The Indicator from Planet Money

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank continues to ripple across banking and tech. Today, three indicators on the fallout, including what's next for some startup CEOs and why you might be hearing the term, moral hazard. And we talk about the other bank failure that's been overshadowed by SVB, New York-based Signature Bank.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

It's time for another edition of the Beigie Awards! Today, our winner comes through with one of the best anecdotes in Beigie history with a story about a Montana construction company that flew in workers via a private jet.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Why are American consumers paying out the wazoo for drugs? Drug companies say it's because they need that money to fund the research and development that goes into making new life-saving drugs. Today we talk to a health economist who says you actually can have it all, lower prices and more innovation.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Prices are rising. A major bank has collapsed. And the Fed is left holding the hose trying to put out these fires. The question of whether to raise interest rates or not just got even more challenging.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

For decades, Silicon Valley Bank was the bank for thousands of startups and tech companies in the Bay Area. No longer. SVB's sudden failure last week has roiled the tech world. And it forced regulators to step in as concerns grew about the wider financial system. On today's episode, we look at what happened at SVB, and the three reasons that made the bank especially vulnerable to collapse.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Millions of people opted out of the labor force during the pandemic, and the Federal Reserve's most recent update on the economy explains why. Today, we hear from people who made that decision to leave the workforce.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

After a series of train derailments, the railroad industry is under scrutiny from politicians, the public and rail workers themselves. Many workers blame a relatively new management philosophy called precision-scheduled railroading (PSR). What is PSR and how has it changed the industry?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The U.S. is helping broker a $20 billion deal to transition Indonesia off coal. The hope is this climate financing plan could be a model to move other developing counties away from coal-fired electricity. But Indonesian energy experts and solar executives worry much of this deal may just be "omong kosong" — empty talk. Today on The Indicator, we bring you an episode of Short Wave, NPR's daily science podcast. Climate solutions reporter Julia Simon breaks down the realities and limitations of Indonesia's renewable energy aspirations with Short Wave co-host Aaron Scott. (You can read more about this story here.)

It's another listener questions episode where we take on what you want to know! On today's show... We look at the U.S. birth rate. Are we booming or busting? Does the Consumer Price Index capture what's happening in rural America? And copyrighting knitting & sewing patterns, it's a tangled issue! If you have a question you'd like us to answer, email us at indicator@npr.org.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The UK's withdrawal from the European Union in 2020 came with plenty of challenges. And now one of its biggest — how to deal with Northern Ireland — may finally be resolved. On today's episode, we hear from a small business owner whose land and operations are split by the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Washington is doubling down on the industries it wants to see grow. From semiconductor chips to lithium-ion batteries, we trace where the money is going and why. And which part's got the European Union all bent outta shape.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org

For more than a decade, China has been a leader in global manufacturing, producing everything from trinkets and toys to advanced electronics. But there's another country looking to challenge China for manufacturing dominance: India.We ask, what would it take for India to become the world's factory?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

In 1957, a group of scientists fed up with their boss set the modern venture capital model in motion. Today, the story of the unconventional investment idea behind Silicon Valley startup culture and so much of the technology we use today. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Consumers and politicians around the country are making a lot of noise about price gouging. But when do prices cross the line from simply high to something more painful? We talk to an economist to find out.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

From the depths of econ twitter straight to your podcast feed – this is economemes. Our guests bring us their favorite economic memes and explain what they mean. Can econ be funny? Only you can decide!For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

On this day one year ago, Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Today, we cover three indicators about the war's economic impact. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Do work requirements actually work? The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, will soon require some benefit recipients to work in order to receive government aid. New economic research looks at whether that approach is effective in getting participants into the workforce and earning more.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Americans love TikTok – 100 million of them and counting. So why are politicians at the federal, state and local levels on both sides of the aisle calling for the China-owned social media app to be banned? We peer behind the rhetoric to see if there's anything to the labeling of TikTok as a national security threat. And we hear about the extraordinary plan the company has devised to stave off extinction in the U.S.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org

How one man's legal fight turned 26 ambiguous words from a 1996 law into the shield big tech companies use today. This key part of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act is at the heart of two cases being argued this week before the Supreme Court.This episode originally came out in April 2021.

Economic news of the week – from the government's new projections on unemployment and inflation to the latest retail spending numbers. Plus, what's the deal with companies retaliating against union organizers?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

One of the most important tools the federal government has for cracking down on greenhouse gas emissions is a single number: the social cost of carbon. It represents all the damage from carbon emissions — everything from the cost of lost crops to the cost of climate-related deaths. Currently, the cost is $51 per ton of carbon, but the Environmental Protection Agency has proposed raising it to $190. Today on The Indicator, we bring you an episode of Short Wave, NPR's daily science podcast. NPR climate correspondent Rebecca Hersher and Short Wave co-host Aaron Scott discuss how this new number is simultaneously more accurate and an ethics nightmare.

The quest for dominance in artificial intelligence is taking shape in the tech world with some familiar players. Both Google and Microsoft are spending billions to come out on top of the chatbot arms race. Today, we put ChatGPT and Bard to the test to see which company hosts the superior chatbot. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The latest inflation numbers are out, and prices are up 6.4% from a year ago. This, coupled with an increase in wages compared to last year, may have some economists concerned about a possible wage spiral.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Apparently the no-take-backs rule doesn't always apply when it comes to buying a car. Today on the show, how and why some dealerships can take back your car even after you've driven off the lot.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org

It's indicators of the week, when we break down our favorite economic headlines! This one's for all the flavor dust lovers out there.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Gautam Adani is no longer Asia's richest man. Since American firm Hindenburg Research released a scathing report last month alleging widespread fraud, market manipulation and corruption, the head of India's Adani Group has lost billions. What does this all mean for India's economy?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Low-income countries are falling behind on their debt payments. Countries like Zambia, Chad and Sri Lanka have already defaulted, and others could be on the brink. Today, we examine the escalating debt crisis in the global economy and how the International Monetary Fund says it's going to help.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Open markets together with free and fair elections have long been the American ideal. But, in his new book, Financial Times chief economics commentator Martin Wolf argues this is a fragile marriage that is spinning towards divorce.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

It's another Indicator Quiz episode! We bring a listener onto the show and test their knowledge on inflation.Are you interested in being a contestant on our next Indicator Quiz? Just email us your name and phone number at indicator@npr.org and put "Indicator Quiz" in the subject line. We'll pick one person at random. Just one entry please. You have until the end of the day, Monday (02/13), to enter.

