Apr 1, 2022

More competition could help with inflation. How would that work?

Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

Economists say inflation is being driven by a number of factors, from supply chain disruptions to higher wages. But what about competition? In the food industry, restaurants that face more industry competition aren't able to raise prices as much as food-at-home services. We spoke to Trevon Logan, a professor of economics at Ohio State University who helps us break down how a lack of competition in some markets could be contributing to rising prices.

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Economic Pulse

Another cure for inflation? Making markets more competitive.

by David Brancaccio and Jarrett Dang

Apr 1, 2022

Companies facing few competitors can hike prices more easily than those in competitive markets.

"I like to say that we're not doing something new, we're doing something that people have done for thousands of years, which is use everything that's grown and not throw it out," says Anna Hammond, founder of Matriark Foods.

Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

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Higher mortgage rates could make the housing supply problem worse

by Matt Levin

Apr 1, 2022

Homebuilders already face higher prices for materials. More expensive loans could affect construction for years.

The Federal Reserve's interest rate policy is upping the cost of home construction and could constrict future inventory.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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The team

David Brancaccio Host

Victoria Craig Host, BBC

Stephen Ryan Senior Producer, BBC

Jonathan Frewin Producer, BBC

Jay Siebold Technical Director

Meredith Garretson Morbey Senior Producer

Alex Schroeder Producer

Erika Soderstrom Producer

Rose Conlon Producer

Redmond Carolipio Digital Producer

Ariana Rosas Producer

Jesson Duller Media Producer

Brian Allison Technical Director

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