Dive into the intriguing world of holiday returns and changing retail policies! Discover the surprising shifts in REI’s return policy and its impact on loyal customers. Explore updates on student loan forgiveness plans and the challenges borrowers face. Get a glimpse into Argentina's economic struggles post-election, including inflation and currency woes. Lastly, learn about Sweden's remarkable parental benefits for families with multiples, highlighting the support available in today’s growing fertility landscape.
Retailers like REI are tightening return policies due to rising costs, creating tension between customer satisfaction and business sustainability.
The introduction of the SAVE plan for student loan repayment faces legal challenges, leaving millions of borrowers in financial uncertainty despite initial benefits.
Deep dives
Changes to REI's Return Policy
REI has tightened its return policy, impacting some customers who frequently returned items. Lindsay Powell, a long-time member, discovered her returns would no longer be accepted after receiving an email stating her return rate was nearly 80%. This policy change reflects a broader trend among retailers reassessing their return strategies in response to rising costs. The shift highlights a tension between customer satisfaction and company sustainability, as some members feel the sting of limits on a once-generous policy.
Update on Student Loan Repayment
The student loan repayment system has seen significant changes following the introduction of the SAVE plan by President Biden, which aimed to provide more flexible repayment options. However, a legal challenge from Republican state attorneys general has placed the plan in limbo, affecting approximately 8 million borrowers. Many borrowers, like Carlos Sanchez, initially experienced lower payments under the plan, only to find themselves in forbearance as the legality of SAVE is debated. This situation underscores the uncertainty many borrowers face regarding their financial futures amid ongoing legal proceedings.
Argentina's Economic Shifts Under Javier Milei
Javier Milei's presidency in Argentina has resulted in drastic economic changes, including significant government cutbacks and controversial policy adjustments. While inflation has decreased from over 25% to around 2.7% per month, many citizens are grappling with the consequences of austerity measures and rising living costs, leading to increased poverty and homelessness. Despite these challenges, Milei maintains a relatively high approval rating, suggesting a complex public perception of his policies. Critics warn that the immediate consequences of his shock therapy approach may overshadow potential long-term economic growth.
After the gift exchange comes another great holiday tradition: returns season. Once again, we are joining the fun in our own Planet Money way. We are returning to stories from years past to see what's changed since we last reported them. It's an episode we call The Rest of the Story.
We have updates on zombie mortgages, student loan forgiveness, Argentina's economy under its self-described anarcho-capitalist president, and the best place in the world to give birth to twins. Plus, a return to... returns.
So while you're looking for that holiday sweater in a better size, or waiting in line to trade in your Dutch oven for an air fryer, take a listen to all our latest little audio gifts. And see you in 2025!
This episode was hosted by Alexi Horowitz-Ghazi. It was produced by Sam Yellowhorse Kesler, and edited by Keith Romer and Jess Jiang. It was fact-checked by Sierra Juarez and engineered by Cena Loffredo. Alex Goldmark is Planet Money's executive producer.