Once upon a time, there was department store chain called Kmart. Now, the bargain retailer is closing its last full-scale store in the lower 48. Kmart has struggled for years in the shadow of its two biggest imitators: Target and Walmart. Also on the show: OpenAI is looking to expand its artificial intelligence data centers. Plus, is this especially tense presidential campaign eating away at the economy?


We’re now just days from a potential strike by dockworkers that would stretch from the Gulf of Mexico on up the East Coast. Oct. 1 is the deadline for an agreement between ports and the union representing about 45,000 dockworkers. What sort of ripple effects might such a strike have? Plus, Congress has approved a temporary spending bill to keep the government open — for another few months.


Are we in for another logistics nightmare?

Last week, refinance applications were up 20% from a week earlier. The number of people who could benefit from refinancing — especially those who took out mortgages with interest rates in the high 6% to 7% range — has been growing over the last few weeks, but not everyone is making the jump. Plus, OpenAI looks to switch from a nonprofit to for-profit entity, and buy now, pay later is expected to surge this year.


It’s refinance time for many homeowners

From the BBC World Service: This week, Chinas has really been trying to get its economy back on track. Today, China’s leaders has rolled out additional measures to shore up its struggling economy, including reforms to banking, business and property, as well as more help for the poor. We’ll hear more. Plus, Pakistan has agreed to a $7 billion funding deal with the International Monetary Fund.


China has even more plans to revive its economy

Attention Kmart shoppers: It’s time to say goodbye

That is the question facing many companies, especially as we lead up to the contentious 2024 election. Today, we’ll hear how about some companies responded — from opting to ban political talk in the workplace and ones that emailed customers with telling them how to vote — as well as their thorny results. First, we’ll learn what we can glean from key economic speeches from former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.


To be political or not to be political?

From the BBC World Service: Prisons in Britain are grappling with overcrowding, staff shortages and funding cuts — all of which are making a bad situation worse. The government has started to release prisoners early to reduce pressure on the system. Meanwhile, talks are kicking off today between trade unions and Volkswagen on proposed cuts to its workforce in Germany. And, there are calls for more private business investment in India.


Britain’s prisons are at a breaking point

Those who have been waiting patiently for the housing market to cool down may have to wait even longer for lower prices. Data released today indicates that there’s been no reprieve for prospective homebuyers, as prices have stayed stubbornly high despite a recent rate cut by the Fed. Dr. David Kelly of JPMorgan Global Funds walks us through the report. China’s economy is looking to receive a boost after policymakers passed the largest economic stimulus package since the pandemic to buoy stagnating growth. Retailers are preparing for the holiday season by beginning to hire thousands of seasonal workers. And, why some parents are turning to a Barbie-theme “dumb” phone as a potential first device for their kids.


It’s a tough environment for home-buying, even after a rate cut

The art market is in somewhat of a funk right now. Auction houses are reporting that demand for new pieces of art has dipped recently, partly due to external conditions like higher interest rates. While the downturn upends years of strong sales, art critic Blake Gopnik argues that a correction may ultimately benefit the long-run fortunes of artists. And, a look inside the Justice Department’s reported case against Visa over monopoly claims in the debit card market.


Why a downturn could be healthy for the art market

From the BBC World Service: Shein, a Chinese fashion giant, has come under fire over claims the company is dodging UK taxes. A look at why some want the government to step in. The Chinese government is stepping up efforts to revive its slowing economy. Everton Football Club, one of England’s top football teams, is set for a takeover by an American investment group. And a new – and very pink – Barbie-branded phone is hitting the U.S. market.


Chinese fashion giant Shein accused of tax dodging

Kamala Harris is promising to release new details this week about economic policies she would pursue if elected president. But behind closed doors, she’s facing pressure to loosen the Biden administration’s crackdown on corporate consolidation. The foot soldier in that effort has been Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, and some big-money Democratic donors have called for her replacement. Also: CFO gloom, and housing inventory’s impact on home prices.


Lina Khan’s case for staying on

Would it surprise you to learn that a quarter of Americans say that they’ve avoided a work colleague due to differing political views? Today, as part of our Office Politics series, we’re joined by Sean Westwood, director of Dartmouth’s Polarization Research Lab, to do the numbers on polarization’s impact on the workplace. Then, Congressional negotiators reached a bipartisan deal over the weekend to avoid a government shutdown in a week.


What partisan divides are doing to our workplaces

From the BBC World Service: Anura Kumara Dissanayake has been sworn into office in Sri Lanka, promising “clean” politics as the country recovers from one of its worst-ever economic crises. We hear more. Then, as cross-border clashes continue in the Hezbollah-Israel conflict, we ask how businesses in the affected regions of Lebanon are grappling. Also on the program: a Tamagotchi store in the U.K. and a WTO challenge to China’s EU dairy product investigation.


