What's causing inflation? One expert walks through some of the factors
As many Americans continue to struggle financially because of inflation, we set out to clear the air on some common claims about what's going on.
Economy
The pain of rising mortgage rates when you're waiting for your home to be built
Many Americans put down deposits of $20,000 or more with builders to put up new homes. But with mortgage rates rising, some can no longer afford the homes. And they could lose their deposits.
News brief: Jan. 6 hearing, NATO summit, recession fears lead to layoffs
A recap of the explosive testimony before the House Jan. 6 panel. Turkey agrees to support Norway and Sweden joining NATO. As fears of a recession build, companies are laying off workers.
Also hit by inflation? Your local taco truck
Higher prices for gasoline, meat and vegetables and even cooking oil have put pressure on food trucks as they struggle to balance menu prices with customers' expectations of a low-cost meal.
The strange underground economy of tree poaching
A new book dives deep into the fascinating criminal world of tree theft and efforts to combat it.
Some cities cancel Fourth of July fireworks because of shortages and fire concerns
Some major fireworks displays are canceled again this year — some over wildfire concerns amid dry weather and others because of enduring pandemic-related staffing and supply chain issues.
What's causing inflation
NPR's Ailsa Chang talks to Josh Bivens from the Economic Policy Institute about what's really behind high prices and supply issues contributing to inflation.
What's happening with Russia's 1st default on foreign debt in a century
The clock ran out on Russia's payments. But there's a twist: Russia does not consider itself in default because the country has the money, just its payments have been blocked by Western sanctions.
Biden announced a $600 billion global infrastructure program to counter China's clout
A decade after China's global infrastructure program started, the U.S., G7 countries and private capital will invest in clean energy, technology and other projects in developing countries.
How a massive refinery shortage is contributing to high gas prices
Oil refineries have lost capacity over recent years, making it nearly impossible to increase supply and stabilize gas prices at the pump.