Econ Blog

your daily dose of economic commentary

Why Europe should resist the Second China Shock

241. Why Europe should resist the Second China Shock

An argument that Europe faces economic challenges from a surge in Chinese high-tech exports, which could undermine local industries and trade balance.

Existence Of A Cost-Minimizing Solution In A Model With Extensive And Intensive Rent

242. Existence Of A Cost-Minimizing Solution In A Model With Extensive And Intensive Rent

Robert Vienneau explores a novel economic model that combines extensive and intensive rent, focusing on production processes and their efficiencies in agriculture.

MBA: Mortgage Applications Decrease in Latest Weekly Survey

243. MBA: Mortgage Applications Decrease in Latest Weekly Survey

Bill McBride discusses a decrease in mortgage applications according to the MBA's latest survey, highlighting trends in refinancing and home purchases.

Year end CWT retrospective episode with Jeff Holmes

244. Year end CWT retrospective episode with Jeff Holmes

The discussion reflects on personal experiences of humor and emotional responses, emphasizing a steady disposition towards pleasure and displeasure rather than extreme reactions.

Good news from the GDP report

245. Good news from the GDP report

James Hamilton discusses the recent U.S. GDP growth, indicating a positive economic outlook despite some concerns in the labor market.

Closing out some tabs before Xmas

246. Closing out some tabs before Xmas

The author shares personal reflections on family, music, and various academic studies, intertwining thoughts on happiness and historical figures while preparing for Christmas.

Election betting on prediction markets apps is set to boom ahead of midterms

247. Election betting on prediction markets apps is set to boom ahead of midterms

Bobby Allyn discusses the rise of election betting on prediction markets apps amid scrutiny and concerns about election interference ahead of the midterms.

How Does Japan Sustain Such High Government Debt?

248. How Does Japan Sustain Such High Government Debt?

Timothy Taylor discusses Japan's high government debt and explains how its consolidated debt is much lower than gross debt due to unique financial structures and low interest rates.

Tuesday's Assorted Links

249. Tuesday's Assorted Links

The post highlights holiday-related stories that illustrate economic principles, including rising prices, consumer spending, and the prevalence of holiday bonuses across different industries.

ICE First Look at Mortgage Performance: Seasonal and Calendar Factors Drive Rise in November Delinquencies

250. ICE First Look at Mortgage Performance: Seasonal and Calendar Factors Drive Rise in November Delinquencies

The post analyzes November's mortgage delinquency trends, attributing increases to seasonal factors and historical patterns, while noting significant shifts in prepayment and foreclosure activity.

Student loan borrowers in default may soon see their wages garnished

251. Student loan borrowers in default may soon see their wages garnished

An argument that millions of borrowers in default may soon face wage garnishment after a pandemic-related pause ends.

Three that Made a Revolution

252. Three that Made a Revolution

Alex Tabarrok discusses the transformative impact of three key figures in India's 1991 economic reforms that significantly reduced poverty and reshaped the country's economy.

A New K in America

253. A New K in America

Paul Krugman discusses the K-shaped economy in America, highlighting the disparity in wage growth between low-income and high-income workers during different administrations.

Final Look at Housing Markets in November and a Look Ahead to December Sales

254. Final Look at Housing Markets in November and a Look Ahead to December Sales

The post analyzes November housing market trends, noting declines in sales and prices, while forecasting potential future price declines in 2026.

Silver and Gold

255. Silver and Gold

Art Carden discusses the properties of silver and gold, their economic implications, and how market dynamics influence material choices in technology and decoration.

The U.S. economy grew robustly as Americans continued to spend

256. The U.S. economy grew robustly as Americans continued to spend

Alina Selyukh discusses the robust growth of the U.S. economy and ongoing consumer spending trends amidst political implications for voters and the Trump administration.

Industrial Production Increased 0.2% in November; Declined 0.1% in October

257. Industrial Production Increased 0.2% in November; Declined 0.1% in October

The post discusses recent changes in industrial production and capacity utilization, highlighting monthly increases and comparisons to historical averages.

Muscat, Oman travel notes

258. Muscat, Oman travel notes

Tyler Cowen describes Muscat, Oman as a relaxed, safe destination with rich history, cultural nuances, and a unique blend of modern and traditional elements.

Federal student loans are changing. Here's what to expect in 2026

259. Federal student loans are changing. Here's what to expect in 2026

Cory Turner discusses upcoming changes to federal student loan repayment options with the ending of the SAVE Plan in 2026.

Fed Governor/CEA Chair (on leave) Miran: “Fed Risks Recession Without More Interest Rate Cuts”

260. Fed Governor/CEA Chair (on leave) Miran: “Fed Risks Recession Without More Interest Rate Cuts”

An argument that the Federal Reserve risks recession without further interest rate cuts, despite not anticipating an immediate economic downturn.