Economic policies that look like the start of a trade war are really aimed at addressing domestic economic problems.
The Economy
Why Being a Quitter Is a Good Sign for the Economy
You only quit a job when you’re confident you can find something better. And in December, more Americans since the start of the recession felt good enough to pack up their desk and look for employment elsewhere.
Lessons in Socialism: How Cuba Can Become Relevant Again
An entrepreneurial wave is emerging in Havana that, along with immigration reform in the U.S., is giving Cuba renewed relevance while giving Americans a close look at the dangers of extreme wealth redistribution.
Has the Banking Industry Really Been Fixed?
The banking sector still faces big challenges, but greater transparency will boost investor confidence and also encourage banks to manage risk better internally.
How a Century of Income Taxes Can Clarify Today’s Debates
History shows that there’s no right way to raise income taxes – but generally it’s smarter to eliminate preferences, deductions and loopholes rather than jacking up rates.
Cash Leaking Out of 401(k) Plans at Alarming Rate
A quarter of money socked away for retirement comes out early, much of it subject to penalties and income taxes. For many, the venerable 401(k) is just too darned inefficient
6 Reasons the Stock Market Could Do Surprisingly Well in 2013
A slow-growing economy with little inflation can actually be the best environment for blue-chip stocks.
What the Current Economic Outlook Means for American Families
The economy is likely to keep improving, but slow growth could develop into chronic stagnation.
Why Restaurants Have Been Holding Back on Hiking Menu Prices
As food prices rise, the cost of dining out inevitably inches up as well, right? Well, maybe not.
How Debt-Ravaged Greece Aced a Financial-Literacy Survey
In a poll, Greeks tested highest in all of Europe for mastery of personal financial issues. Here’s what this impossible finding means
Birth Rate Plunges During Recession
Birth rates hit an historic low in America last year. This small number of newborns will hit the workforce in 20 years, just as the last baby boomer reaches full retirement age. The pension math is not pretty.
How Fining Bad Banks Can Fix Our Biggest Money Problems
When the government came down hard on Big Tobacco a decade ago regulators required that a portion of any penalties go toward educating youth on the dangers of smoking. Amid the big bank Libor scandal and a stream of continuing bank fines, regulators now should require that a portion of future bank penalties fund financial education. It’s …