Sri Lanka swears in new president

This September marks 40 years since the birth of the generic drug industry in the United States. They saved Americans nearly $450 billion last year alone. But all is not well in the industry — big players are leaving, and drug shortages are common. Will we still be able to depend on affordable, high-quality generics in the future? Also: new rules on bank mergers, and a disagreement between the stock market and bond market.


The history — and shaky future — of the generic drug market

We’re digging into Office Politics, our series in which we talk to companies that use their brands to push policies and candidates, as well as organizations that try to dial down the political temperature. Today: When a business shows support or opposition to a particular side of a partisan issue, what does it mean for the consumers who don’t agree? But first: unpacking a credit card interest rate cap proposed by Donald Trump.


When companies take a political stand

From the BBC World Service: The killing of a Japanese schoolboy in the Chinese city of Shenzhen has sparked anxiety among Japanese expats living in China, with top firms warning their workers to be vigilant. Plus, mass tourism in parts of Europe has sparked protests this summer, but one small Mediterranean country is enthusiastically embracing those on vacation. And heavy rock band Iron Maiden announce a 50th anniversary world tour.


Killing shakes Japanese community in China

Earlier this week we explored the offshore financial system, where foreign companies and wealthy individuals can stash their wealth under especially favorable financial conditions. Today, we’re hearing about ways to discourage the ultra wealthy from hiding their cash offshore. Turns out good ol’ shame may hold some answers. But first, we examine how rate cuts might affect the housing market. Plus, who’s going to foot the bill for the Francis Scott Key Bridge?


Can shame deter the ultra wealthy from using offshore accounts?

Now that the Federal Reserve has started to cut interest rates, are we headed back to a world of cheap money? This morning, we’ll unpack what yesterday’s rate cut means for car loans, personal loans, credit cards, mortgages and more. Plus, there’s a huge difference that just half a penny can make. We’ll examine a change coming to stock trades. Also on the show: How do you define a supermarket?


Rates are on their way down. What’s that mean for you?

From the BBC World Service: As questions are being asked about how walkie talkies and pagers were detonated in Lebanon, an action which killed at least 30 people and injured thousands, two manufacturers — Japan’s Icom and Taiwan’s Gold Apollo — have denied any link to the deadly blasts. We’ll dig in. Also: Why has a Chinese milk tea company been forced to apologize over a social media video?


Companies deny making devices that detonated in Lebanon

We learned this week that retail sales rose in August. A big part of that was thanks to online shopping, which was up almost 8% from last year. And retailers think e-commerce has even more room to grow. Plus, it’s a big day for the direction of the economy. And later, we’ll hear about corporate executives’ thoughts on the economy, artificial intelligence and the return-to-the-office push.


How online shopping is saving the economy

Today, the Federal Reserve will announce what it will do with the interest rates that steer the economy. It’ll cut them — that’s almost certain, but the question is how aggressively. The Fed is independent. Fed Chairs generally refuse to get dragged into politics, though their decisions can be politicized. We’ll look at the politics of rate decisions. Then, we’ll examine why Patagonia encourages its employees to get political.


What Fed rate decisions look like during election years

From the BBC World Service: Norway’s electric vehicle policies appear to be paying off. There, nine out of 10 new cars sold is electric. The Nordic nation wants to be the first country to stop selling gas and diesel-engine vehicles. Also on the show: Sri Lankans head to the polls this weekend, two years on from the economic crisis that left the country in turmoil.


In Norway, EVs overtake gas-powered cars

Every year, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation updates progress on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals — how the world is doing on lifting people from poverty, ensuring gender equality, and improving health, sanitation and more. Today, we’re joined by Bill Gates to hear about stalling progress on public health initiatives, as well as opportunities for greater investment. Plus, what we can expect from the Federal Reserve tomorrow?


Bill Gates on addressing AI and global malnutrition

Later this morning, we’ll to get an update on how much inventory businesses built up in July, courtesy of the Census Bureau. Meanwhile, the Logistics Managers’ Index found that inventory levels picked up in August after contracting throughout the summer, ahead of this year’s holiday shopping season. It appears to be a return to just-in-time inventory for companies. And later: the secretive and scandalous world of offshore finance.


Retailers try to get just enough on the shelves for the holidays

From the BBC World Service: A comprehensive study has found goods imports and exports between the United Kingdom and European Union have slumped since Brexit, with red tape continuing to tie up British businesses. The value of U.K. goods exported to the EU fell by 27%. We dig in. Also on the program: Farmers in Malawi are looking for ways to use harvests damaged by extreme weather, such as turning bananas into wine.


Economists say Brexit bureaucracy is hitting UK-EU goods trade — and is getting worse

Retail sales data out Tuesday morning will offer a peek into how consumers are doing right now. As we inch closer to the holiday shopping season, a new forecast from consulting firm Deloitte predicts that holiday spending is likely to grow this year — but not quite as much as in the recent past. We’ll discuss. Also: backlash to digital nomads, and interest rate decisions this week in the U.S., U.K, and Japan.