The U.S. economy is red hot, adding 517,000 jobs in January. Unemployment is at its lowest rate in more than 50 years. So why are there so many jobs when there's talk about a possible recession?One idea that's been talked about is labor hoarding, where employers hold onto more staff than they need. That's because the costs of rehiring are so high.We find that the answer is more complex — and maybe a little more optimistic as well.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

History remembers Arthur Burns as the Fed chair who let inflation run rampant. That's precisely the outcome that current Fed chair Jerome Powell wants to avoid. Today, we look back at the '70s to find out what went wrong.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

A Fed vice president gets a new pair of shoes. Does that mean supply chains are fixed? For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Chinese citizens are once again allowed to travel internationally and the global tourism industry is ready to welcome them with open arms. Why? Chinese tourism has meant big money in the past. In 2019, Chinese travelers spent a fifth of all tourist dollars. But a full rebound in Chinese tourism might be a ways off. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Advancements in artificial intelligence are making replicating the work of artists much easier. Some artists are arguing that AI art generators have been breaking the law to do this. Today, we talk to an artist whose paintings are at the center of a class action.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Tips, eggs and whisky...it's a food edition of Indicators of the Week! We talk egg-spensive food costs and why at least one whisky drinker is upset with the maker of Fireball. For more economics content, subscribe to Planet Money's weekly newsletter.

Forget extraordinary measures. Today we're going full extra extraordinary. How a trillion-dollar platinum coin could get the country around the debt ceiling limit. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The U.S. reached its debt ceiling last week, and some lawmakers say they won't raise it unless there are also cuts to balance the budget. The problem? That would mean 25% reductions everywhere.For more economics content, subscribe to Planet Money's weekly newsletter.

One of the world's biggest banks acquires a promising tech company, and things go very, very wrong. It's a flashy tech startup story with some surprisingly low-tech twists and a web of alleged lies.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Prices for shipping carriers have gone back down to 2019 price levels after record highs during the pandemic. So what does this mean for consumers and businesses who rely on international trade? For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What's up with China's GDP, what's down with China's population numbers, and what Marvel's return tells us. Indicators from China to bring in the Lunar New Year. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org

The debt ceiling approaches. A congressional standoff ensues. It wasn't always this way. So where did the debt ceiling come from? And how do other countries control their debt?This episode originally came out in October 2021.

A chatbot that can do your homework for you? Sounds like every student's dream. But one college senior is building an app to call out the fakes. For more HUMAN WRITTEN content like this, subscribe to Planet Money's weekly newsletter.

Today, a conversation with Mary Daly, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. Her family faced the pain of high prices and a turbulent economy decades ago, so she dropped out of high school to earn money. That experience, she says, helps guide her today, as the Fed tries to bring down inflation without sparking a recession.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

We comb through the surveys, polls, and reports so you don't have to! Three caught our attention for Indicators of the Week: one asking CEOs on whether we're headed for a recession, another on the economic challenges facing rural communities, and a report offering further evidence on the high audit rates of low-income workers.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The Federal Reserve has a dual mandate: keeping prices stable (and inflation low) and promoting "maximum employment." But sometimes, as the Fed attacks one goal, it can potentially hurt the other. It's a dueling dual mandate. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What happens if someone can't perform their job in the same way because of pregnancy? Until now, they could be sent home without pay – essentially lose their job. But a new law aims to change that, by requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant people. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

In 2016, the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union. More than 6 years later, a majority of voters are feeling some buyer's remorse. Today, we cover what's changed since Brexit. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Many sectors of the American economy depend on foreign nationals holding H-1B work visas for valuable skilled labor. But if a H-1B visa holder gets laid off, they're on their own.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Apprenticeships: not just for medieval guilds, but also useful in today's tight labor market! More employers in fields such as healthcare are turning to apprenticeship programs to train new hires for critical roles.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The average labor strike lasts just over 40 days, but a union of coal miners in Alabama has been on strike for over a year and a half. Protesting for that long requires help, both from the community and the economy.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Dear listeners: You had questions, and we have answers! Today, we're digging into airline fares, buying in bulk at the supermarket and the Fed's wacky (?) district boundaries. It's a listener questions episode!For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

This episode originally came out in January 2022. We're back with a new episode tomorrow!It's a new year, and many people are excited for their fresh starts. But, it's no secret that following through with New Year's resolutions can be challenging. Today on the show, behavioral economist Katy Milkman shares her tips on how you can follow through.

This week, we're sharing some of our favorite Indicator episodes from 2022! Today, we hear one of our most downloaded from the year. This episode originally came out in August.Who your friends are may be the key to your economic success story. In a groundbreaking study by Harvard researchers, find out why cross-class friendships may be the key ingredient to the American Dream.

This week, we're sharing some of our favorite Indicator episodes from 2022! Today, we hear one of Darian's favorite episodes. It originally came out in August.Today on the show, why colleges and high school Advanced Placement Macroeconomics classes had to rip out old textbook pages and write a new chapter.

This week, we're sharing some of our favorite Indicator episodes from 2022! Today, we hear one of Adrian's favorite episodes. It originally came out in September."Gamification" as we know it has become increasingly common since the late 2000s. And proponents say adding game-like features to non-game activities — especially boring ones — can make us healthier, happier, and more productive. But Adrian Hon, who has made a career out of 'gamifying' mundane activities like jogging, says the trend has gone awry. Today on the show, Adrian argues that companies are using gamification to confuse, manipulate, or coerce people into doing things they wouldn't have done otherwise.

This week, we're sharing some of our favorite Indicator episodes from 2022! Today, we hear one of Wailin's favorite episodes. It originally came out in September.Shrinkflation, yeet, supply chain, unbanked. What do these terms have in common? They're some of Merriam-Webster's newest dictionary entries!

We love a good competition, so we brought on two Planet Money hosts for a special edition of indicators of the year. Who will take home the title of the indicator that's defined this year? You decide.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Most people assume that when the Fed says a two percent inflation target is best for the economy, they're correct. But that number is more arbitrary than it seems, and some economists are pushing back.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

When the Fed hikes interest rates, the interest rate on your savings account usually follows in step. But recently, that logic hasn't held up. We ask an economist and a community banker why.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The U.S. economy does a bad job of serving the Latino population. Today, we hear from a researcher about why changing that is a win-win, and from one entrepreneur who took matters into her own hands.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Residential construction is one of the few industries that's gotten less productive over time. Modular housing, or building homes in factories to be assembled onsite, offers a solution.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The sequel to Avatar has been hyped up for over a decade, but Covid outbreaks in China threaten its box office success. And the World Cup champion will have more than glory to celebrate — its GDP should rise, too.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Venture capital investors pour money into startups in hopes of landing a unicorn—a $1 billion company. But what happens to the companies that don't reach that status?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Way back in January, when the economy was in a very different place, we picked three indicators to watch. Almost 12 months later, we're seeing how they fared.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Consumers' and businesses' inflation expectations usually stay safely anchored at the Fed's two percent target. But recently, that anchor has been slipping. It's one of the reasons inflation has risen.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Since World War II, the United States has prided itself on being a global leader in technological innovation. But shepherding those innovations from the lab to the masses has proven to be a sticking point.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Should we be worried about a recession? New polling shows that auto dealers certainly are. But leftover pandemic stimulus money is one of the biggest buffers holding one off.2022 is almost over and we want to know what your favorite Indicator episode of the year is ... Email us at indicator@npr.org and put "favorite Indicator" in the subject line. We'll reveal some of them at the end of the month!

