A bite-sized show about big ideas. From the people who make Planet Money , The Indicator helps you make sense of what's happening in today's economy. It's a quick hit of insight into money, work, and business. Monday through Friday, in 10 minutes or less. Sign up for our newsletter . Support public media by joining NPR+ at plus.npr.org. You’ll get perks for over 25 NPR podcasts, including bonus episodes for Planet Money and sponsor-free listening for The Indicator.
In this episode of the Planet Money Indicator podcast, the hosts dive into the week’s important economic indicators. They discuss the upcoming COP29 climate conference, emphasizing climate finance and the idea of "solidarity levies" to support climate initiatives. The conversation also touches on the Home Builders Conf...
In this podcast episode, we dive into the fascinating world of pizza boxes. Starting from their origins as simple paper bags, we trace their evolution to the familiar corrugated cardboard design we see today. The discussion covers the engineering and manufacturing processes behind these everyday items, as well as their...
In this week's Indicator of the Week podcast, we explore three significant economic trends. First, we look at the challenges faced by DNA testing company 23andMe, which underscores the risks of subscription-based models and the difficulties of shifting into drug development. Next, we discuss Netflix's entry into live s...
This podcast explores the growing interest in nuclear energy, especially small modular reactors (SMRs), as a promising way to cut carbon emissions. Unlike traditional nuclear power plants, which are costly and raise safety concerns, SMRs offer a more standardized and compact approach. Major companies, including Google,...
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is facing significant financial challenges as the main source of flood insurance in the U.S. Although it remains the only viable option for many homeowners, the program often runs out of funds. This is due to low enrollment, outdated flood risk maps, weak development regulati...
In this podcast episode, the focus is on Sheila Bair, the former chair of the FDIC, and her innovative approach to enhancing financial literacy. Acknowledging the gap in accessible financial education for both children and adults, Bair has written children's books that cover essential financial concepts such as saving,...
The podcast explores the intricate dynamics between the government and private companies in the weather forecasting sector. Traditionally, the National Weather Service, part of NOAA, has been the main provider of weather data, treating it as a public resource. However, the emergence of private firms launching their own...
In this episode of Planet Money Indicator, the hosts explore the economic impact of a recent election. The S&P 500 experienced its biggest post-election surge ever, jumping 2.5% as investors anticipated deregulation from the new administration. Meanwhile, the Mexican peso briefly dipped against the dollar, affecting tr...
Cuba is currently facing a deep economic crisis characterized by frequent power outages, food shortages, and soaring inflation. This turmoil arises from several factors, including aging infrastructure, dwindling foreign currency reserves due to limited exports and outdated economic strategies, and the enduring US embar...
The US economy stands out among developed nations, largely due to its high productivity fueled by vibrant business activity, substantial investments in technology and capital, and energy independence achieved through the shale revolution. This economic strength is further bolstered by the US stock market's dominance an...
In this episode of "The Beigie Awards," the hosts delve into the current state of the US economy through the lens of the Federal Reserve's Beige Book. They shine a light on the transportation hurdles faced by the agricultural sector in the Midwest, particularly the rail congestion that’s affecting exports to Mexico and...
In this episode of the NPR Indicator podcast, the focus is on the apple surplus in Appalachia and the wider U.S. apple market. With an oversupply and stagnant demand, apple prices have dropped sharply, putting significant pressure on small farmers. In response, the USDA is stepping in with record-high Section 32 purcha...
In this podcast episode, the hosts explore the complex dynamics of the October jobs report, highlighting how major events like the Boeing strike and hurricanes impact the interpretation of employment data. Wailin Wong discusses the differences between payroll and household surveys, emphasizing the difficulties in accur...
In this podcast episode, we explore the significant economic effects of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. This legislation not only marginalized Chinese immigrants but also unintentionally weakened the economic strength of white communities in the American West. By linking these historical events to current immigratio...
In this podcast episode, we explore the crucial economic impact of immigrants, showcasing how they contribute through their skills, spending, taxes, investments, and innovative ideas. The discussion also addresses the hurdles faced by undocumented immigrants in reaching their full economic potential and emphasizes the ...
In this podcast episode, economist Jason Furman dives into the looming crisis surrounding Social Security and national debt. He warns that the current financial imbalance could trigger significant automatic cuts to benefits. Furman critiques the reliance on traditional debt metrics and instead calls for a focus on real...
In this podcast episode, the hosts explore the complexities of sukuk as a promising alternative in Islamic finance, especially against the backdrop of the Maldives and its growing debt crisis. They explain how sukuk function like bonds but comply with Islamic law, using a straightforward example of government land and ...
In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between economics and romantic relationships as part of our "Love Week" theme. Economist Tim Harford shares insightful ways to apply economic principles like game theory and surplus to tackle relationship challenges. He examines the complexities of love, such as in...
In this podcast episode, we explore how Hinge, the dating app, is evolving in response to user feedback. With new features like "Your Turn Limits" and improved transparency in its algorithms, Hinge is taking proactive steps to enhance the user experience. The episode shares personal stories from users like Marcus Hamil...
In this podcast episode, we explore the intriguing connection between wealth and love, focusing on the so-called "Dollar Princesses." These were wealthy American women who cleverly married into British aristocracy in the late 19th century. The episode examines the economic challenges faced by the British elite and the ...
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