NPR Topics: Business

Understanding The Housing Bill

Congress is expected to vote this week on legislation to address the home foreclosure crisis, and shore up mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Here, a look at what the bill would do.

How To Define The Economy

Recession, inflation or slowdown? Defining the state of our economy isn't easy. We examine the indicators economists use to measure the financial future.

You Too Can Help Manage A Sinking Bank

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, which steps in to manage banks that are seized by the federal government, is hiring. With the recent spate of bank failures, it is finding itself short-staffed.

How Bailouts Work And Other Questions

Last week, we asked you to send questions about how economic problems are affecting your finances. James Early, senior analyst at the Motley Fool, breaks down the nuances of loans, retirement savings and bailouts.

New Mexico Boosts Economy With Rodeos

Three years ago New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson formed a rodeo council to help his state's economy. The effort is beginning to pay off. This week, the state hosts the National High school rodeo finals, billed the "world's largest rodeo."

'Marketplace' Report: Trouble In Journalism

The New York Times says ad revenues fell 12 percent last quarter and is working its way through several rounds of buyouts. Meanwhile, the Chicago Tribune, Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times are cutting back. What does this mean for journalism?

Pulitzer-Prize Winning Reporter Quits Journalism

Maurice Possley, one of the Chicago Tribune reporters whose work led to Illinois' death penalty moratorium, is resigning. He says the paper is dismantling itself in ways that hurt its ability to do good, meaningful journalism.

Dear Oscars, Popular Movies Are Good Too

The Oscars telecast has experienced poor ratings in recent years. Summer films gave critic Andrew Wallenstein an idea about how to get more people to watch the ceremony: nominate films people actually go to see.

What Happened To Kids Books?

Books inspired by PG-13 movies are taking over library shelves. Can See Iron Man Run really be good for young readers? Alex Cohen talks with Slate.com writer Erica Perl about the pros and cons of "fast-food lit."

Bush Drops Opposition To Housing Rescue Bill

President Bush reversed his stance on a congressional plan to help Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac weather the mortgage crisis and to provide struggling homeowners with more affordable loans. White House press secretary Dana Perino said the president had decided it was not the time for a veto fight.

Financial Stocks Lift Despite Bad Earnings

Wachovia announced multibillion-dollar losses related to the mortgage crisis Tuesday. But instead of upsetting investors, the news helped lift financial stocks and the rest of the market.

Housing Bill Calls For New Fannie-Freddie Regulator

Congress is expected to vote this week on legislation that addresses the home foreclosure crisis and provides financial aid to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The struggling firms are currently regulated by a division of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The bill would establish a new, independent regulator.

Sen. Dodd: Fannie, Freddie 'Too Big To Fail'

The rescue plan for giant mortgage companies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac promises credit and possible stock purchases. It might cost the U.S. nothing — or it might cost $25 billion. Democratic Sen. Christopher Dodd says balancing investor confidence and taxpayer exposure is a fine line, but "doing nothing is not an option."

Oil Prices Fall Amid Signs Of Easing U.S. Demand

Deborah Amos has this morning's business news.

Strategy For Home Sellers: Bury Saint Joseph

Steve Inskeep has today's Last Word in business.