How are you doing, consumer?

Later today, TikTok and U.S. government lawyers will face off at the U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. It’s a crucial hearing that will help determine the fate of the video-sharing app in the United States, which could potentially be banned over national security concerns. Then, to kick off our “Office Politics” series examining how companies are responding to polarization, we’ll hear from Sticker Mule’s CEO about endorsing Trump and denouncing political divisiveness.


A new type of TikTok dance — one in court

From the BBC World Service: A hearing looking into the English club Manchester City’s alleged breaking of the Premier League’s financial rules is underway. The outcome could have enormous ramifications for the Premier League as a whole. Plus, Shanghai — China’s financial hub — has been hit by its worst typhoon in 70 years. And it’s becoming increasingly popular to travel while working remotely, but in some cities, there’s been a backlash against so-called “digital nomads.”


Soccer’s “trial of the century” starts

China’s top legislature has approved a plan to raise the retirement age as the country faces an aging workforce. It’s the first adjustment in decades, one that many economists say is long overdue — but it’s not universally popular. Plus, the current economic snapshot as the Fed prepares for a crucial interest rate decision. And later, is canned spaghetti carbonara a delicious innovation from Heinz or, as some critics call it, an abomination?


China ups its retirement age

Some 14 million people in the South have been under flood watches from Francine, which made landfall in Louisiana as a Category 2 hurricane on Wednesday. The slow-moving storm is dumping huge amounts of rain, posing major flooding risks. Yet only 6% of homeowners nationwide have flood insurance. Plus, more than 30,000 Boeing workers have walked off the job, and roughly 43 million Americans lived in poverty last year.


As Hurricane Francine brings floodwaters, are homeowners in its path covered?

From the BBC World Service: Boeing factory workers have voted to go on strike, a move which may threaten the delivery of some aircrafts and delay the production of some planes for the aerospace company. Then, the United Kingdom government is moving to ban junk food ads on television before 9 p.m. Also in the U.K.: Heinz launches spaghetti carbonara in a can, much to the horror of many Italians.


Boeing workers vote to strike

Boeing and the union representing 33,000 of its workers reached a tentative labor deal over the weekend. Now, the rank and file appear ready to reject that deal, with a vote today. Many workers have been expressing frustration this week over the contract’s terms and could vote to go on strike at midnight. Also on the program: A look at women’s long-fought battle to carve out a seat for themselves on Wall Street.


Unionized Boeing workers could strike tonight

According to settlement tracking group Peace Now, the Israeli government has seized more Palestinian land for settlements in the West Bank this year than at any time in the last three decades. Now, some synagogues in the U.S. and Canada are being criticized — and picketed — for hosting real-estate fairs that pitch property for sale in Israel and the Occupied Territories to North American Jews. We’ll learn more. But first, we’ll look at why the gender pay gap is widening.


Land seizures and land sales

From the BBC World Service: A European consumer rights group has lodged a formal complaint accusing game developers behind popular titles like Fortnite and Minecraft of tricking players into spending more cash than they might realize. Then, we travel to Italy, where the shipyards of Monfalcone have attracted workers from Bangladesh. But there are tensions with locals. Earlier this year, the town’s mayor even banned cricket, an extremely popular sport popular in Bangladesh.


Do video games mislead players when it comes to in-game spending?

The first — and potentially only — presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump is officially in the books. Economic issues took up plenty of air time. We’ll unpack how markets appear to be digesting both candidates’ performances and policies. Plus, fresh Labor Department data shows that annual inflation cooled in August to 2.5% — the lowest rate since February 2021. How might Fed officials respond?


How are markets responding to last night’s debate?

Over the last decade, nearly 50 million have been on an ACA plan at some point — that’s one in seven Americans. Plus, New York Fashion Week comes to a close today. It featured a pop-up shop from none other than Walmart and is part of the superstore’s attempt to lean into fashion. But first, the economy played a starring role in last night’s presidential debate. We’ll discuss.


Affordable Care Act enrollment hits all-time high at 21 million people

From the BBC World Service: Like the U.S., the European Union recently slapped import duties on Chinese electric vehicles. It says it’s protecting European automakers from unfair competition, but not everyone — such as Spain’s prime minister and Belgian firm Umicore — agrees. Then, Kenya’s main airport is facing major disruption after workers staged a go-slow protest over a proposed 30-year lease deal with the Indian conglomerate, the Adani Group.


Taxing times for China’s electric vehicle makers

Yesterday, we talked about surveys of farmers, which showed a growing economic pessimism in that sector. Today, survey data from the National Federation of Independent Business show a decline in optimism among small businesses generally in August. So what exactly is behind the souring mood among investors, consumers and others? We’ll discuss. Also this morning’s program: a closer look at the business of manifesting.


