Archive for the ‘Economic Perspective’ Category

Christmas sales

Hard to believe, but it’s almost Christmas. And, of course, with Christmas comes Christmas shopping, which is so important to many retailers. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden discusses what economists are saying about the outlook for holiday sales this year.

Tax expenditures

In discussions about the impending fiscal cliff and moving the federal budget more toward balance, the term tax expenditures comes up frequently. Is this just another name for federal spending? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.

Gas price trends

There’s been reason to smile lately because gas prices have been falling. Why? And will the decline continue? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.

Better spending power

Economists and others are always looking for indicators for future trends. One indicator suggests consumer finances are vastly improved, thereby setting the stage for faster growth. What is this positive measure? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.

Is more borrowing a good sign?

Government data show consumer borrowing for mortgages, car loans and other reasons is beginning to rise after several years of falling. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether this is a positive sign for the economy – or if it means trouble ahead.

Workers and economic growth

Although the economy has been expanding and jobs have been increasing, the pace of improvement has been slow. Does this mean we’re stuck with unemployment rates much higher than we’d like? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.

The up, down and up of housing

There’s finally some optimism about the housing market as prices, sales and construction have all begun to rebound. But how far does housing have to go to get back to where it was? And will it ever get back to that level? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.

Suffering from a cost disease

There are certain parts of our economy — such as health care and education — where prices seem to be rising consistently faster than in other sectors. Is there a fundamental economic reason behind this? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.

Guaranteeing jobs

Jobs continue to be the country’s number one economic concern. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden discusses a bold but simple plan another economist has offered for increasing jobs.

Where do we go from here?

The country has voted, and now the discussion is about the public issues to be addressed in the upcoming years. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden is asked to use his crystal ball to predict those key issues and debates.

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