The most recent Beige Book featured a little of everything — economic anecdotes from around the country, some positive, some not so good. But one Fed branch's contribution stood about above the rest.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

In part two of our ESG series, we speak with two insiders who have been involved with ESG since before it was cool. To them, it's come a long way — and is now mainstream enough to have a real impact.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

ESG investing claims to pursue both profits and morals at once. But is it really the future of finance, or just a PR sham? In part one of our series on the topic, a former ESG guy argues the latter.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Technical analysis, or finding patterns in stock charts to predict future price movements, is like cloud watching: You can see pretty much anything if you squint hard enough. Even a vomiting camel.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

This jobs Friday, we look to the tech sector, where companies are laying off thousands of workers in a rapid reversal of their pandemic-era hiring boom. What effects could tech layoffs have on the broader economy?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Water utilities in the United States could gain from economies of scale: localized infrastructure can be inefficient and lead to outages in places like Jackson, Miss. But in practice, it's complicated.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Elon Musk bought Twitter for $44 billion, but almost a third of it was in loans—and Twitter's on the hook to pay them back. This strategy, popular in the '80s, is called a leveraged buyout.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

NYU professor Scott Galloway thinks America is drifting — away from investing in a strong middle class, and away from prosperity for all. Today on the show, he brings us the indicators that explain why.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Indicator fans and trivia fanatics, this one's for you. In our first ever Indicator Quiz episode, we invite a listener onto the show and test their knowledge on crypto and GDP.Are you interested in being a contestant on our next "Indicator Quiz"? Just email us your name and phone number at indicator@npr.org and put "Indicator Quiz" in the subject line. We'll pick one person at random. Just one entry please. You have until the end of the day, Monday (12/05), to enter.

Thanksgiving isn't immune from inflation — an annual survey recently found that a holiday meal for four is 20 percent more expensive than it was last year. We bring the Indicator team around the dinner table for a very nerdy Thanksgiving. Indicator listeners — as the end of the year approaches, we want YOUR feedback! What were your favorite shows of 2022? Are there any stories from the past year you'd like an update on? Let us know by emailing indicator@npr.org or commenting on social media!

Doing more by working less sounds like an oxymoron, but a slew of recent studies show that switching to a four-day workweek is linked with greater health, happiness and productivity for workers.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

For most people, buying scalped tickets may be the only way to see Taylor Swift's Eras tour. Thanks, Ticketmaster. But economically speaking, the resale market is more complicated than it seems.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

For this week's series finale, we explain Indonesia's climate deal, why nobody came #1 in the CCPI's climate rankings and whether it's possible to grow an economy without increasing carbon emissions.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What if we could engineer a path towards solving the climate crisis...with monetary policy? Kim Stanley Robinson's novel The Ministry for the Future considers this question, and the idea is catching on in real life too. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Extreme heat takes a toll on workers. From heatstroke to an increased likelihood of workplace accidents, protecting employees from heat illness is a growing priority for state legislatures. We talk to an economist about how higher safety standards help businesses too.

Low- and middle-income countries are facing the worst consequences of the climate crisis, and rising global interest rates are making it harder to repay their debts. What if there was a way to solve both problems at once?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

CATL is a hugely important company that a lot of people probably haven't heard of. It's grown from nothing to become the world's largest EV battery supplier — with some strong help from the Chinese government along the way. This story of how EV batteries became cheap kicks off The Indicator's week on the climate crisis — how markets, government and businesses can deal with growing emissions.

Crypto? Not doing well right now. But stocks? With elections soon to be behind us, history says they should be on the rise. This week's indicators explain the story behind FTX's bankruptcy and why markets love midterms.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

We all need a little hedonism in our lives sometimes. A spa day, a good meal ... and modeling to account for quality change? Today, how economists model pleasure – and what it means for inflation data.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Let's face it: buying a new car sucks. From the hidden dealership fees to the reams of paperwork, it just seems harder than it should be. Well, economically speaking, it is – and today, we explain why.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

As the COP27 climate conference begins, a tricky economic question is on the table: should wealthy nations compensate their lower-income neighbors who suffer most from the climate crisis? And how?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The labor union playbook just doesn't work like it used to. While unions enjoy the spotlight right now, they've faced years of declines. So advocates are deploying what one might call a grungier tactic: alt labor.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The U.S. economy added 261,000 jobs in October, meaning there are still about two jobs available for each unemployed person. Could expanding the H2-B visa program for temporary foreign workers help America's tight labor market?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Rare earth metals are everywhere – in cars, drones, the device you're listening on right now — and China has the market cornered. But a new laboratory breakthrough could level the playing field.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Today the Fed raised interest rates to just under 4%. The Taylor Rule says this should have happened a year ago. We talk to John Taylor about letting a formula do the work instead.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Your smartphone is pretty bad at keeping secrets – if it keeps track of your location, someone (or some app) almost definitely knows where you are. Today, the murky market for personal location data.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Spirit Halloween is known for its unique business model. On Halloween, we bring you an episode of It's Been A Minute about why this pop-up scheme is such a hit.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

How did energy-starved Europe end up with too much natural gas? New GDP numbers look strong, but how is the economy really doing? And is Meta betting too big on the metaverse? This week's indicators explain.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What's in a name? New research shows that for some people, employment prospects could be on the line. We hear from two economists who looked at hundreds of econ Ph.D. students to find out if the ones with harder-to-pronounce names were hurt in the job market.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but it's keeping the Fed up at night. For this month's Beigie Awards, we look at how high energy prices and a strong dollar are disrupting the global apple market.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Labor productivity, historically the engine of American economic supremacy, is faltering. And even in a tight labor market, some workers are feeling less valued by their employers than ever before. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Xi Jinping was reappointed as China's leader over the weekend. He faces a housing market crisis that could put China's overall economy at risk.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Turkish interest rates, U.K. bond yields, Chinese GDP data (or lack thereof?) ... Our indicators this week bring us around the globe in just 10 minutes. Strap on those seatbelts!For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The Liz Truss era is over. Headlines blame her budget fiasco, but we talk through the deeper story: slowing economic productivity in the UK. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

A week before the Communist Party of China's 20th congress kicked off, the US government announced comprehensive new rules blocking China's access to advanced semiconductor chips. It's a sign the Biden Administration can't disentangle security concerns from trade with China. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Juneau, Alaska doesn't have enough veterinarians. Nate Hegyi, host of the podcast Outside/In from member station NHPR, brings us there to show how the pandemic has reshaped animal healthcare work in Alaska and across the nation.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Every time you swipe a credit card, you produce data—and now, a new tool could make it easier for the financial industry to identify suspicious gun purchases. But will companies want to use it?For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

It's been a busy week for the economy: our key indicators cover key topics related to social security increases, rent and its relationship with recent CPI data, and a looming rail strike. All aboard!For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Gas prices have been dropping, but production cuts from OPEC+ and new inflation data bring back memories of oil shocks of the 1970s. However, the U.S. economy is better prepared now than it was then.