The economic mood is cooling

The restaurant industry has been through a lot in recent years — hemorrhaging workers during the pandemic and struggling to bring them back; grappling with inflation that’s up and foot traffic that’s down. Then, there’s the transformation of tipping. We’ll check in on some of the latest trends impacting restaurants. Then, U.S. tech giants owe billions in taxes and fines to Europe, and we’ll examine misinformation about illegal voting by non-citizens.


How inflation has transformed our dining and tipping habits

From the BBC World Service: Two long-running legal cases concluded in Europe today — a $14 billion tax dispute for Apple and a $2.6 billion antitrust fine for Google. Both companies lost out. We’ll hear about the latest developments Plus, do you believe you can get what you want through positive thinking? If so, you may be part of the increasingly valuable manifesting movement.


A bad day for tech giants in Europe

Purdue’s Farmer Sentiment Index hit an 8-year low in August, and half of agricultural economists surveyed by the University of Missouri last month say the farm economy is in a recession. Input and borrowing costs are still high, while prices for commodities have been trending down. We’ll unpack, but first will mull how likely a government shutdown is before the election. And, will it be another rough week for markets?


Why farmers are feeling so down

After a rough year, Boeing was facing a possible strike to add to its list of problems. But no longer. The aerospace company has reached a tentative deal with its largest labor union, with the hopes of averting a strike. We’ll hear more. Plus, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are set to square off in their first debate tomorrow evening. We’ll do some math on their fiscal proposals.


Boeing reaches a deal

From the BBC World Service: Afghanistan is facing a food crisis. Some 3.2 million children under the age of 5 are malnourished, and health services do not have the resources to cope. Plus, South Korea is removing pictures of soldiers from the armed forces communications network amid concerns over sexually explicit deepfake manipulation. Then, some runners are willing to pay others to notch up an impressive time on the fitness app, Strava.


Afghan children are paying the price of an economic crisis

Former President Donald Trump says he’ll establish a government efficiency commission if re-elected in November, and it would be headed by Elon Musk. Musk’s various ventures are regulated by federal agencies, which are currently investigating several of his companies. We’ll hear more. Plus, the NFL goes global, and traders lean toward a half-point rate cut this month.


Trump, Musk and a proposed government efficiency commission

Federal Reserve independence has come into the spotlight recently, with former President Donald Trump indicating he thinks the president should have some influence in the Fed’s actions. Today, we wind the clock back to when exactly that happened: In 1971, President Richard Nixon devised a scheme to sway then-Federal Reserve Chair Arthur Burns — and the direction of the U.S. economy — in the run-up to reelection. But first: Hiring was weaker than expected in August.


When a president swayed the decisions of the Federal Reserve

From the BBC World Service: It’s the world’s largest convenience chain, with 85,000 stores — and Seven &amp; i Holdings said the $40 billion takeover bid for 7-Eleven from rival Alimentation Couche-Tard “grossly undervalues” the business. We’ll hear the latest on why the deal seems to be falling apart. Also on this morning’s show: How do you put a value on Banksy’s street art to local neighborhoods?


7-Eleven owner rejects Canadian takeover

Private payroll company ADP reports that 99,000 jobs were added to the economy in August, less than in July. This continual cooling in demand for workers can be considered a good thing — as long as we don’t go through the ice. But first, Nordstrom’s department stores could go private. Plus: what we know about how former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris want to change our tax bills.


The ice is thinning, economically speaking

As divisive as politics can be, especially this election season, you can actually find some small areas of common ground. That currently includes some limited bipartisan focus on policies that aim to support families raising children. Today, we’ll look at some of the latest research regarding support for care proposals. Also on the show: the economy as an Impressionist painting and trends in the subscription economy.


In politics, a shared emphasis on the care economy

From the BBC World Service: China’s President Xi Jinping has announced almost $51 billion in new funding for the continent — in projects including infrastructure and clean energy, with a promise to create a million jobs. But there are warnings about the debt burden facing some countries. Also: An inquiry into an apartment block fire in the United Kingdom is heavily critical of cladding manufacturers, successive governments and regulators.


China expands its Africa investment

A new Washington Post investigation examines a program in which workers with disabilities are employed for much less than minimum wage — sometimes less than a dollar an hour. It’s legally sanctioned and aimed at training people with disabilities to work and eventually go on to higher-paying jobs. But it doesn’t always work out that way. Plus, entrepreneurs are getting their turn in the political spotlight, and markets respond to a weak manufacturing report.


A frank conversation about the subminimum wage

AI chipmaking company Nvidia lost $279 billion in market value yesterday, and its shares kept falling in after-hours trading overnight. Despite reports of an escalating Department of Justice antitrust probe, the stock’s decline centers more on questions around the future of artificial intelligence. We hear more. We also explore the shifting geography of U.S. oil production and learn how gaps in USDA food programs are being filled by tribal governments.


