Marketplace How cheap is too cheap?
6 snips
May 5, 2025 
Henry Epp, a reporter from Marketplace, dives into the challenges facing the oil industry as crude prices plummet to just $58 a barrel. He discusses the tough decision oil companies face between investing in production or satisfying investors with dividends. Meanwhile, Julie Creswell, a New York Times writer, tackles the struggle of phasing out synthetic food dyes from American foods. They explore the complexities behind these modern dilemmas and how they affect consumers and industries alike.
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Oil Break-Even Price Insight
- Oil companies generally need around $60 a barrel to break even on production in the U.S.
- Prices below this level force firms to choose between cutting back production or disappointing investors.
Health Care Job Stability Risks
- Health care employment is usually stable during downturns but faces new risks due to Medicaid cuts.
- Lower skilled health care jobs support many workers shifting from more vulnerable sectors.
U.S. Dollar's Endurance Explained
- The U.S. dollar remains the dominant global currency due to its liquidity and extensive use in trade and commodities.
- Despite uncertainties, replacing the dollar would require a fundamental market shift.