected.