Why Oil Prices Could Tank the Economy & St. Louis Real Estate Market Plummets
Apr 15, 2024
28:20
auto_awesome Snipd AI
Exploring the impact of escalating tensions in the Middle East on oil prices and the global economy. St. Louis selling iconic building at a fraction of its peak value. Broadway season concerns about filling seats. Rising prices affect Forever Stamp. Weekend winners shared by hosts.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Growing tensions in the Middle East could lead to increased oil prices, impacting the economy negatively.
Sale of a St. Louis office building at a significant discount reflects economic challenges in the Midwest.
Deep dives
The Impact of Rising Oil Prices and Middle East Tensions
Recent Middle East tensions have raised concerns about higher oil prices, which could lead to increased gas prices and impact various industries. The direct confrontation involving Iran, Israel, and the US could disrupt energy supplies, especially considering Iran's role as a major oil producer. Furthermore, the broader context of OPEC+ cutting output and other geopolitical factors like Ukraine's actions against Russian oil facilities contribute to the overall upward pressure on oil prices.
Midwest Office Building Sale and Economic Challenges
The significant sale of a 44-story office building in St. Louis at a 98% discount highlights economic struggles in the Midwest. With a record high office vacancy rate in St. Louis, the downtown area faces challenges as empty offices lead to dwindling foot traffic, affecting local businesses. Population loss, suburban competition, and urban planning issues contribute to the bleak outlook for Midwest downtowns, emphasizing the need for revitalization efforts.
Broadway's Revival and the Surge in Show Openings
Historically high Broadway show openings, with 14 new shows debuting in just 11 days, signal a resurgence in the theater industry. The influx of new productions raises concerns about standing out in a crowded market and the financial viability of shows. This theatrical boom follows a period of closure and existential questions during the pandemic, drawing attention to the evolving landscape of Broadway entertainment.
Mail Price Increase and USPS Financial Challenges
The USPS plans to raise the price of Forever stamps by five cents, marking the sixth price hike since 2021 to address financial challenges. Despite comparisons showing US postage as relatively cheaper compared to other countries, declining first-class mail volume and rising healthcare and pension costs contribute to the postal service's financial struggles. The price adjustments aim to sustain solvency amidst losses and evolving communication trends.
Episode 301: Neal and Toby get into the oil price concern that’s coming from the growing tensions in the Middle East and how it could hurt the economy. Then, St. Louis is selling one of its iconic buildings in downtown for a fraction of its peak price. Next, Broadway season is in full swing but shows may be worried that there aren’t enough seats to be filled. Also, Neal and Toby share their biggest weekend winners. Meanwhile, the Forever Stamp is the latest victim of rising prices, but it might not be as bad as it seems. Finally, a look at what’s coming up this week.
00:00 - Intro
2:40 - Oil prices rising
6:30 - St. Louis doom loop
10:20 - Broadway back for good?
14:00 - Weekend winners
18:20 - First-class stamps
21:00 - Week ahead
Get your Morning Brew Daily Merch HERE: https://shop.morningbrew.com/products/morning-brew-daily-sweatshirt?utm_medium=multimedia&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=mbd&utm_content=shownotes
Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here: https://link.chtbl.com/MBD
Disclosures: Returns are not guaranteed. Interest is earned on uninvested cash swept from your brokerage account to program banks. The cash sweep program is offered through Robinhood Financial LLC. Terms apply. Robinhood is not a bank.
Terms apply to the match and limitations apply to IRAs. 3% match requires Robinhood Gold for 1 year from the date of first 3% match. Must keep Robinhood IRA for 5 years. Visit robinhood.com/retirement for more information.
Robinhood Financial LLC (member SIPC) is a registered broker dealer.