The IMF has been in the news for its criticism of the UK government's recent budget. But what exactly is the organization, and how does it fulfill its mission to achieve global economic prosperity?

Former Fed chair Ben Bernanke and two colleagues were awarded an economics Nobel for research on the role banks play in financial crises — research that's shaped the global financial system.

Social Security Disability Insurance helps support millions of Americans, but it's a slow-moving program that rejects most people who apply. This Jobs Friday: The 10 million working-age people who are neither working nor seeking a job — and they're living with a disability. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Ever had a pet turtle? Try a pet bond! They're a reliable addition to your 401k that can be valuable even when stocks are down. We discuss why bonds belong in your terrarium (or retirement plan).For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

How does sorority rush relate to organ donations, doctors, and New York high schools? Put on your best pearls because we're market matching with a Nobel Prize economist today. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What will rebuilding Ukraine look like after the war with Russia ends? No one knows, but some are taking a page out of the history textbook for inspiration. Perhaps, a Marshall Plan 2.0 for Ukraine. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

When confronted with racial categories, which box do you tick? For Asian Americans, the grouping called AAPI – that's Asian American and Pacific Islander – is a strangely broad and ambiguous category. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Sound the alarms because Britain's financial markets are in turmoil. That, plus the upticking 'fear gauge,' and Porsche's vrooming public debut on indicators of the week. Markets edition. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What happens when a country's foreign reserves are stored in another country, and then part of that is run by a third? No, it's not the start of a bad joke. It's the story of Afghanistan, the U.S., and Switzerland. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

According to the U.S Dollar Index, the U.S Dollar reached a twenty year peak. Today, we're revisiting a classic episode to ask: What exactly are the pros and cons to U.S dollar dominance? For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What's cooking in the executive suite? Today, delve deep into the world of corporate investigations. Learn how checking the facts can avoid some seriously salacious scandals. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Shrinkflation, yeet, supply chain, unbanked. What do these terms have in common? They're some of Merriam-Webster's newest dictionary entries! For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

When interest rates are on the up and up, the housing market tends to slide down and down. That, plus the declining value of the Japanese yen, and updates about the global supply chain on indicators of the week. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

"Gamification" as we know it has become increasingly common since the late 2000s. And proponents say adding game-like features to non-game activities — especially boring ones — can make us healthier, happier, and more productive. But Adrian Hon, who has made a career out of 'gamifying' mundane activities like jogging, says the trend has gone awry. Today on the show, Adrian argues that companies are using gamification to confuse, manipulate, or coerce people into doing things they wouldn't have done otherwise. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

When Knut the polar bear was rejected by his mother at the Berlin Zoo, a debate caught fire over whether it was more humane to keep him alive or euthanize him. Today, as the Fed raises interest rates again, another polar bear is in danger: The economy. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Surf's up with the IRS! Patagonia's founder Yvon Chouinard recently gave his company and billionaire status away. But how he did so entails a complex tale of trusts, exemptions and a whole lot of taxes. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

According to a Forbes report, half of all Bitcoin trades are fake. Today, we unveil crypto's cryptic facade by diving deep into a classic concept: Wash trading. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Hands up! A bank heist with a toy gun exposes the chaos in Lebanon's financial system. That, plus declining child poverty rates, and Ethereum's "Merge" on indicators of the week. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

The September Beige Book is an emotional roller coaster. We crown the Federal Reserve bank who gave us the funniest and most poignant anecdotes about the economy. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

How would you like your burger? With a side of higher wages? Today on the menu, California's FAST Recovery Act is rethinking labor relations for the fast food industry. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Argentines party hard in the bustling bars of Buenos Aires, despite the stubborn cloud of inflation. Across the pond, German companies switch gears in response to high gas prices, as Russia shuts off its supply. Today on the show, the push and pull of inflation. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

From the aftermath of World War II to the coronavirus pandemic, Queen Elizabeth has lived through it all. But after her death, what happens to the future of the royal family... and its fortune? Today on the show, we're revisiting our classic episode to ask: Can "The Firm" really survive without its CEO? For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Crank up that AC because a record-breaking heat wave is sweeping through the American West. That, plus workplace surveys, and Apple's newest drop on indicators of the week. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

What happens to local government projects when the big banks that back them leave the state? A Texas-sized experiment in values-based financing.For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Welcome to the Global Growth Gym, where countries are working out their economies. Over in the corner, the U.S. is standing there on a weight scale, just a tad confused... For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

From Sacramento to San Diego, the state of California is a tryhard when it comes to regulations. Today, we're singing about how the nation's strictest standards affect economies across state lines.

Headaches, fatigue, trouble breathing...the lingering health effects of COVID-19 continue to haunt millions of Americans, and the labor market, too.

A new paper in the Journal of Cultural Economics says happy songs are more popular during a recession. So we thought we'd have a little fun on today's show. Armed with a new soundtrack, what can we learn about past recessions?

Ever thought of spicing up your 401k with crypto? Well, we leave it up for the Prudent Man to decide. On today's episode, learn about how wonky pension regulations from the '70s opened a new era of riskier investments.

At first glance, mobile home ownership seems like the happy medium between renting and buying a house. But what happens when a tug-of-war ensues between the landlords and the residents? For the full read, click here.

Biden is canceling student loans for millions of Americans. Love it or hate it, one thing is for sure – many economists from the left and the right think that this plan is a not-so-good idea...

Canceled flights are the worst. So is inefficient healthcare and unaffordable college tuition. Today on the show, three indicators about new solutions to address age-old problems.

We learn about the Chinese government's global financing boom by zooming in on one country where controversy surrounding Chinese money is smoldering hot. We're going to the Pacific: The Solomon Islands.

The verdict is in: the current Supreme Court is the most business-friendly SCOTUS of the past century, according to a new study. But why the lean towards corporate?

