Marketplace

Verizon faces a steep decline with 300,000 lost subscribers, attributed to government layoffs and fierce competition. The fallout may affect other corporations amidst DOGE-fueled funding cuts. Meanwhile, the U.S. lags behind China in nuclear power expansion, raising concerns about energy competitiveness. Aging Catholic sisters struggle financially, highlighting the economic pressures on older Americans. The jewelry industry also feels the pinch as fluctuating tariffs threaten artisan craftsmanship.

Tariffs are reshaping the aviation landscape, with China rejecting Boeing deliveries leading to redirected jets. The paradox of a strong U.S. economy contrasts with market vulnerabilities, raising concerns about global competitiveness. Rising credit card debt poses challenges for consumers, while visa revocations threaten U.S. innovation in tech and science, especially among international students. The evolving housing market reveals new dynamics for first-time buyers grappling with economic pressures.

Catherine Ann Edwards, a labor economist and policy consultant, shares her insights on the evolving American economy. She discusses how shifting trade policies and tariffs are impacting global trade dynamics and employment. The conversation dives into the challenges facing small businesses in industries like music instruments and denim, as they navigate trade uncertainty. Listeners ask pressing questions about the future of the U.S. dollar and recession risks, highlighting the real-world implications of these economic changes.

Some relief seems to have arrived on the housing shortage front — listings are up 9% compared to last year. But buyers who’ve been waiting for more properties to go on the market? Not many are biting. In this episode, why the housing market flip-flopped and put sellers in a tough situation. Plus, why the theft of food benefits is common and how warming waters are affecting Maine’s shrimp industry. 

Mitchell Hartman, a reporter for Marketplace, dives into the current economic landscape where stable jobless claims contrast sharply with other market uncertainties. He discusses how Trump's tariffs may unintentionally encourage businesses to retain employees. The conversation also touches on the European Central Bank's interest rate cuts and the significance of EV tax credits. Additionally, Hartman shares inspiring stories of resilience from Altadena's business owners who are persevering despite challenges, highlighting the intertwined nature of community spirit and economic turbulence.

Mitchell Hartman, a Marketplace reporter specializing in industrial production, joins Jonathan Secreta from CFRA Research, an analyst focused on manufacturing and trade. They discuss how tariff fears are reshaping discretionary spending, turning fun splurges into stress purchases. The conversation touches on a mixed manufacturing report, Bitcoin's fluctuating status as 'digital gold,' and the recovery efforts for community members affected by California wildfires. Listeners gain insights into the emotional and economic dynamics driving contemporary consumer behavior.

In this discussion, guest Lisa Goldenberg, President of Delaware Steel Company, shares her expertise on the ramifications of tariffs on the steel industry. She highlights how businesses are stockpiling inventory, drawing parallels to challenges faced during the pandemic. The conversation dives into trade tensions affecting oil prices and their implications for economic stability. Goldenberg also addresses the disconnect between economic indicators and daily realities, shedding light on how these factors shape community resilience in uncertain times.

Todd Adams, the owner of Sanitube, specializes in stainless steel tubing for the food industry. He shares insights on how recent tariffs are putting his small business in ‘survival mode.’ Fear of unemployment is rising, causing companies to rethink office leases, which may impact commercial real estate. The discussion also covers the shift in foreign investment in the U.S. and the challenges small businesses face with payroll amid economic uncertainty. Adams provides a first-hand perspective on navigating tough economic waters.

Some companies are creatively avoiding tariffs, raising questions about customs inspections. Meanwhile, car insurance rates have dipped unexpectedly, although this trend may not last long. A six-figure income today doesn't stretch as far as it used to, revealing financial strains on households. Also, a technical glitch recently disrupted tariff collections, highlighting the vulnerabilities in financial systems. Amid all this, consumer sentiment reveals a struggle between inflation fears and impulsive spending in uncertain economic times.

Kristen Schwab, a dedicated reporter from Austin, tackles pressing economic issues, shedding light on the bond market's struggles amid rising Treasury yields and fluctuating investor confidence. The discussion also highlights the adverse effects of Trump's policies on minority contractors, exploring how these changes threaten opportunities for disadvantaged businesses. Amidst these financial challenges, Schwab shares a poignant story of a millennial's dream of homeownership, emphasizing the emotional complexities of navigating aspirations in today's economy.