Nation Jun 12 How expensive parts on modern cars have driven up repair and insurance costs The inflation report finally contained some good news about auto insurance premiums. They've been rising for months and are one part of why inflation has had such a bite. While they finally dipped just a bit, they remain much higher…
Education Jun 04 Why some universities are returning to standardized testing in admissions process Headlines around higher education this year have centered on protests, free speech and student safety. But some important changes on the academic and admissions front have gotten less attention, including some schools turning back to standardized testing after deciding they…
Economy May 15 Inflation cools but rising prices still dominate Americans’ view of economy Inflation cooled somewhat in April, according to new numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The consumer price index rose at an annual rate of 3.4 percent, in line with expectations. But overall, inflation hasn't yet come down quite to…
Nation Apr 18 The benefits of a 4-day workweek, according to employers Nearly one-third of large U.S. firms are exploring new schedules like the four-day workweek. Economics correspondent Paul Solman takes a look at what happened at some companies that tried out a four-day, 32-hour week at the same pay.
Nation Mar 28 Major League Baseball opens season with controversy over ‘papery’ uniforms Thursday is Opening Day for Major League Baseball and it comes after a Spring Training chock full of controversies. Among the eye-catching storylines: a clothing snafu. Economics correspondent Paul Solman has been pulling threads to bring us this report.
Nation Mar 11 How a complicated benefits system lets some fall through the safety net Amid many of the debates around entitlements and benefits, one thing is often lost to the public: Many people who qualify for help struggle to get and keep their benefits because it can be difficult to navigate the system. Economics…
Economy Mar 08 Why many Americans feel unhappy about the economy despite indicators of improvement Friday’s latest jobs report is proof again of a labor market that has been resilient and often stronger than expected. But according to numerous polls, many Americans don’t feel the economy is strong overall or helping them or their families.
Nation Feb 27 Vision for new affordable city in California meets skepticism from locals Cities worldwide are becoming overcrowded, overpriced and a source of global warming. That's why a group called "California Forever" is looking to build a livable, affordable, and eco-friendly community near San Francisco. But some local officials and residents are skeptical…
Nation Feb 20 Low demand for commercial office space fuels economic fears Federal regulators in recent weeks have signaled concerns about commercial real estate, a financial sector that could spell economic trouble. A combination of decreased demand for office space and high interest rates have put pressure on lease holders and smaller…
Nation Dec 29 Why reports of a surge in retail theft may be overblown Most Americans think there’s more crime in the U.S. than there was a year ago, according to a recent Gallup poll. That’s despite clear data showing violent crime has actually dropped sharply in 2023. So why the misperception? Economics correspondent…