121. Schedule for Week of May 11, 2025
Bill McBride outlines key economic reports and data releases scheduled for the week of May 11, 2025, including CPI, retail sales, and manufacturing surveys.
122. The Fox-to-Trump Funnel sweeps up Jeanine Pirro of 'The Five'
The post discusses Jeanine Pirro's appointment as interim U.S. attorney in Washington, D.C., highlighting her connection to Fox News and the Trump administration.
123. Elizabeth Holmes' partner raises millions for new biotech testing startup
A former Silicon Valley figure advises her partner on a health tech startup after being convicted of defrauding investors in a previous venture.
124. Caplan’s Experience of Mainstream Economists and My Students’ Surprise
David Henderson discusses Bryan Caplan's insights on the disconnect between mainstream and free-market economists, reflecting on his own teaching experiences with students' perceptions of economic biases.
125. May 2nd COVID Update: COVID Deaths Continue to Decline
Bill McBride discusses the decline in COVID deaths and the cessation of hospital reporting requirements, indicating a positive trend in COVID metrics.
126. Is the reign of the dollar over?
An argument that explores the potential decline of the dollar as the world's reserve currency and the implications of such a shift.
127. What to do about assessment?
The post discusses the challenges of AI-assisted cheating in education and explores various responses from educators, questioning the meaning and implications of grades.
128. The Fed needs a “Strong” leader.
Scott Sumner discusses the informal leadership dynamics within the Federal Reserve and the potential implications of appointing an unqualified chair.
129. Chinese consumers are spending less amid trade war and economic headwinds
Consumer confidence in China is declining, impacting government initiatives to boost spending amid deflation and ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.
130. They Took Our Jobs!
Tyler Watts discusses the impact of tariffs on jobs and the economy, arguing that while manufacturing jobs have declined, overall employment has increased.
131. Federal judge temporarily halts Trump's sweeping government overhaul
Andrea Hsu discusses a federal judge's inclination to temporarily block the Trump administration's extensive government overhaul.
132. Spring 2025 Journal of Economic Perspectives Freely Available Online
Timothy Taylor discusses the availability of the Spring 2025 issue of the Journal of Economic Perspectives and highlights its articles on drug pricing and regulation.
133. Trump fires all 3 Democrats on the Consumer Product Safety Commission
The post discusses Trump's decision to remove all Democratic members from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, highlighting his efforts to assert control over independent agencies.
134. Why didn't anyone predict the American pope?
The post discusses the unexpected election of an American pope and its implications for American politics and the Catholic Church's influence in the U.S.
135. Americans still dream about factory jobs. Can they be brought back?
Liam McBain explores the American desire for factory jobs and discusses the potential for their revival amid political and economic factors.
136. Some Hidden Costs of Tariffs
Jon Murphy discusses the various hidden costs of tariffs, emphasizing how firms adjust beyond just raising prices, impacting employee benefits and product lines.
137. Crypto Is Still for Criming
Paul Krugman discusses the ongoing issues of corruption and scams within the cryptocurrency market, particularly in relation to political figures and legislation.
138. AAR: Rail Carloads and Intermodal Up in April
The post discusses April's increase in U.S. rail carloads and intermodal traffic, highlighting resilience in rail volumes amid economic uncertainty from policy changes.
139. The Birth Dearth: Panic or Celebrate?
The post examines the implications of declining global fertility rates, debating whether to fear or embrace the potential consequences on economics, geopolitics, and quality of life.
140. Why Warren Buffett matters beyond Wall Street
An argument that the investor's influence extends beyond finance, highlighting his reputation and character amidst a critical view of other billionaires.