It’s a rainy Saturday here on the back porch so instead of yard work, how’s about a quick run through of some indicators of note re the current economy? In sum, housing isn’t hurting the way it was, and that’s an important plus. But the usual headwinds remain in place, with a bit of added… Read more
Archive for the ‘Energy’ Category
Talking New New Deal with Mike Grunwald — LIVE!
I was lucky enough to sit down with the author of this important new book about the Recovery Act. I’ll be writing a lot on Grunwald’s book in coming weeks. It’s by far the most careful, balanced look at both the politics and the economics around this widely misunderstood piece of legislation. And there’s a… Read more
Government’s Role in Our Economy and Lives: Your Weekend Reading
I have a remarkable and timely document to share with you, but there’s a condition: you must agree to give it as close a read as you can over the weekend. And if you happen to be a public official, then you must agree to read every word and report back on Monday. Agreed? OK,… Read more
Scattershots from the Road
Quick road trip in progress so just a few scattered impressions from the hotel room, and pre-coffee so I can’t be held accountable. Econowatch: Yesterday’s retail sales numbers were a concern because there’s a negative trend there — see figure — over the last quarter (April, May, June) which corresponds to the slower growth in… Read more
Prices: You’ve Got a Friend…
“When you’re down, and troubled, and you need a helping hand…” Last Friday’s jobs report confirmed a weakening trend in employment growth and an unemployment rate stuck north of 8%. We’re still growing, and most industries outside of the public sector are adding jobs, but too slowly. Other important indicators, most notably real GDP growth,… Read more