Econ Blog

your daily dose of economic commentary

301. SBSQ #25: Why "No Kings" is a W for Democrats when the shutdown isn't

The discussion centers on the implications of government shutdowns for political dynamics, particularly how polling data influences perceptions of accountability among Democrats and Republicans.

AIA: "Softness persists at architecture firms" in September

302. AIA: "Softness persists at architecture firms" in September

The post discusses declining architecture firm conditions, indicated by a low Architecture Billings Index, suggesting ongoing softness in the sector and potential future impacts on commercial real estate investment.

Marijuana Policy in a Fragmented Legal Structure

303. Marijuana Policy in a Fragmented Legal Structure

The discussion highlights the inconsistencies in marijuana policy across states and the implications for public health and safety due to federal classification.

Profits are Social Authentication

304. Profits are Social Authentication

An argument that profits serve as a form of social authentication, reflecting consumer preferences and enabling market efficiency through individual choices and collective voices.

The U.S. Economy is in Worse Shape Than it Looks

305. The U.S. Economy is in Worse Shape Than it Looks

Paul Krugman discusses the disconnect between perceived economic stability and underlying issues, highlighting political uncertainty and inequality affecting the U.S. economy.

Should we worry about AI's circular deals?

306. Should we worry about AI's circular deals?

An argument that circular financial arrangements among AI companies may signal potential instability and inflation of perceived value, reminiscent of the dot-com bubble.

MBA:Mortgage Applications Decrease in Latest Weekly Survey

307. MBA:Mortgage Applications Decrease in Latest Weekly Survey

Mortgage applications fell slightly, while refinancing activity increased due to lower rates, indicating mixed trends in the housing market compared to previous years.

A Few Photos from Patagonia

308. A Few Photos from Patagonia

The post shares personal experiences and photos from a trip to Patagonia, highlighting its natural beauty and significant landmarks.

The Ambulance-Transport-to-Dialysis Fraud

309. The Ambulance-Transport-to-Dialysis Fraud

Timothy Taylor discusses Medicare fraud related to non-emergency ambulance transport for dialysis patients and the implications for government spending oversight.

Tuesday's Assorted Links

310. Tuesday's Assorted Links

Jadrian Wooten discusses various stories highlighting economic principles and teaching applications, including basic income, corporate banking, and market competition.

NAHB: Builder Confidence Increased in October, Negative territory for 18 consecutive months

311. NAHB: Builder Confidence Increased in October, Negative territory for 18 consecutive months

Builder confidence in the housing market increased in October, yet remains below the threshold indicating positive sales conditions, reflecting ongoing economic challenges.

The MR Podcast: Our Favorite Models, Session 2: The Baumol Effect

312. The MR Podcast: Our Favorite Models, Session 2: The Baumol Effect

Alex Tabarrok discusses the Baumol effect, emphasizing its implications on labor-intensive repair services and the shift towards cheaper new goods over time.

On Fair Prices

313. On Fair Prices

An argument that explores the concept of "fair price," distinguishing between price and cost, and questioning the morality associated with pricing in a world of scarcity.

Donald Trump Has Lost Touch With Reality

314. Donald Trump Has Lost Touch With Reality

An argument that Donald Trump's detachment from reality is exacerbated by sycophants, impacting his perception of events and decision-making, with potential consequences for millions.

LA Ports: Imports and Exports Down YoY in September

315. LA Ports: Imports and Exports Down YoY in September

Container traffic data reveals a decline in imports and exports at LA ports, indicating a downward trend in trade activity over the past year.

316. Fixed Capital And Extensive Rent

Robert Vienneau discusses the properties of production models involving fixed capital and extensive rent, comparing them to those with circulating capital.

A theory why the internet is going down the toilet

317. A theory why the internet is going down the toilet

Greg Rosalsky discusses a new book that identifies issues plaguing major American companies.

Trade Expert EJ Antoni on Tariff Pass-Through

318. Trade Expert EJ Antoni on Tariff Pass-Through

An argument that tariff pass-through to consumers is significant, countering claims of minimal price increases, supported by evidence of effective tariff rates and timing of implementation.

What Releases Have We Missed? What Will We Miss? And What Will Be the Impact?

319. What Releases Have We Missed? What Will We Miss? And What Will Be the Impact?

The discussion centers on the impact of missed economic data releases due to a potential government shutdown and the resulting uncertainty for businesses and the economy.

EconoFact: “The U.S. Agricultural Sector Under Stress”

320. EconoFact: “The U.S. Agricultural Sector Under Stress”

Menzie Chinn discusses the challenges facing the U.S. agricultural sector, including high costs, low prices, and the impact of the Trump administration's policies.