The bigger they are, the harder they fall

From the BBC World Service: Financial markets in Asia and the U.S. have tumbled with investor concerns that the U.S. economy could be headed toward recession. Then, in Mexico, Congress is expected to pass judicial reforms that have prompted judges and court staff protests. And in an attempt to address a falling birth rate, the government in South Korea plans to bring in domestic workers from the Philippines to support families.


Global markets take a tumble

There are fundamental challenges facing global supply chains today: the rise of protectionism, competition with China and more. Like a crystal ball, we can look to the shipping industry to understand how these are unfolding. Germany-based DHL Group is one of the world’s largest logistics and shipping businesses, and the company’s CEO recently spoke in an exclusive interview to our Marketplace colleague, the BBC’s Leanna Byrne. Also: a lookahead at this week’s economic data.


Fortune tellers have crystal balls. Economists have the shipping industry.

Lots of folks had Labor Day barbecues this past weekend, but plenty spent it moving too. It was a big move-in weekend for renters. And while rent prices have been moderating, they’re still way higher than they were a few years ago. We’ll hear more. But first: why so many hotel workers are going on strike and how the FAA is looking to curb a shortage of air traffic controllers.


Even as rent growth cools, sticker shock lingers

From the BBC World Service: The trial of the former chief executive of Volkswagen, Martin Winterkorn, is getting under way in Germany over his role in a major diesel emissions scandal. We’ll rehash the controversy and hear the latest. And in an exclusive interview, the chief executive of logistics group DHL warns about the challenges facing global trade and the German economy, which is the largest in Europe.


Former VW boss faces “dieselgate” trial

From the BBC World Service: Activists are blocking roads across Israel during a general strike called to demand the government agree to a ceasefire deal in Gaza to secure the release of the remaining hostages. Plus, a look at a global scam tricking foreign students in Britain into paying tens of thousands of dollars for worthless work visa documents. And, there is a new way of making the world’s favorite indulgence — chocolate.


Israel faces labor strike over Gaza hostages

Labor Day weekend is usually a hectic travel weekend, but this year is set to break records as people travel across the country to celebrate the holiday. We look at the economic drivers of what’s projected to be a very busy few days at airports, highways, and train stations nationwide. Plus, a look at a new chocolate production technique promising to boost the fortunes of producers and consumers of the much-loved treat.


Once again, Labor Day travel is expected to break records

Since the beginning of labor unions and collective action in the workplace, songs have served as a way to build camaraderie and communicate complaints between workers. As part of our “Econ Extra Credit” series, we delve into the storied history of the humble work hymn and how songs continue to shape organized labor efforts today. Plus, a look at how monetary policymakers at the Fed might analyze upcoming jobs numbers as they consider a potential rate cut.


Organized labor’s time-tested glue: work songs

Interest rates in America are guided by a key inflation reading released today, and it came in line with expectations, showing year-over-year inflation was pretty tame. We chat with FHN Financial Chief Economist Christopher Low about how to unpack recent inflation data and what it says about a potential Fed rate cut. Also on the show: the potential economic boon provided by a reunion of the British band Oasis.


As a rate cut looms, can the Fed stick the landing?

The Paralympic Games are now underway in Paris, and a record number of broadcasters around the world will be covering this year’s events, including para swimming, wheelchair rugby and tennis. NBC — the games’ U.S. broadcast partner — reported that Paralympic ad sales are up 60% over the Tokyo games in 2021. Also on the show: the presidential candidates on economic policy and a big moving day in Boston.


Investment in the Paralympic Games is growing

From the BBC World Service: A dispute over local laws in Brazil could mean that the X platform is blocked in the country. And with the announcement that the British band Oasis is reforming, we look at the figures behind the hype.


Social media platform X could be blocked in Brazil

Members of Congress are calling on the Agriculture Department to fix supply chain problems. Several groups of lawmakers are saying some tribes and food banks that rely on supplies from USDA distribution programs are reporting empty shelves because promised food deliveries never came. Also, a growing minority of Americans worry curbing climate change will hurt the economy, and Singapore’s government is pushing older workers to keep working.


Snags in the food supply chain are becoming a “dire situation”

Latinas’ contribution to the U.S. economy grew more than 50% between 2010 and 2021. In 2021, it totaled $1.3 trillion, new data shows. But despite their economic rise, Latina workers are still overrepresented in certain low-wage jobs. We’ll hear more. But first, Nvidia reported superb results, but that still disappointed some on Wall Street. And we’ll learn the latest developments in the arrest of Telegram’s Pavel Durov.


