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Economist Podcasts

Money Talks: Touring America’s industrial revival

Nov 9, 2023
The podcast takes listeners on a road trip across America to explore the impact of President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act on green infrastructure. It highlights the construction boom of battery and electric vehicle plants in small towns. The discussion showcases Panasonic's new battery factory in DeSoto, revealing mixed community feelings about industrial growth. Stanton, Tennessee's turn from decline to manufacturing opportunity is explored, shedding light on local hopes and the importance of creative talent. The episode wraps up with insights into Jacksonville's film history and WeWork's financial challenges.
44:54

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Quick takeaways

  • The Inflation Reduction Act has led to a surge in manufacturing construction in the US, with factories being built for electric vehicles and batteries, indicating positive signs for US manufacturing and job creation.
  • Small towns in America are hopeful that Biden's industrial policy, particularly the Inflation Reduction Act, will revitalize their communities by attracting investments, creating high-paying jobs, and stimulating economic growth, although challenges such as rising housing prices and the need for sufficient demand for electric vehicles remain.

Deep dives

US manufacturing experiences surge in construction

Since the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) by President Joe Biden in 2022, there has been a significant increase in manufacturing construction across the US. The IRA promises $370 billion of government funds for green infrastructure and industry, including tax credits for Americans on solar panels and electric vehicles made in the country. This boost in investment has led to the construction of factories that will produce electric vehicles and batteries. For example, Toyota is investing $13.9 billion in a new EV plant in North Carolina, which is expected to create 5,000 new jobs. This surge in manufacturing construction is viewed as a positive sign for US manufacturing and job creation.

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