Econ Blog

your daily dose of economic commentary

Side-Walking Problems

81. Side-Walking Problems

Alex Tabarrok critiques NYC's facade inspection laws and suggests alternative solutions to improve safety and reduce costs instead of merely beautifying temporary structures.

The Trump Trade is Unraveling

82. The Trump Trade is Unraveling

An argument that Bitcoin's value is linked to political dynamics, particularly the Trump administration's pro-crypto policies, which have contributed to its volatility and risks for investors.

Housing November 24th Weekly Update: Inventory Only Down 4.7% Compared to Same Week in 2019

83. Housing November 24th Weekly Update: Inventory Only Down 4.7% Compared to Same Week in 2019

Bill McBride discusses the current trends in single-family housing inventory, noting a slight decline compared to previous years and seasonal patterns.

Give thanks for the discounts: The feast will cost a little less this year

84. Give thanks for the discounts: The feast will cost a little less this year

Discounts on turkey and stuffing lead to a lower overall cost for Thanksgiving meals this year, despite rising grocery prices.

THC drinks are flying high. A new hemp law could kill the buzz

85. THC drinks are flying high. A new hemp law could kill the buzz

The popularity of THC-infused drinks may decline due to a new federal law potentially banning hemp-based products.

Will technology provide a boost to truck drivers — or will it replace them?

86. Will technology provide a boost to truck drivers — or will it replace them?

Camila Domonoske discusses the impact of technology on truck drivers, exploring whether it will enhance their roles or lead to their replacement.

Secretary of Treasury Bessent: No Recession in 2026

87. Secretary of Treasury Bessent: No Recession in 2026

An argument that current economic data suggests no recession is imminent in 2026, despite some concerning employment trends and historical precedents.

Vibecessions, Part II

88. Vibecessions, Part II

Paul Krugman analyzes the disconnect between positive economic indicators and negative public sentiment, exploring factors contributing to this "vibecession" phenomenon.

At least five interesting things: Future of Humanity edition (#72)

89. At least five interesting things: Future of Humanity edition (#72)

The post discusses the potential economic impacts of AI investment, tariffs, and inflation, highlighting the complexities of predicting economic outcomes and the interplay between demand and prices.

Here's why concerns about an AI bubble are bigger than ever

90. Here's why concerns about an AI bubble are bigger than ever

Concerns arise over the financial risks and potential bubble in AI investments as tech companies heavily invest in AI infrastructure using debt and risky strategies.

Raise the Yuan!

91. Raise the Yuan!

An argument that the renminbi is undervalued, hindering China's economic goals and global demand, and suggests a necessary appreciation of the currency.

Forward P/E Ratios – Mag 7 and Others

92. Forward P/E Ratios – Mag 7 and Others

The post analyzes the forward P/E ratios of the Magnificent 7 stocks, comparing them to trailing ratios and discussing their implications for future earnings predictions.

93. Persistent Unemployment: A Flaw In Capitalism

Robert Vienneau discusses the flaws in capitalism, particularly regarding persistent unemployment and the limitations of market clearing in labor economics.

Schedule for Week of November 23, 2025

94. Schedule for Week of November 23, 2025

The post outlines the economic reports scheduled for release during the week of Thanksgiving, highlighting key indicators and their expected announcements.

Opinion: Jamal Khashoggi's words live forever

95. Opinion: Jamal Khashoggi's words live forever

Scott Simon reflects on Jamal Khashoggi's enduring impact and the significance of his words following his tragic murder.

Keep Houston weird

96. Keep Houston weird

The post discusses the Houston Rockets' successful rebuilding strategy, their unconventional playing style, and standout players contributing to their impressive performance this season.

EJ Antoni’s Scary Picture … and a(nother) Emily Litella* Moment

97. EJ Antoni’s Scary Picture … and a(nother) Emily Litella* Moment

Menzie Chinn discusses EJ Antoni's commentary on monetary policy and its implications for the economy, referencing economic data and trends.

What’s an Essential Worker (or Activity)? No October CPI, Employment Release, but We Get a Hole Where the East Wing Used to Be

98. What’s an Essential Worker (or Activity)? No October CPI, Employment Release, but We Get a Hole Where the East Wing Used to Be

Menzie Chinn discusses the implications of the White House's demolition of the East Wing and the lack of timely economic data releases during government shutdowns.

Consumer Sentiment in November: Near Record Low

99. Consumer Sentiment in November: Near Record Low

Consumer sentiment in November is near record lows, suggesting economic distress, though definitions of recession based on sentiment are debated among economists.

The female crash test dummy has been a long time coming — but she isn't here yet

100. The female crash test dummy has been a long time coming — but she isn't here yet

A new female crash test dummy has been approved, but its immediate implementation in safety testing remains uncertain.