Latina women are helping drive the economy

From the BBC World Service: In Argentina, police have clashed with demonstrating senior citizens in the capital, Buenos Aires. The protesters are angry that President Javier Milei is to veto a pension increase as part of his austerity drive. Plus, the founder and boss of Telegram has been banned from leaving France . And in Singapore, we look at how an aging population is affecting the workforce.


Argentine retirees protest over pensions

This morning, the U.S. surgeon general issued a public health advisory regarding the mental health of parents. Vivek Murthy says parents are dealing with significant stresses that prior generations didn’t have to deal with, and they need more support from the government and their employers. Plus, dude, we’re getting the band back together! A look at at the economics behind why Oasis is going on a reunion tour.


The parents are not alright, surgeon general says

The stock for semiconductor chipmaker Nvidia has skyrocketed with the growth of generative artificial intelligence like ChatGPT. But investors have noticed that the actual profits from AI have tended to lag the hype. Today, Nvidia will release its profits and we’ll learn how much of this underlying hardware AI companies are still buying. And later: how Aug. 28 keeps showing up at turning points in the Civil Rights Movement.


Will it be “chip, chip, hooray” later today?

From the BBC World Service: Sir Keir Starmer is meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It’s the start of a landmark post-Brexit visit to Berlin, where the aim is to reset the United Kingdom’s relationship with Germany and the broader European Union. Also on the show: halted Toyota production in Japan, an oil leak in the Red Sea and a U.K.-based company that sees value in bringing onboard older workers.


U.K.’s prime minister makes landmark post-Brexit visit to Berlin

A federal judge in Oregon will continue hearing arguments about whether to pause efforts to merge the grocery chains Albertsons and Kroger in a nearly $25 billion deal. The Federal Trade Commission believes prices would go up and consumers would lose. We’ll hear more. Plus, Canada announces sweeping tariffs on Chinese EVs, San Fransisco Fed President Mary Daly chats about rate cuts, and businesses cater to India’s growing elderly population.


The Albertsons-Kroger deal has its day in court

You may have heard the phrase “be cool, stay in school” before. That’s a bit hard when it’s this hot out though. More than 10,000 schools nationwide lack air conditioning, according to the Center for Climate Integrity. Installing ACs is costly — but so is heat’s impact on student learning. Also on the program: We’ll look at the growing push to erase medical debt, a burden impacting millions of Americans.


It’s back-to-school season … and near triple-digit temps in some places

From the BBC World Service: Following the lead of the U.S. and the European Union, Canada says it will impose a 100% tariff on imports of Chinese electric vehicles and a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum from China. Plus, it’s estimated that there will be 350 million adults over 60 in India by 2050; so it’s no surprise that companies are increasingly looking to cash in on the silver economy’s substantial spending power.


Canada to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese EVs

Over the weekend, French authorities arrested the 39-year-old founder of the messaging app Telegram. This reportedly has to do with a wide-ranging investigation into illegal activity on the app. But some are decrying the arrest as a free speech violation – saying it threatens the very essence of what makes Telegram useful. We dig in. Plus, an eco-friendly concert and a look at how bond markets are responding to signals of interest rate cuts.


Telegram, free speech and illegal activities

Last week’s jobless numbers revealed that more than 1.8 million people were drawing unemployment. Among the irks for would-be workers? A frustrating uptick in the number of “ghost jobs,” or postings that stay up on jobs sites for months on end without a hire. Also on the show: a moment of clarity on the future of interest rates and the sunsetting of a free COVID-19 vaccine program for uninsured adults.


More jobseekers are being haunted by “ghost jobs”

From the BBC World Service: Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of messaging platform Telegram, was arrested in France for allowing a wide range of crimes to take place on the platform due to insufficient moderation. Then, a “right to disconnect” law comes into force in Australia. We’ll hear how employees are feeling about the change. Plus, English band Massive Attack performed in Bristol — without the use of diesel generators.


Telegram founder arrested in Paris

Cryptocurrency companies have been pumping lots of money into 2024 federal elections — more than $119 million so far, or almost half of corporate money given during elections this year, according to consumer advocacy group Public Citizen. Also on the show: The Democratic National Convention wraps up with an emphasis on the middle class, and Copenhagen’s underground tunnel network aims to help the city deal with the worst of the climate crisis.


Crypto firms get spendy and political

Vice President Kamala Harris closed the Democratic National Convention last night with an acceptance speech that broadly laid out her priorities. On the dollars and cents side of things, she highlighted protecting Social Security and Medicare, addressing the housing shortage in this country and a tax cut for middle-income households. Plus, arbitration agreements have become increasingly more common buried in the terms and conditions for various apps and services.


Kamala Harris outlines her economic agenda

From the BBC World Service: The visit comes not long after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, which didn’t go over well with some European leaders. Then, Canada’s government has ordered employers and rail unions involved in a huge dispute to take part in arbitration. And the Danish capital Copenhagen is trying to prepare the city for the future dangers of extreme weather.