China owns a LOT of Benjamins, greenbacks, whatever you like to call it, in the form of US treasury bonds. But it's been cutting back on some of those securities recently. So what would happen if Beijing decides to sell off all its holding of American debt, and is that the plan?

Ah, 2018, a good year in music. Don't agree? Just check out our playlist. It's also when Spotify rocked-and-rolled the finance world with its rebellious take on going public.

From sea to shining sea, rivers in the United States are drying up, including the Colorado River. For indicators of the week, three environmental indicators about the state of Mother Nature.

Long gone are the days of hauling sixty books home from the local library. With eBooks, the worlds of Fahrenheit 451 to Harry Potter are at your fingertips with just a tap. But what's the price behind the click?

Even the sheep are complaining. A severe drought is drying Europe to its limits, and the effects are widespread. From crops to shipping energy, what are the economic consequences?

Peer into the crystal ball with Kalshi.com. Will inflation stay high? Will daylight saving time become permanent? Place your bets.

Today on the show, why colleges and high school Advanced Placement Macroeconomics classes had to rip out old textbook pages and write a new chapter.

The economy cooled off a bit, but inflation is still really, really high. But, not all goods and services respond the same to a high inflation environment. Today on the show, we're talking about sticky prices, bonds, and that old chestnut, transitory inflation.

The Inflation Reduction Act has it all, from fighting climate change to cutting drug prices. But today, we're zooming in on one aspect of the bill. The changes to corporate taxes.

Not all recessions are created equal. Some look like Vs, while others look like Ks. But the scariest one of all is the L-shaped recession. Travel back to Japan's "Lost Decade" with us to understand why.

The cost of pharmaceuticals has been rising for years, well before inflation became the big economic talking point. Today on the show, why some policymakers suspect an obscure middleman is partly to blame.

Who your friends are may be the key to your economic success story. In a groundbreaking study by Harvard researchers, find out why cross-class friendships may be the key ingredient to the American Dream.

Baristas and warehouse workers unite! After decades of decline, we're hearing a lot about new unions starting around the country. But union membership actually declined last year. We look at what's really happening.

We crunched the numbers (on Excel of course), and the results are in. There's not enough Certified Public Accountants right now. Can the world of finance come up with a solution to address this issue?

More than three-quarters of adults in the United States say they've experienced extreme weather in the last five years, according to a nationwide survey conducted by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. And events like floods, wildfires and hurricanes are emptying bank accounts — especially when insurance doesn't cover the damage. Today on The Indicator, we bring you an episode of Short Wave, NPR's daily science podcast.

After two long years, the results seem to be in. Which countries were the 'Pandemic MVPs,' the countries most resilient to COVID-19? And more importantly, what was the secret to their success?

The world runs on semiconductors. From cameras to cars, tiny chips power most electronic devices. So why do we have such a shortage of them?

We assess the Inflation Reduction Act: Will there be unintended consequences from taking on Big Pharma? Will electric vehicles become cheap? And does the tax department need more money?

Ah, GDP, the titan of all economic indicators. But are we breaking it down correctly? Today, we're remixing GDP to evaluate the true health of an economy.

Can you feel the inflation emanating from the milk aisle? Today on The Indicator, we explore how food prices – and who does the grocery shopping – affect how we think about inflation. Oh and don't forget your grocery list, because we're headed to the supermarket too.

When Mario Draghi saved the euro with a 2012 speech, the world was in awe. Then he was called in to lead Italy's six motley political parties through the pandemic, and turn around Italy's economy.

Love is sharing a password, but maybe not anymore. With streaming services cracking down on account sharing, this got The Indicator team wondering, what exactly is the definition of a household?

The sweltering heat has us wondering, how exactly are people responding to climate change? Today on The Indicator, we're going green with three environmental indicators. Stay tuned for a sliver of hope at the end.

When in doubt, count on the price of metals like copper and gold to predict the economy. But what magical forces are driving prices in the metal market down?

Two years ago, the pandemic haunted New York City. But now the Big Apple is back in full swing, with tourists and bodegas galore. To celebrate the return to normal, join us for the Beigie Awards, live from Times Square!

For some student athletes, taco discounts and even Lamborghini partnerships are becoming a reality. That's because last summer , the NCAA changed a decades-old precedence that banned college sports stars from pursuing lucrative brand deals. How has that decision changed the game a year on?

Before, after, and during college, the cards are still stacked against Black students. Today, we look at how that reality translates into Black borrowers being more likely to default on their student loans.

On Earth and in space, economics affects us wherever we go. Today, we're looking at three indicators: The yen, copper prices, and NASA's James Webb telescope. Quite an otherworldly combination!

Seems like the British people might have to cut down on their afternoon tea... food prices in the UK are going through the roof, and wages are stagnating. Can the new Prime Minister handle the heat?

As countries crank up their interest rates to fight inflation, the whispers of a reverse currency war are getting louder. But is this cause for concern or just political posturing?

Amazon Prime Day, the unofficial holiday of the e-commerce enthusiast, is here. But for third-party-sellers, today might not be a day for celebration.

A new alternative to federal court for copyright holders may provide an inexpensive route towards justice for small businesses. But is cheaper, better? How well will it work?

Gen Zers, it's time to put the TikTok away and revamp those cover letters. With murmurs of an upcoming recession, what does this mean for the newest entrants into the labor market?

Why is the Russian ruble so strong right now? Despite heavy sanctions, the Russian government has a special trick – a serum, if you will – up their sleeves.

What are the economic consequences of being denied an abortion? In a recent study, an economist looked for the answer in a pile of credit data. And the results surprised even her. The deadline to apply for an internship to Planet Money and The Indicator for fall through winter is extended to Sunday, July 17th. Come work with us! Go to npr.org/internships to apply.

Amid daunting gas prices, President Biden's proposed federal gas tax holiday sounds like a sweet relief. But the economics behind this tax break reveals the push and pull between consumers and oil companies, and an unexpected outcome.

After the G7 talks, we're turning our attention back to Russia. But in typical The Indicator fashion, we're zooming in on three global commodities affected by the ongoing war: gold, oil, and wheat. Planet Money and The Indicator are looking for our intern for fall through winter. Come work with us! We would love to have you. And it's paid! Go to npr.org/internships to apply. Deadline is Sunday, July 10th.

Have you ever wondered where the terms 'bull' and 'bear' markets originated from? Today on the show, we're journeying back to the 1700s to find out how a particular financial event popularized these animal terms.

On a scale of 1 to 10, how effective are the sanctions on Russia? Today on the show, we're grading the hodgepodge of sanctions aimed at persuading Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukraine.

Black consumers are more likely to own crypto than white consumers and crypto enthusiasts laud the crypto world as a driver for racial equity. In today's show we explore that premise. If you're interested in learning more, listen to the episode and check out Terri Bradford's article on Black crypto ownership.

