The Daily

The Economy Is Booming. Or Is It?

Aug 1, 2019

Ben Casselman, an economy reporter for The New York Times, shares insights on the surprising Federal Reserve interest rate cut amid a booming economy. He explores why the government resorted to measures reminiscent of the 2008 financial crisis, discussing the implications of this move for job markets and manufacturing. The conversation highlights the conflicting signals in the economy, such as low unemployment against trade tensions. Casselman also emphasizes the challenges for lower-income individuals and the uncertainties economists face in predicting future economic conditions.

22:08

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Episode guests

Ben Casselman

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Navigating Economic Uncertainty

7min

Interest Rates and Economic Realities

6min

Federal Reserve's Rate Cut: A Balancing Act

6min

Debate Dynamics: Challenges to the Status Quo

2min

The United States economy is in the middle of a record-long expansion. So why is the government deploying an economic weapon it last used during the 2008 financial crisis? Guest: Ben Casselman, who covers the economy for The New York Times. For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily.

Background reading:

The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate for the first time in more than a decade as it tried to insulate the economy from President Trump’s trade war and a global slowdown.
The quarter-point reduction is unlikely to get you a better mortgage rate. Here’s where you might see effects.

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