The Cost of Life in America
Over the past two decades, prices on average have increased. But certain things have gotten cheaper while others have gotten more expensive, and which is which can tell us a lot.
Economy
The Business Case For Better Representation On Screen
"Wonder Woman" and "Black Panther" were hits. Is Hollywood listening?
Auto Industry Healthy Enough To Withstand Next Downturn, Analysts Say
U.S. auto sales are expected to decline for the second year in a row. But analysts say the industry is relatively healthy as consumers flock to higher-profit SUVs and trucks.
Some Disneyland Employees Struggle To Pay For Food, Shelter, Survey Finds
More than two-thirds of unionized workers at Disneyland in California tell surveyors that they are food insecure at the place advertised as the "happiest place on earth."
More Band For Your Buck
To understand the Trump administration's approach to trade tariffs, look no further than the humble rubber band.
Though Prices Aren't As High As Before, West Texas Enjoys Oil Revival
The U.S. is on track to surpass Saudi Arabia and Russia next year to become the world's biggest oil producer — pumping out more crude than at its peak nearly half a century ago.
Lawmakers Agree On Paid Family Leave, But Not The Details
Passage of paid family leave laws in states like Washington is spurring federal lawmakers from both parties to float their own proposals, but so far support is not bridging party lines.
New Fed Chief Sees Interest Rates Continuing To Rise As Economy Strengthens
The central bank remains on track to boost rates gradually, Jerome Powell told Congress on Tuesday in his first testimony as Fed chairman. He said he has seen the economy picking up since December.
Education Department Wants To Protect Student Loan Debt Collectors
The Trump administration is considering a policy change to prevent states from making tough demands of companies that collect student loan debt, according to an internal document obtained by NPR.
Pregnancy Rate Might Predict Future Recessions, Researchers Suggest
Conventional wisdom holds that fertility rates go down in response to an economic downturn. But a new study found that conception rates begin to drop before a recession actually begins.