Marketplace Chili's is back (baby back, baby back)
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Aug 22, 2025 Ivan Penn, an energy reporter for the New York Times, dives into the surprising success of Chili's amid economic fluctuations. He explores how the restaurant's viral marketing and appeal to Gen Z have sparked record sales. The discussion also covers the rising energy demands of AI data centers and their impact on consumer electricity costs. Additionally, insights into interest rate adjustments by the Federal Reserve and their broader economic implications are shared, revealing the intricate connection between dining trends and financial realities.
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Fed Opens Door To A Possible Cut
- Chair Powell signaled the Fed is open to a rate cut soon while still worried about inflation's path.
- Markets saw relief, but bond futures showed investors remained only partially convinced about a September cut.
Labor Risks Now Central To Fed Thinking
- Powell shifted tone toward downside risks for employment, raising the prospect of layoffs.
- That change helps explain why the Fed might prioritize labor-market stability over immediate inflation fights.
Stocks Rally, Futures Stay Cautious
- Markets rallied on relief that Powell opened the door to cuts, but futures priced less than certainty for September.
- That gap signals investors remain wary about upcoming jobs and inflation data.