The Indicator from Planet Money

The federal government spends millions on culling coyotes, yet this strategy might be backfiring. Experts reveal that killing coyotes can inadvertently increase their populations due to their resilience and adaptability. The podcast highlights the unintended consequences of past extermination efforts and examines the shift towards more humane management practices. It also questions the accountability of these wildlife programs, pushing for coexistence rather than eradication.

This week's numbers reveal some surprising turns in the airline industry as Southwest Airlines shifts its baggage policy, moving away from free checked bags. Fraud is on the rise, with escalating losses from imposter scams leaving many consumers vulnerable. Meanwhile, Americans have developed an overwhelming love for avocados, with consumption skyrocketing from 500 million to three billion pounds annually. The discussion also touches on potential tariff implications and the financial literacy needed to navigate these changes.

Uncertainty steals the spotlight as tariffs and market fluctuations create waves in the economy. Humorous insights from the Beige Book reveal how even a Mississippi farmer is grappling with this dilemma. The Beigie Awards shed light on the toll of economic anxiety, honoring those who tackle these issues head-on. With rising costs and unpredictable policies, agriculture faces a tough landscape. Tune in for a blend of humor and eye-opening realities about navigating today's unpredictable market!

With the stock market in turmoil due to tariff issues and government cuts, many feel a crash is looming. However, this podcast unpacks the fear surrounding market downturns and emphasizes the importance of a long-term investment perspective. Listeners learn to stay grounded, avoid panic-driven decisions, and understand that market fluctuations are normal. Using relatable anecdotes and a tennis analogy, it highlights how focusing on the bigger picture can lead to better financial choices.

The podcast dives into the heated debate over government spending's role in GDP calculations. It highlights the Trump administration's stance on potentially separating government expenditures from GDP. Different opinions on the productivity of such spending are examined, alongside the complexities of measuring economic activity. The discussion also critiques GDP's limitations, including its neglect of the underground economy and overall well-being, while stressing the need for transparency in government finances.

Bad Bunny's latest album reflects on the changing landscape of Puerto Rico. The discussion dives into the island's complex tax laws, tracing their evolution since U.S. governance began. Listeners will learn about Act 22, a controversial tax initiative aimed at attracting wealthy newcomers, and discover its unintended consequences on local housing and economy. The conversation weaves through the rise and fall of Puerto Rico's economic prospects, shedding light on the challenges faced by long-term residents amid a shifting socio-economic tide.

The latest U.S. jobs report shows growth, but concerns loom over the integrity of government data. A former Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner raises alarm about potential manipulation of job statistics due to administrative changes. The podcast dives into the rigorous methods used by statistical agencies to maintain data accuracy, illustrating the significance of objective measures. With resources dwindling, the risks to credibility in labor statistics are critical, sparking a vital conversation about trust in economic indicators.

The pause in U.S. military aid to Ukraine raises new questions about a potential minerals deal. Experts discuss the strategic importance of rare earth elements, especially in the U.S.-China rivalry. Could Ukraine's untapped resources provide economic benefits, or are they just overhyped? The complexities and risks for private investors navigating this deal become clear amid ongoing conflict and outdated assessments. The geopolitical landscape could shift dramatically, depending on how this deal unfolds.

Mary Childs, a Planet Money reporter, sheds light on the controversial tolls of the Panama Canal amidst U.S.-Panama tensions. She discusses how tolls are structured based on ship size and type, not nationality, and the implications of President Trump's comments. The conversation dives into the effects of recent toll hikes and a new proposal for an auction system aimed at enhancing fairness. Childs also highlights the canal's strategic importance for U.S. shipping and the challenges posed by low water levels and infrastructure plans for the future.

The podcast dives into the tug-of-war between presidential power and the Federal Reserve's independence. It questions whether executive orders can truly maintain the Fed's autonomy while scrutinizing recent budget cuts and their impact on federal agencies. The conversation also touches on the hefty government deficit and the implications of proposed Medicaid tax cuts. As a bonus, it unearthed accounting errors linked to Doge, emphasizing the need for urgent corrections to safeguard taxpayer funds.