Marketplace All-in-One The cost of GOP cuts to coal royalties
Sep 16, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Matt Levin, a seasoned reporter from Marketplace, dives into the economic repercussions of recent GOP policy changes affecting the coal industry. He reveals how easing coal royalty fees could financially strain states like Wyoming, which have relied heavily on coal revenues. Levin also highlights the curious indifference of the stock market to troubling economic news and explores the challenges small businesses face amidst tariff uncertainties. This conversation sheds light on the intricate links between policy, consumer behavior, and market dynamics.
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Markets Favour Short-Term Boosts
- Markets are rallying on expectations of Fed rate cuts and big fiscal tax cuts despite long-term risks.
- Investors prioritize short-term asset-price gains over concerns about inflation or eroding Fed independence.
E-Commerce Keeps Growing Fast
- Non-store (e-commerce) retail spending rose strongly, driven by new channels like social shopping and AI-assisted buying.
- Policy changes like ending the de minimis exemption also pushed some consumers to buy before tariffs took effect.
Small Store Closes Under Tariff Pressure
- Nicole Panetieri closed Tiny Owl after tariffs raised her costs about 20 percent and sales fell.
- She cut pay, laid off staff, and will refocus on another boutique after the store's lease ends.