2161. A Mid-Year Update from Monday Morning Economist
A mid-year update highlights community support, popular articles, and growth in subscriptions, while encouraging readers to share the newsletter and engage with educational resources.
2162. Massive Rent-Seeking in India’s Government Job Examination System
Alex Tabarrok discusses the economic inefficiencies and societal costs of India's government job examination system, highlighting the extensive rent-seeking behavior it generates.
2163. Muskenfreude
Paul Krugman critiques the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and discusses Elon Musk's political power and failures in the context of government spending and oligarchy.
2164. Light Vehicles Sales Decreased to 15.34 million SAAR in June
Light vehicle sales decreased to 15.34 million SAAR in June, reflecting a decline from May and a year-over-year increase influenced by previous disruptions.
2165. We can't afford to keep cutting taxes for the rich
Noah Smith argues that the GOP's tax cuts for the wealthy exacerbate federal debt and are economically unsustainable, contrary to claims of stimulating growth.
2166. MBA: Mortgage Applications Increase in Latest MBA Weekly Survey
Mortgage applications rose, driven by lower rates, with significant increases in refinancing activity, while purchase applications showed modest growth amid market uncertainty.
2167. Tyler Cowen travel tips
Tyler Cowen shares travel tips emphasizing the value of visiting unexpected places to gain richer experiences and challenge preconceived notions about destinations.
2168. Tech layoffs, recession pop and more listener questions answered
Wailin Wong addresses listener questions about the job market for IT grads, recession pop, and Trump's comments on tariffs.
2169. Paramount agrees to pay $16 million to settle Trump's CBS lawsuit
David Folkenflik discusses Paramount Global's $16 million settlement regarding President Trump's lawsuit over a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris.
2170. Defying the Data: Standard of Living Edition
Kevin Corcoran discusses the concept of "defying the data" in relation to standard of living claims, reflecting on personal experiences and societal perceptions.
2171. The two theories of Zohran
Nate Silver discusses Derek Thompson's insights on the Substack economy, the New York City mayoral race involving Zohran Mamdani, and the implications of voter turnout.
2172. June FT-Booth Macro Survey: GDP level same as March Survey
Menzie Chinn discusses the FT-Booth June survey results, highlighting GDP optimism and recession expectations among macroeconomists.
2173. US Health Care Expenditures: An Ominous Trend Returns?
Timothy Taylor discusses the projected rise in US health care expenditures as a share of GDP and its implications for the economy and society.
2174. In a lawsuit, Lululemon accuses Costco of selling knockoffs of the athleisure brand
Lululemon claims Costco is selling cheaper knockoff versions of its signature designs under the Kirkland Signature brand.
2175. Construction Spending Decreased 0.3% in May
Construction spending declined in May, with private spending decreasing and public spending slightly increasing, reflecting a year-over-year downturn in residential and non-residential sectors.
2176. Tuesday's Assorted Links
The author discusses various economic stories and principles, including costs, poverty, and financial education for children.
2177. Waffle House drops egg surcharge as prices fall back to Earth
A restaurant chain removes its egg surcharge due to falling prices and improved supply after a period of high costs caused by avian flu.
2178. Which Class Are You In?
Scott Sumner critiques progressive definitions of class based on income, arguing they overlook the complexities of class identity and economic aspirations in America.
2179. Republicans Beware: Medicaid Is Not a Soft Target
Paul Krugman argues that Medicaid is not an easy target for cuts, as public support for the program has significantly increased among Americans, including Republicans.
2180. BLS: Job Openings Increased to 7.8 million in May
Bill McBride discusses the BLS report indicating job openings increased to 7.8 million in May, with little change in hires and separations.