From Jimmy Fallon to Reese Witherspoon, why are so many celebrities promoting crypto? We untangle the web of connections between Hollywood A-listers, Bored Apes, and one influential talent agency, with journalist Max Read. He wrote about this in his Substack newsletter, Read Max.

This Friday, we're looking at fast-food companies who are still hanging on in Russia. Juul getting banned. And as a cherry on top, THE Ohio State University deciding to patent you guessed it, "the."

The crypto market has taken a beating lately, and even though Bitcoin and other crypto assets are risky, they're becoming more mainstream. How concerned do we need to be about the recent crypto collapse?

What took the Fed so long to address high inflation? Today on the show, we're exploring six reasons behind the Fed's hesitancy to hike interest rates, according to Bill Nelson, who spent two decades working for the Federal Reserve. For more background, check out our episode last week, Jerome Powell's ghosts.

Everyone's a stock trader these days. With a press of a button, companies like Robinhood allow everyday people to buy and sell shares with no fee. But, this practice is just a tad bit controversial.

With rising interest rates, this economy has got us scratching our heads. To rent, or not to rent? To borrow money, or not to borrow? To qualify for a mortgage...or maybe not. Maybe our three indicators on the housing market will give clues. Hey, we're off for Juneteenth but The Indicator will be back on Tuesday!

School's out, and so are pandemic-era relief measures for families with children. But when universal free lunches and expanded child tax credits roll to a halt, what are the consequences? Take NPR's annual podcast survey – especially if you're a new listener! It's short, anonymous, and will help us serve you better!

The Fed hiked interest rates by 0.75 percentage points. But why the sudden jump now? Why not earlier? To understand the psyche of the Fed and its chair, Jerome Powell, we're turning back the clock to the 2013 Taper Tantrum, and a 2019 road trip.

3... 2... 1... GONE? Already? The Telfar Shopping Bag's been considered the "it" bag the last few years, if you can get your hands on one. It's also making big fashion statements by redefining luxury and accessibility in the fashion world.

For the corporate engagement of Elon Musk and Twitter, the road to the chapel has been unusually rocky. So how are these deals supposed to go, anyway?

Welcome to the macroeconomic bar fight. Today, fists are being thrown over the causes of high inflation. But off to the corner stands John Cochrane, an economist with a core explanation for rising prices: government borrowing and spending. Check out some of our earlier episodes on inflation: - Why some economists last year were concerned about low interest rates and high government borrowing and spending - Why the term 'transitory' inflation was banned by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta as consumers spent and spent in 2021 - How the war in Ukraine raises prices around the world, including food prices, and a look at grain exports stuck in the country - Whether corporate greed is to blame for inflation

June. School's out, the sun is shining and most importantly, the Beige Book is here again! Among the Federal Reserve Banks, which gave the best anecdote about how the economy is doing?

For decades, antitrust agencies focused on the harm to consumers. But lately, the federal government has started paying more attention to anticompetitive behavior when it comes to workers. Could this be a major turning point for antitrust enforcement? For more on monopsony, check out the paper referenced in the show: Monopsony in Labor Markets: A Meta-Analysis.Take NPR's annual podcast survey – especially if you're a new listener! It's short, anonymous, and will help us serve you better!

What happens to the flow of venture capital when the market drops? We look at each player – from limited partners to venture capitalists to startups – and the choices they face when turbulent times are ahead.

Ah, college... the classes, the parties, the debt. Is it still worth it? While most schools are seeing their enrollment decline, 'elite' schools are receiving a jump in applications.Take NPR's annual podcast survey – especially if you're a new listener! It's short, anonymous, and will help us serve you better!

The United States added 390,000 jobs in May. Today, we go behind the scenes to find the surprisingly delightful secrets to how the Bureau of Labor Statistics collects that number.

Housing prices all over the country are rising at historic rates. Some are concerned about a housing bubble and crash like the one in 2008. So what's happening?

Russia's blockade of Ukraine's seaports have stopped 20 million tons of grain from getting exported. Today, how Ukraine is trying to get its trapped grain to countries that rely on these crucial food supplies.

The toy giant, Hasbro, is set for a contentious proxy vote in early June. An activist investor argues the publicly traded company is neglecting its most profitable asset. Today, how a proxy battle works and what it means for Hasbro.

After the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, some investors are making bets on gun-related stocks while others are trying to avoid them altogether.

The U.S. Dollar has gotten a lot stronger in recent months compared with other currencies. Today, we dive into the economics of foreign exchange and the pros and cons of dollar dominance.

Matching talent with opportunity is great for economic growth. But when it comes to Identifying talent, we have a lot to learn according to economist Tyler Cowen. He joins the show today to talk about innovative strategies for finding under the radar talent.

Companies with more top female execs are more likely to please customers, be socially responsible, and are more profitable. But we don't know why. Today we talk to Corinne Post, who thinks she's solved the mystery.

Baby formula is in short supply after a voluntary February recall by the manufacturer, Abbott. Today, we explain how the government helped shape the U.S. formula market, and why that structure led to a devastating shortage.

The economy is in a weird place right now. It seems like every day there are new numbers coming out that say economic conditions are either great or poor. Today, we bring you some indicators this week — factory output, credit card defaults and housing — and bring some clarity to the tumult.

With the Supreme Court expected to overturn its landmark decision on abortion rights, more than 150 economists submitted a brief with the court saying there will be major consequences if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Today on the show: How the field of causal inference helps economists decipher the effects abortion policy has had on people's lives during the past half century, and what the likely effects will be if Roe is overturned.

Last year, we analyzed whether or not the Simpson family's lifestyle was attainable for the middle class. A writer on the show listened to that Indicator, and decided to answer that question with an episode of their own. Today, we bring you a sneak preview of their take on America's shrinking middle class.

The United States has hit a million recorded deaths from COVID-19, a likely undercount. Today, how John Burn-Murdoch from the Financial Times tracks COVID-19, and what the true death toll really is.

Are the skills from dealing drugs transferable to the world of legal entrepreneurship? We review the evidence and meet Coss Marte, a former drug dealer who built a successful fitness routine business after a long time in prison.

On today's edition of Indicators of the Week, we bring you the top numbers to know in the stock market, cryptocurrency, and the world's second most valuable company.

Bill Gross is a retired investor known for creating and dominating the bond market. But what exactly made him so successful? Today, we talk to Aaron Brown, who created a mock portfolio to unpack the success of the Bond King.

We often talk about inflation as a bad thing. But for countries in a lot of debt, inflation has an upside. But can a country try to inflate its way out of debt?

