Archive for the ‘Economic Perspective’ Category

Retail sales surge

The latest retail sales report has created quite a buzz among economists and business analysts. What’s all the hoopla about? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains.

Does Social Security keep pace with inflation?

The government recently said Social Security recipients would not receive a cost of living adjustment to keep up with higher prices. How bad does this make it for people who rely on Social Security to pay their bills? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden weighs in.

Why have long-term interest rates jumped?

After falling to generation lows, long-term interest rates, such as on fixed rate mortgages, have surged higher recently. Some of the rates are up almost three quarters of a percentage point. Why is this happening? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.

Who’s lost the most?

Data from the Federal Reserve showed that real estate values continue to fall. They fell over $600 billion dollars in just the third quarter of 2010. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden says that low value homes are losing the most.

Job trends

Jobs — or the lack of jobs — is clearly the Number One issue in the country today. But even if the recession ended tomorrow, some say we would still face job issues related to technology and globalization. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes listeners through the long view of job trends, answering whether good jobs still be here.

How much are states losing from Internet sales

Buying on the Internet is increasing by leaps and bounds, and a large portion of these sales escape sales taxes. Do we know what this costs states, including North Carolina? N.C. Cooperative Extension economist Mike Walden responds.

What is full employment today?

Everyone longs for the day when the unemployment rate was only 5 percent, as it was before the recession. But can we ever get back to that level? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.

Unemployment and unemployment benefits

Congress will likely extend again the period for receiving unemployment benefits. Supporters say this is needed to help those survive the tough economy. However, some critics say that, while compassionate, the extension also causes more unemployment. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden weighs in.

Evaluating improvements in unemployment

In 2010 North Carolina’s unemployment rate dropped from 11.2 percent to 9.6 percent. That’s a welcome big drop. But is there more behind it that may not make us smile? N.C. Cooperative Extension economist Mike Walden responds.

Cutting the payroll tax

A part of the president’s new tax plan is a reduction in the payroll tax. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains this tax and the impact a reduction would have on the economy.

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