The Economy, Stupid

Explore the impact of forgotten subscriptions and the growth of subscription plans. Discover the practice of drip pricing and its effectiveness for sellers. Understand psychological factors in online shopping and the impact of additional fees. Dive into the hidden costs of retail returns and strategies to reduce them.

This podcast explores the rising costs of tertiary education and the impact of student debt on individuals and society. It discusses the Job Ready Graduates Package, concerns for law students, implications of student debt, and the government's approach towards higher education and student debt.

Taylor Swift is on track to make over $US1 billion from her world tour. Here’s how she (and other superstars) make so much.

This podcast explores the economics of present giving during Christmas and discusses topics like changes in Christmas shopping habits, the inefficiency of gift-giving, the rise of online shopping and AI's impact on present buying, luxury spending and exclusivity, and the art of gift-giving.

Disagreement between PNG and the IMF, anti-city sentiment, Germany's governance structure, and the future of cities in solving humanity's problems are discussed in this podcast.

Exploring the idea of making the Reserve Bank independent in Australia, upcoming elections' implications for democracy, China's slowing growth and potential for a second Cold War, and the progress and future of artificial intelligence.

Topics covered include: high market concentration in Australia's industries, concerns about mergers by big tech firms, assessing mergers and the need for competition reform, challenges faced by the European Union, shopper preferences for main shopping streets focusing on pharmacies, and the importance of supporting small local retailers and third places in local communities.

Danielle Wood, Economist and new Chair of the Productivity Commission, discusses the economic impact of the conflict between Gaza and Israel, the blockade's devastating effects on Gaza's economy, and the Commission's role in providing policy advice. The podcast also touches on the challenges of low productivity and the government's commitment to addressing issues and implementing recommendations for a better work environment.

In this podcast, they discuss the recent decision to raise the cash rate, the challenges in planning infrastructure projects, and the limitations faced by the Reserve Bank of Australia. They also explore the impact of panels in government procurement, the distinction between roles in consultancy companies, and the evolution of the Consumer Price Index.

Superannuation funds, interest rate decisions, and cautionary tales about business expenses are discussed. The government critiques the superannuation industry's lack of retirement income strategies and member engagement. The need for adaptation in superannuation funds and factors influencing the cash rate are explored. The episode also delves into potential factors affecting the Reserve Bank of Australia's decision on the cash rate. A cautionary tale is shared about a senior analyst who lost his job due to an expense claim controversy. Personal conduct and its influence on work life is discussed.