Marketplace All-in-One Checking the pulse of the Las Vegas economy
Sep 30, 2025
David Brancaccio, host of Marketplace Morning Report and seasoned business journalist, dives into Las Vegas' tourism downturn. He explores the implications of a quieter Strip, highlighting how fewer visitors from California, China, and Canada are impacting the city's economy. Brancaccio discusses rising costs and the effects of discretionary spending cuts on local businesses. He also examines labor supply concerns tied to immigration policies and warns of potential travel disruptions from looming government shutdowns.
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Dual Economy: Conventions vs. Leisure
- Las Vegas conventions are holding up while leisure tourism is falling.
- The city now shows a split economy where business travel masks weaker discretionary spending.
Tourism Signals Discretionary Pullback
- Vegas visitation drops reflect cuts in discretionary spending first.
- Entertainment destinations act as early indicators of broader consumer weakness.
Coffee-Shop Owner Sees Tourist Drop
- Entrepreneur Wani Romero runs seven coffee shops and pairs with women-owned suppliers.
- Her downtown location is down about 30% for four to six months because it depends heavily on tourists.