India’s prime minister visits Ukraine

The economy and the higher cost of living due to inflation are important factors shaping this election. Tonight, when Vice President Kamala Harris delivers her primetime acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention, many viewers will be listening for what she plans to do to lessen the strain on their pocketbooks. We’ll hear more. Then, we’ll talk with a content creator attending the DNC and hear some positive news on productivity.


Inflation and the presidential race

The U.S. economy added 800,000 fewer jobs than originally thought between the first quarter of last year and this year, according to updated data from the Labor Department. It’s no crisis, but it does mean the labor market has been cooling faster than expected. It’s yet another reason people will be dissecting every signal they can from the Federal Reserve on when it might cut interest rates. Also, startups are increasingly a target for spies.


The Fed’s steering the economy. When will it change course?

From the BBC World Service: British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch’s body has been recovered after a luxury yacht sank off the coast of Sicily on Monday morning. Then, Canada’s rail freight transport network is coming to a halt over a job contracts. And Australia is in the grip of a housing crisis due to soaring rents and property prices. It’s estimated that more than 120,000 people are now homeless.


One of the U.K.’s most high-profile tech entrepreneurs confirmed dead

A lot of Chicagoland restaurants were hoping for a shot in the arm courtesy of the Democratic National Convention this week. But so far, that hasn’t seemed to be the case for some businesses. We hear more. Then: a look at why Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s word choice in Jackson Hole will be so closely scrutinized. And later, older workers with disabilities have made gains thanks to remote work.


A big convention should bring big business … right?

Noncompete agreements, where your employer has you sign a contract promising you won’t work for a competitor in the future, were originally used to protect intellectual property but now are so widespread that they can apply to fast food workers. The Federal Trade Commission wanted to ban noncompetes but a federal judge in Texas has blocked the ban. Also: Chicago’s economic landscape during the DNC and greater access to work permits for undocumented immigrants.


The legal fight over noncompete agreements

From the BBC World Service: First on the program, Shein is suing Temu for copyright infringement. The court case comes as Shein itself fends off similar allegations from a host of brands and independent artists. Then, Australia has just approved plans for the world’s largest solar plant. And later, the search for six people missing after a luxury yacht sank off the coast of Sicily is now in its third day.


It’s Shein versus Temu in court

Former President Barack Obama is set to speak tonight at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The theme today: “A Bold Vision for America’s Future.” Part of that vision? The U.S. economy. President Joe Biden spoke at the convention last night, highlighting his administration’s economic policies. Former President Donald Trump was also talking about the economy on the campaign trail. We’ll discuss. Then, the Department of Transportation wants the nation’s infrastructure to get a tech upgrade.


Dueling economics on the campaign trail

President Joe Biden’s victory lap at the Democratic National Convention last night included a lot of mentions of how far the economy has come from the depths of pandemic lockdowns. While there’s a lot to celebrate, the nation’s mayors have a message for convention-goers: Do more to address housing affordability. Plus, consumers are waiting for a rate cut to make big financial decisions, and AI is changing how we predict the weather.


The economic issues bubbling up on the floor of the DNC

From the BBC World Service: Morgan Stanley International bank chairman Jonathan Bloomer and British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch are among the six still missing after a yacht sunk in bad weather in Sicily on Monday. One body has been recovered. We’re hear the latest on the incident and learn more about those missing. And later, a Scottish horror film has finally been released — 17 years after filming first got under way.


U.K. tech tycoon and Morgan Stanley boss among those missing in yacht disaster

Picture this: Lush greenery, the picturesque Tetons and Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell in a cowboy hat. (Maybe.) This week, roughly 120 academics, Fed policy makers and journalists are descending on Wyoming for the annual Jackson Hole Symposium. We’ll hear more about the event combining mountain hikes and monetary policy. But first, inflation remains a raw nerve as Vice President Kamala Harris begins to outline her economic policy goals.


The hottest invite in American economics

The Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago today. While Democrats will be touting the Biden administration’s accomplishments, Kamala Harris has to articulate a clear and distinguishable economic message to help sway voters — one that says the next four years will be better for their pocketbooks than the last. Plus, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is cracking down on homeless encampments. Where are all those people going to go?


Kamala Harris to make her economic case at the DNC

From the BBC World Service: The owner of convenience store giant 7-Eleven has received a takeover offer from Canadian rival Alimentation Couche-Tard, which runs the Circle K chain. Then, long COVID has cost Australia’s economy over an estimated $6 billion, with 100 million working hours lost in 2022 alone. Then, Indonesia has inaugurated its new — and partially built — capital city of Nusantara, as part of an ambitious $30 billion plan.


