Nova Safo

In this enlightening discussion, Nova Safo, a business and economics reporter, breaks down surprising Labor Department data showing a 4.9% productivity surge even as hiring stalls. Alexander Petrie, a staff writer at The Atlantic, shares his firsthand experience attempting government tasks, highlighting the ramifications of federal workforce cuts. They explore the paradox of productivity growth in a stagnant labor market, discuss the potential societal impacts of public service reductions, and delve into how such cuts can shift burdens onto citizens.

Nova Saffo, a Marketplace reporter focused on business and technology, discusses Microsoft's commitment to covering extra electricity costs for its AI data centers, addressing community fears about rising bills. Andrew Campbell, Executive Director at the Energy Institute at Berkeley, weighs in on the implications of U.S. control over Venezuelan oil. He explains the complexities of Venezuela's oil market and the limited immediate effects on U.S. gas prices, while outlining the significant reforms needed for the country to attract foreign investment.

Join Nova Safo, a Marketplace reporter specializing in economics, as she unpacks the recent 4.9% productivity surge and its strange coexistence with a stagnant labor market. Meanwhile, Alexandra Petrai, a Staff writer at The Atlantic, shares her eye-opening experience attempting to perform federal government tasks, highlighting the mental load of public services. They also discuss NYC’s expanded free child care for at-risk areas and the shifting landscape for small businesses during the holiday season.

Nova Safo, a Marketplace correspondent specializing in labor markets, dives into the evolving job landscape as we approach 2026. She discusses the cooling post-COVID hiring trends and the emerging low-hire, low-fire dynamic influenced by immigration limits and tariffs. Insightful predictions highlight that tax and rate cuts may invigorate hiring later in the year. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on white-collar jobs and how NASDAQ's push for near 24/7 trading reflects growing demand in the market.

In this engaging discussion, reporter Nova Safo reveals how GDP growth is surging without a matching increase in job creation, thanks to productivity gains driven by automation and AI. Adam Posen shares insights on the easing U.S.-China trade tensions while highlighting China's economic struggles. Meanwhile, reporter Amy Scott showcases innovative AI-powered recycling technologies that enhance sorting efficiency and cut costs. Together, they explore the complexities of today's economic landscape, including the impact of immigration on labor markets.