America is getting older which is bad news for the state of the labor market. Today, we learn how lower fertility rates and retiring seniors are contributing to shortages in the labor force.

The European Union is poised to pass its latest big tech legislation package. The Digital Services Act could reshape how we interact with big online platforms. Today, we go through some of the highlights of the regulation.

Unemployment is low and job listings are at a record high: This shows up in a chart called the Beveridge curve. What's driving this? We talk to a former brewery manager to find out.

Prices for cooking oil have spiked around the world. You can point to drought and, more recently, the war in Ukraine for reasons why. But palm oil prices were on the rise before those production shocks. Today, we look into the palm oil price mystery.

To try and slow inflation, the Federal Reserve is going beyond its typical tool of raising interest rates, and adopting a policy of "quantitative tightening." So ... what is that, exactly?

Savings bonds are known for their low yields and relative safety. However, the recent inflation spike is creating a heightened demand for the Series I Bond. Today, we learn the mechanics of the I Bond and why it might be the hottest investment of 2022.

The trucking industry saw a boom in the early months of the pandemic as consumer demand for goods surged. This caused a key trucking indicator known as the spot market rate to hit historic highs. Today, we learn what the recent decline in the spot rate could mean for the economy.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis released their quarterly gross domestic product report this week. It showed GDP shrank at an annualized rate of 1.4%. Not good. But there's a mix of stories in the details. We explain with the help of a bit of music.

Global food prices were rising even before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but the war in Eastern Europe is putting more pressure on supply. Today, the global impact of rising food prices and how countries are attempting to make up for missing supply.

Shanghai is enduring a strict COVID lockdown that has left many without many basic necessities, including food. So ordinary people have banded together to build their own group-buying and barter economy.

A series of policy missteps combined with a global pandemic is putting heavy economic pressure on Sri Lanka. Today, the events that led to surging prices, power outages and violent protests in the island nation.

The pandemic crushed the airline industry, causing a wave of layoffs. While increased consumer demand in 2022 has analysts forecasting a profitable year for the major airlines, lingering issues are likely to make summertime travel more expensive.

Media and entertainment companies had a turbulent week, which made us want to cover a few of them for Indicators of the Week! Today, indicators for Netflix, Twitter, and Disney we think should be on your radar. Come see Planet Money Live in NYC on May 10th! One night only. Tickets on sale here.

Over the past year China has enforced strict regulations on its tech platforms. But this crackdown has sparked such instability in financial markets that the Chinese government appears to be having second thoughts. | Come see Planet Money Live in NYC on May 10th! One night only. Tickets on sale here.

Russia is on the verge of doing something it hasn't done since 1918: Default on its foreign debt. Today, we explore what's happening, and why Russia and its creditors may be headed for a long, messy legal battle.

In the wake of the war in Ukraine, American companies are preparing themselves for potential Russian cyber attacks. Many of them will need to rely on an insurance system that has historically looked to avoid paying out in times of war or crisis. Today, why the threat of cyber warfare has the insurance industry scrambling.

A policy designed to draw investment to economically distressed communities has clearly benefited wealthy investors in the form of tax breaks. But the benefit to the communities is less clear.

The development of the Moderna vaccine was the culmination of decades of scientific research. This research was able to flourish thanks in large part to Flagship Pioneering and its founder, Noubar Afeyan. Today, the innovative way Flagship created one of the most successful COVID-19 vaccine makers in the world.

Part of the yield curve has been inverting. This caused panic because the yield curve has a stunning track record at predicting recessions. But wait! A familiar friend helped us calm down.

Low-income households spend a disproportionate amount of their income on food and as inflation continues to spike, especially when it comes to food prices, these families are particularly vulnerable. However, research looking at how the Bureau of Labor Statistics calculates the consumer price index, indicates the CPI may be failing to show the extent of that harm. Today, why the CPI may be underestimating higher prices in the supermarket for low-income Americans.

Elon Musk is not shy about the changes he'd like to see with Twitter. So now that he is the largest shareholder in the social media giant, some fear he could become an activist investor.

Inflation is one of the hottest topics in economics. So naturally, it's all we wanted to talk about in this edition of Indicators of the Week!

The pandemic forced the closure of music venues around the country. Owners of many of these businesses believed their existing insurance policies would help them weather the storm. But, as it turns out, many of those policies weren't designed for COVID-19.

America has a goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Without serious changes to lifestyles, that means dramatic investments in green energy. But environmental laws are getting in the way.

The Russian invasion meant Ukraine's central bank had to work to avoid financial collapse. We hear from an economist and a Ukrainian bank CEO about how they're keeping money moving.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is forcing Germany to rethink its reliance on Russian energy, particularly natural gas. And as it looks for solutions, the nation is talking about something economists despise - rationing.

The economic recovery is still hot with a streak of strong jobs reports over the last couple of months. One of the groups benefiting from this strong labor market are teenagers.

Ukraine has been receiving a steady stream of weapons from the United States and NATO for the past several weeks. Like the goods that come to your door, these weapons have to go through a supply chain. Today, we learn the steps.

In the past, war can sometimes boost parts of the economy. After World War 2, the United States emerged as an economic superpower. The same, however, is highly unlikely for Russia in its current war with Ukraine.

Whistleblowers are essential tools for agencies like the SEC in their efforts to root out corporate malfeasance. Jordan Thomas knows this better than anyone, as he helped create the government agency's program.

The census is an important tool for determining where federal funding is most needed. So what happens when those communities most in need are undercounted? Today, we cover the local economics of the census.

The economic pressure on Russia continues to build a month after its Ukraine invasion. How Russia is handling its stock market reopening and how the United States plans to close more sanction loopholes.

The Federal Trade Commission's hammer hit a weight loss app geared towards children earlier this month. What this decision means for businesses, consumers and online privacy.

One of the consequences of stronger remote work culture is the abandonment of office space. These empty buildings have created opportunities for real estate developers to create housing in American cities where residential apartments are expensive and in short supply.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities in the global supply chain, including here in the United States. But when outsourcing failed, one textile manufacturer in Massachusetts came up with a plan.

Although there is no mention of race in the U.S. tax code, tax law professor Dorothy Brown believes race and taxes are closely intertwined.

President Biden quietly signed a $1.5 trillion omnibus spending bill this week. It funds a lot of different programs, but what three are our indicators of the week?

Russia's invasion has forced Ukrainian businesses to mobilize for the broader war effort. How are the people on the ground adjusting and what are they doing to support themselves?

All eyes were on the Federal Reserve today as it hiked interest rates. What does the 0.25% increase mean for people borrowing money? And how exactly does the Federal Reserve raise interest rates?

Governments in the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom and other countries have placed harsh sanctions on Russian oligarchs. But they may have missed the most influential people in Putin's inner circle.