7-Eleven gets takeover offer

A landmark federal staffing mandate has prompted fierce disagreement between resident advocates and the nursing home industry. Nursing home owners describe the minimums as extreme, warning they could force some facilities out of business. Though advocates welcomed the new mandate, they say it’s more lenient than ideal. We hear about this fierce — and personal — debate. Plus: a major Social Security number data breach and parsing more retail sales data.


The embroiled battle over nursing home staffing minimums

Some big changes to the real estate market are on the way this weekend. Under a settlement reached earlier this year, the National Association of Realtors is changing rules that determine how real estate agents make their money. Buyers and sellers, this matters to you. Then, a new McKinsey Global Institute report finds it’ll take sweeping transformation to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.


Starting tomorrow, a very different way of buying or selling homes

From the BBC World Service: Bavarian Nordic — the manufacturer of the only mpox vaccine — wants to extend the shot’s license in Europe to include those ages 12 to 17, as a more deadly version of the virus spreads largely through young children in Africa. Also on the program: Protests in response to the violent rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata has reignited talks of women’s workplace safety.


Vaccine-maker asks EU to extend mpox shot license to adolescents

Shoppers were shopping more energetically than expected in July, with retail sales up 1%. This is boosting stocks but making players in the bond market fret that they might not get as many interest rate cuts this year with the U.S. economy still showing such strength. We’ll discuss at the top of show. Also on the program: a look at banned fake reviews and what happens when a Chinese EV-maker comes to Turkey.


A “discerning but not defeated” consumer

This week, the Justice Department is reportedly considering asking for a break up of Google after the company was deemed an illegal monopoly. We’ll describe how that may pan out and how it could potentially help smaller search engines. But first, the Biden administration is expected to unveil the results of Medicare’s first price negotiations with drug companies today. And later: What do vet clinics and Skittles have in common?


What might a Justice Department break-up of Google look like?

From the BBC World Service: China’s biggest electric carmaker, BYD, is planning a $1 billion factory in Turkey, which will allow it to avoid new tariffs imposed by Europe on Chinese exporters. We hear from the where the factory will be built. Then, Germany issues an arrest warrant linked to explosions that hit the subsea pipeline carrying Russian gas to Europe. Plus, North Korea is partially reopening to foreign tourists.


The Chinese carmaker taking on European rivals in their own backyard

Starbucks has hired Brian Niccol to become its new CEO following a slump in the company’s sales in Q3. Niccol took over Chipotle in 2018, and Chipotle’s stock price has shot up 700% under his tenure. Before that, Niccol led a brand revamp at Taco Bell. We’ll hear more. Then, consumer inflation is easing toward the Federal Reserve’s target, and Montreal makes a bet on nightlife by permitting all-night drinking.


Starbucks bets on a darling of the fast food world

Employers, recruiters and job candidates are increasingly turning to generative AI to help with the often tedious hiring process. This has led to an influx of applications for many job postings. It’s a trend that’s added efficiency — and another layer of complexity — to the jobs marketplace. Also: a look at sales of PCs with integrated AI. And the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is cracking down on contract for deed home sales.


When AI becomes an ever-growing part of the hiring process

From the BBC World Service: Chinese electric vehicle maker Zeekr says it’s come up with the world’s fastest-charging battery, which can be replenished in 10 minutes. Plus, there’s further backlash against over-tourism in Spain, where one city is planning to cut water supplies to illegal short term rentals. And is Montreal about to join the ranks of cities that never sleep? It’s planning special 24-hour zones to help boost its economy.


The race for the fastest-charging EV batteries

Elon Musk made news yesterday during his conversation with former President Donald Trump, which live-streamed on X. In it, Musk advocated for reducing federal government spending and reducing deficits as a way of fighting inflation, and he angled for a role in the administration if Trump wins. Plus, what would it take to see an emergency interest rate cut? Then, A generally strong job market has led to economic improvements for people without higher levels of education.


On that two-hour convo between Trump and Musk

An analysis from The Economist looks at people who feel “left behind” in America — those who got the short end of globalization and deindustrialization, people who took the biggest hits in recent decades from not having advanced education — and shows that that group has been seeing economic improvement under the Trump and Biden administrations. Plus, Harris and Trump look to nix federal taxes on tips, and consumers expect inflation to become less of a problem.


“Left behind” Rust Belt workers have seen gains in recent years

From the BBC World Service: One person has died and thousands of homes and businesses have been evacuated due to the fires close to Athens, all during the country’s peak tourist season. The fire started some 20 miles away from the capital. We’ll hear about the latest developments.. Also, Western airlines are dropping routes to China. Why?


Wildfires spread on the outskirts of Greece’s capital

A recent survey shows a slightly larger percentage of Americans trust Vice President Kamala Harris to handle the economy over former President Donald Trump. It’s the first time the poll has found the Democratic nominee leading Trump on economic issues this year. We’ll dig in. Then, what are forecasters expecting from this week’s inflation readings? And we’ll also hear about temp gigs and the youth unemployment rate.


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