Economy
Inflation rose less than expected in September, the U.S. belatedly reports
The federal government recalled some furloughed workers specifically to produce the inflation report, which plays a key role for Social Security beneficiaries.
Boo to spooky chocolate prices! It’s the year of chewy, fruity Halloween treats
Sales of non-chocolate candy are growing faster than those of chocolate. With cocoa in shortage, manufacturers are changing pack sizes, adding fillers and dipping candy in "white creme."
Starter homes are scarce. But homebuyers can improve their odds
For decades, construction of smaller, entry-level homes has been has been falling. But there are ways to find an affordable first home, and the changing market may help.
Hyundai still committing billions to Louisiana steel mill after ICE raid in Georgia
The immigration raid last month has analysts questioning whether President Donald Trump’s immigration and manufacturing goals are at odds.
With steep tariffs on Indian imports, Diwali is expensive to celebrate this year in Alabama
"I guess if I had to take it in a positive way, I would say it's making the artists come out of all of the parents," said one Bollywood dance instructor who is forgoing new costumes this year for her students.
A theory why the internet is going down the toilet
A new book diagnoses a sickness affecting some of America's biggest companies.
Amid tariff costs, a ‘speed dating’ event helps connect Southern auto suppliers, makers
Manufacturers like Hyundai gathered in Huntsville to hear pitches from U.S. suppliers, as tariffs have prompted them to look for local options.
The two wildcards shaping the tail end of the Virginia race for governor
Virginia is just weeks away from electing a new governor, but the government shutdown and an explosive text message scandal in the race for attorney general could reshape the election.
Health insurance premiums are going up next year — unless you work at these companies
As U.S. health insurance costs rise, some companies are paying for all of their workers' premiums. It's a big expense — but they say it pays off.
3 share Nobel Prize in Economics for work on technology, growth and creative destruction
Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion and Peter Howitt won the Nobel memorial prize in economics Monday for their research on how technological innovation fuels economic growth and creative destruction.
Trump threatens tech export limits, new 100% tariff on Chinese imports
President Trump threatened to place an additional 100% tax on Chinese imports starting on Nov. 1 or sooner, potentially escalating tariff rates close to levels that in April fanned fears of a recession.
Renewable energy outpaces coal for electricity generation in historic first, report says
For the first time on record, renewable energy generated more electricity for the planet than coal, a new report says.
What are your holiday shopping plans? NPR wants to hear from you
Is this the season of cutbacks or splurges? As we prepare to cover holiday shopping and deals, NPR wants to hear from you, whatever your plans may be.
Why gold is having its best year since 1979
The price of gold hit $4,000 per ounce for the first time ever. It's a bad sign for the U.S. economy
Space Command is moving jobs to Huntsville. Will workers move with it?
An Inspector General’s report last year revealed Space Command leadership worried civilian workers would not relocate to Alabama.
Shutdown has already delayed the jobs report. More critical reports could be held up
The government's monthly jobs report was not published Friday as a result of the federal shutdown. That's left businesses and policymakers in the dark about the strength of the U.S. job market.
Coalition raises concerns surrounding manufacturer’s environmental, labor practices in small Alabama town
The report from the Good Neighbors Alabama coalition concerns the Neptune Technology Group plant in Tallassee.
Trump’s controversial nominee drops bid to head vital data-gathering agency
Trump's pick to lead the agency tracking unemployment and inflation has withdrawn after withering criticism from across the political spectrum. The White House says a new nominee will be named soon.
Germany thrived in the first China Shock. But the next one could prove catastrophic.
The export-led industrial model that Germany has pursued for decades is now at a crossroads.
Why friends are teaming up to buy homes
Buying a home is a conventional milestone for couples. But as home prices skyrocket, many Americans are buying homes with someone who isn't their romantic partner.
Trump to place import taxes on drugs, home furnishings and heavy trucks
President Trump said he will put import taxes of 100% on pharmaceutical drugs, 50% on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, 30% on upholstered furniture and 25% on heavy trucks starting on Oct. 1.
Starbucks is closing more stores and laying off 900 workers
The coffee giant plans to cut 900 corporate jobs and shut down about 1% of its stores as the chain's turnaround plan approaches a one-year mark.
Americans are crazy for shrimp. Much of it came from India — until now
India's shrimp exports to the U.S. were once a success story. Now the industry faces ruin amid President Trump's 50% tariff on imports from the country.
Lawyers vs. engineers: Dan Wang sees U.S.-China dynamics in a new paradigm
In a new book, analyst Dan Wang uses "engineering state" vs. "lawyerly society" to explain how China got ahead and America stagnated.
Grocery prices have jumped up, and there’s no relief in sight
Groceries saw their biggest jump in nearly three years last month, a worrisome sign for inflation-weary shoppers. Tariffs are contributing to higher prices for imported staples like bananas and coffee.
Why beef prices are higher than ever (and shoppers are finally resisting)
American ranchers are raising the fewest cows in decades. Through the price increases, American shoppers have stayed loyal to their love of burgers and steaks — until now.
Facing Trump’s pressure, the Fed is likely to cut rates for the first time this year
The Fed is likely to lower interest rates by a quarter percentage point Wednesday in an effort to cushion the sagging job market. The move comes as policymakers face growing pressure from Trump.
Appeals court says Lisa Cook can stay on the Federal Reserve board — for now
A federal appeals court blocked President Trump from firing Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, just ahead of a key vote on interest rates.
Who is Fed nominee Stephen Miran, and why is he so controversial?
Stephen Miran, who has served in both Trump administrations, said he will not resign from the White House if confirmed to the Federal Reserve Board, further stoking concerns about its independence.
Inflation climbs in August as grocery and gas prices jump
Inflation accelerated in August as Americans paid more for gasoline and groceries. Over the last 12 months, consumer prices have risen 2.9%.
BLS revision shows hiring was overstated by 911,000 jobs in past year
The U.S. likely added 900,000 fewer jobs in the 12 months ending in March than had been reported, according to a preliminary Labor Department report.
Here’s what happens when private equity buys homes in your neighborhood
What makes rents go down and neighborhood diversity go up? Corporate landlords. But they also make it harder to own for yourself.
