Marketplace All-in-One

The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index dropped in June. That’s after a brief reprive in May from a monthslong downward slide. Uncertainty surrounding the job market, tariffs, that GOP tax bill, trouble in the Middle East — what’s not to be glum about? In this episode, we explain what could shift the mood. Plus: Soon-to-be college grads in China prepare for an unwelcoming job market, oil shipping prices grow even as oil prices fall, and Congress considers a new way to regulate crypto.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

In this engaging discussion, Rose Kelanic, Director of the Middle East Program at Defense Priorities, sheds light on the tumultuous history of U.S.-Iran relations. She breaks down how sanctions shaped the 2015 nuclear deal and why it ultimately faltered. Kelanic emphasizes the human cost of these geopolitical tensions, recounting stories that highlight the struggles endured on both sides. The conversation also touches on Iran's nuclear ambitions in the wake of recent U.S. military actions, painting a complex picture of an ever-evolving conflict.

Bridget and Ryan delve into the quirky history of the 'penny' and break down the mechanics of ATMs. They blend nostalgia with humor as they explore how different currencies came to be, while sharing fun ideas for what ATMs could dispense instead of cash. The duo tackles the complexities of airline pricing, revealing what goes into those ticket costs and contrasting first-class versus economy experiences. They also reflect on the U.S. President's salary, comparing it to historical figures in a light-hearted way. It's a delightful mix of money wisdom and amusement!

Samantha Fields, a Marketplace reporter specializing in student loans, discusses potentially game-changing legislation affecting federal borrowing for college expenses. She outlines how proposed limits could force low-income families to resort to costly private loans, increasing their financial burden. Fields also examines the impact of these regulations on education accessibility and the future of public service employment, highlighting the risks of high debt levels and potential declines in college enrollment. Tune in for vital insights on a critical issue!

Tensions in the Israel-Iran conflict are affecting financial markets, yet Wall Street remains cautiously optimistic. Despite the chaos, there's an air of calm as Iran seems to play a careful game, acknowledging its constraints. Meanwhile, the oil market experiences dips in demand, impacting U.S. frackers. On another front, NATO gears up for a significant military spending increase, aiming to bolster defense capabilities in light of global pressures. A fascinating look at how geopolitics intersects with finance!

Oil prices are on a rollercoaster ride, plunging to $69 a barrel despite geopolitical tensions and a shaky ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Nobody expected a 15% drop from $81 amidst such chaos! Meanwhile, traders are adjusting their risk premiums, while significant discussions at the World Economic Forum address tariffs and AI’s role in economic growth. The global market reacts positively to the ceasefire, and Oman’s tax decisions are also stirring interest. Plus, the UK is considering regulatory reforms to boost competition in the tech industry!

Amid escalating conflicts, Iran faces a devastating internet blackout, crippling communication and information access for its citizens. Ahmad Ahmadian from Holistic Resilience highlights the struggles of the population as they navigate severe censorship. Innovative methods to bypass these restrictions are discussed, emphasizing the vital role of international support for digital freedom. The podcast delves into how these challenges affect survival during tumultuous times, showcasing the resilience and resourcefulness of the Iranian people.

Tensions in the Middle East spark discussions on U.S. oil production, with experts suggesting producers won't rush to increase output despite potential price hikes. The appeal of renting over buying is on the rise in the housing market as prices soar, while small business owners cope with economic pressures from tariffs and changing consumer behavior. Meanwhile, the vital role of trona in the mining industry and its challenges amid international competition are highlighted, showcasing the intricate dance of economics in today's turbulent landscape.

Tensions in oil markets rise as U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities spark fears of retaliation. The podcast reveals that Iran's control may not be the significant economic leverage many believe. Legislative hurdles hit the Republicans’ reconciliation efforts, illustrating the complexity of U.S. politics. Plus, listeners are introduced to captivating discoveries from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and an unexpected insight into how orcas utilize seaweed for grooming. The discussion hints at upcoming explorations of U.S.-Iran relations and their historic complexity.

A recent listeria outbreak tied to ready-to-eat meals has raised alarms about food safety following significant federal budget cuts. Experts express concern over diminished agency staffing, jeopardizing oversight and response capabilities. Meanwhile, the podcast also dives into the volatile oil markets influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Insights reveal how U.S. legislative actions impact economic decisions related to energy and food safety, highlighting a critical crossroads for consumer protection.