The Breakdown: Economy

Big retailers are reporting some surprisingly good numbers for the last quarter, but do a few good earnings reports mean a stronger recovery is on the way?

Farm equipment maker John Deere reports earnings today, and good sales for the company may point to a healthier economy overall

With the changing economy, mega-retailer Walmart faces a price competition from higher — and lower-priced stores

The rise in health care spending has tapered off, but this could be a bad thing. Companies are hiring less in uncertain times, and governments have to pick up the slack.