Climate change, farmworker shortages and increasing transportation costs were already driving global food prices higher and higher. What happens when you add war to the mix?

It's another edition of indicators of the week! Today, we take a look at the wide-ranging effects Russia's invasion is having on corporations and commodities.

Some House Democrats continued to blame high inflation on greedy corporations this week. Today, we'll fact-check that claim.

Heavy sanctions on Russia have forced Central Bank of Russia Governor, Elvira Nabiullina, to get creative. What steps is she taking to keep Russia's economy afloat?

A dispute going back to 2013 involving Russia and Ukraine and $3 billion in bonds has revived a discussion about a legal concept called odious debt. What is it and how does the current conflict complicate the case?

Safe-haven assets like U.S. government bonds and gold are seeing heightened interest from investors due to the uncertainty caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. So why are volatile cryptocurrencies also attracting attention?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has finally added American Indian and Alaska Native labor data to its monthly jobs numbers. Why it's important and how the Minneapolis Fed proved it was possible.

OPEC produces over half of the world's internationally traded crude oil. How did this organization come about and what does it have to do with the war in Ukraine?

Despite ups and downs, China has become Russia's most important trading partner. And some suspect China may support Russia as it deals with the economic fallout from sanctions imposed due to its invasion of Ukraine. What could that look like?

President Vladimir Putin spent years trying to sanction-proof Russia's economy. With recent sanctions from the West, his Fortress Russia idea is now being put to the test.

Eldercare has been hit extremely hard since the pandemic began. A severe nursing shortage is lowering the availability and quality of care for seniors. What can be done to reverse course?

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has sent markets all over the world into a frenzy. Just how widespread could the economic fallout be?

With Russia's invasion of Ukraine, we break down three economic takeaways from the invasion – the impact on oil prices, the global supply chain, and the strength of the Russian economy.

A New York couple was recently arrested for laundering billions of dollars worth of stolen cryptocurrency assets. If the blockchain is so secure, how were federal officials able to catch them?

Indicators are all around us — but do we really understand these numbers' size and what they mean? Today, a data teacher gives us some tips on how to put these figures into perspective.

The price of coffee beans is surging, the Biden administration wants to reduce the price of hydrogen and the surprising number of unemployed young men with a criminal record.

Oil prices are on the rise, but futures markets see them lower than where they are now. This is known as backwardation. Today, we learn what's behind this phenomenon.

The Academy Award-winning film, Sideways, is often credited with decimating sales for merlot and elevating taste for pinot noir. Some economists tried to prove it.

For much of the pandemic, government aid helped lower the number of personal bankruptcies dramatically. With those measures ending, close observers say a sharp increase is likely.

If sports bettors in the U.S. have a sacred holiday, it might be the Super Bowl.

Our indicators of the week have to do with trade. On one hand, protests against covid restrictions on the Canadian border are blocking trade with America's biggest trading partner. On the other, a historic high for the national trade deficit.

Today, inflation hit a 40-year high of 7.5%. The Federal Reserve is expected to start raising interest rates next month, but how exactly does that affect inflation?

January was a rocky month for many tech companies as earnings reports came in. Paddy Hirsch joins the show to share what's scaring many investors in this correction market.

The 2022 Beijing Olympics are in full swing. But do many of the official sponsors seem a little quiet?

The Mcdonald's Arch Deluxe is one of the most infamous product failures in history. Economist John List helps us understand what happened and how it could've been averted.

The January jobs report exceeded the expectations of many. Will the better-than-expected numbers merit the return of our old friend the airhorn?

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman is a rising star in the world of economics. Today, she joins us to talk about the collection of essays she edited, Black Agenda: Bold Solutions for a Broken System.

Trouble attracting employees has some companies offering free pet care and "No-meeting Wednesdays." One CEO was "liberally begging" for workers.

An increasing number of major musicians are selling their songwriting catalogs for tens – and even hundreds – of millions of dollars. What's going on?

Rent control is one of the most unpopular policies among economists and policy reporters. But current housing shortages have one long-time critic rethinking her position.

The team comes together to showcase what's happened since we last checked on some previous headline-grabbing indicators.

Uber's CEO Travis Kalanick grew the company fast, but oversaw scandal after scandal. One venture capitalist wanted Travis out. Today: The epic tug-of-war between venture capital and founders in tech.

A US District Court just ruled Gruyere cheese can be made outside of the Swiss French border region – including here in the US. Today, what this court battle over a cheese has to do with global trade.

Insys Therapeutics was an opioid startup that made lots of money for its addictive nasal spray. Today, we hear from Evan Hughes, author of the book Hard Sell: Crime and Punishment at an Opioid Startup, on how the company's carelessness led to its ultimate downfall.

Banks make billions on overdraft fees every year. So why are some of them walking away now?

It's a new year so that means it's time to choose our indicators to watch! Listen to find out what we will be tracking in the economy for 2022.

Russia has the United States and its allies worried about a potential invasion of Ukraine. One of the most painful sanctions NATO could impose would cut Russia's economy from the world.

In this frenzied housing market, offering cash gives you a huge advantage. It used to be only wealthy people and investors could do it. But now some lenders will let everyday homebuyers put in a cash offer too.

Microsoft just announced its intention to buy video game developer, Activision Blizzard, for almost $70 billion. This has some people speculating about Microsoft's future metaverse aspirations.

TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, and increasingly, a powerful tool for marketing. Today, we learn why TikTok makes us buy.

Despite being fairly simple items, nails can actually reveal a lot about the greater economy. Today, we talk to economist Dan Sichel about the history of nails and what they can teach us about economic trends.

Inflation reached a 40-year high today of 7%! There's been a storm of debate about an old anti-inflation policy: Price controls. So we dust off the history books and see what happened in World War II.

McDonald's is notorious for frequent malfunctions of its ice cream machine. What's behind those malfunctions and why is the government getting involved?

Disruptive backlogs at west coast ports in the U.S. have caused some shippers to get creative with their routes. Today, we tell you why one vessel took the long route from Shanghai to Cleveland, Ohio.

Unemployment is at 3.9%. Is this full employment? Some Americans aren't so sure. We look at this complex situation through the eyes of someone who has been job hunting for a long time.

In hospitals, it's standard for nurses to work a 12-hour shift. But research shows that may not be such a good idea for patients — or nurses.

For years, Johnson & Johnson has been entangled in lawsuits regarding its talcum based products being linked to causing ovarian cancer. And to save itself from future lawsuits, the company is betting big on a tricky legal move named after a famous dance.

Although there are more warehouses in the U.S. than ever before, these warehouses are running out of space. Today on the show, we go behind the scenes into the warehousing world to understand why warehouses are running out of space.