Marketplace Morning Report

This edition features a diverse collection of experts, including economist Diane Swank, who delves into the surge in precious metals amid policy uncertainty. Henry App discusses Nvidia's innovative licensing deal with Grok, shedding light on how tech firms collaborate with startups. William Lee Adams explains the significant impact of ending the de minimis exemption, which has spurred profits for logistics companies but hit small businesses hard. Guests share personal stories of lost sales and rising prices, illustrating the real-world effects of this policy change.

Henry Epp is a retail and consumer topics reporter, shedding light on the trend of retailers charging for returns due to the costs associated with online shopping. Reema Crace, host of This Is Uncomfortable, discusses the recent boycott against major retailers and its impact on consumer behavior. She explores the psychological effects of these boycotts, revealing how they create anxiety and moral dilemmas for shoppers trying to align their purchases with their values.

Will Grant, a BBC correspondent, offers insightful perspectives on Mexico's trade dynamics with the U.S., addressing issues like tomato tariffs and water-sharing conflicts. Surinjana Tiwari sheds light on how countries in the Asia-Pacific region navigate complex relationships with China amid shifting supply chains. William Lee Adams delves into the impact of losing the de minimis exemption on international sellers and U.S. consumers, highlighting real stories from small businesses grappling with increased costs and logistics challenges.

In a compelling discussion, reporter Amy Scott and Kansas farmer Paul Penner tackle the pressing impact of climate change on agriculture. They reveal how the shifting dry line is affecting wheat yields and global food supply. Paul shares his experiences with rising drought occurrences and how he's adapted through no-till farming to retain soil moisture. The talk highlights the stark contrast between recent heavy rains and ongoing dryness and underscores the pressing need for farmers to navigate market challenges amid low wheat prices.

Tom Pisha-Duffly, co-owner of Portland's Gato Gato and Oma's Hideaway, shares his approach to holiday meals, emphasizing family over extravagance. He discusses the joy of communal dining through his festive rijsttafel tradition, influenced by his Anglo-Indonesian background. Tom and his partner Mariah advocate for opting for takeout during the holidays to alleviate stress, allowing more quality time with loved ones. Their insights reveal a refreshing departure from the pressures of restaurant life, focusing on the heart of family gatherings.

Discover Yiwu, the bustling Chinese city that supplies over half of the world's Christmas decorations. Explore its transformation from a rural town to a global trade hub for festive goods. Hear about the entrepreneurial spirit driving innovation in ornament production, and the challenges traders face amid rising U.S. tariffs. As U.S. orders decline, merchants are shifting focus to markets in Latin America and the EU, all while preparing for future Christmas seasons.

Sky Atondo, an event coordinator at Milk Studios in Los Angeles, shares his insights on the benefits of in-person work, especially for younger professionals seeking mentorship and connection. He highlights how face-to-face interactions foster deeper understanding compared to emails. Meanwhile, Marketplace reporter Mitchell Hartman analyzes stagnating U.S. industrial production, pointing out how rising tariffs are impacting manufacturing and auto output. Together, they offer a fresh perspective on the evolving workplace dynamics and economic trends.

Nova Safo, a Marketplace journalist specializing in policy and economics, discusses a federal court ruling restoring millions in Homeland Security grants to various states after a controversial funding freeze. Meanwhile, Charles Dennis, executive director at Feeding America, Kentucky's Heartland, highlights the looming challenges local food banks face as SNAP changes threaten food access. He emphasizes the surge in demand for assistance and the importance of community support during tough times.

Ella Hoxer, an investment management professional specializing in commodities, shares valuable insights into market dynamics for 2025. She discusses a striking 109% surge in silver prices due to industrial demand and limited supply. Hoxer explains the challenges in the oil market, noting a decline due to ample supply and weaker demand. Additionally, she highlights significant shifts in coffee and cocoa markets, with coffee rebounding from supply issues and cocoa experiencing a significant price correction. A fascinating exploration of commodities awaits!

Virginia Dolgast, a Professor at Cornell, dives into Disney's innovative content licensing deal with OpenAI's Sora, allowing fans to create videos with beloved characters. She highlights the impact on young audiences and the tension between consumer trends and Disney+ viewership. Larry Adam, Chief Investment Officer at Raymond James, shares insights on recent GDP growth and forecasts consumer spending trends, predicting boosts from tax rebates. Together, they explore the future of media and the shifting landscape in entertainment.