Apr 30, 2019

The economics of kidnapping

STRINGER/AFP/Getty Images

Ransom — and the insurance that covers it — is a big business. But first: how are tariffs affecting American businesses? Plus: With home prices dragging, are we headed for a buyer's market?

Segments From this episode

Don't look at corporate earnings for clues on how the economy is doing

by Sabri Ben-Achour

Apr 30, 2019

What's good (or bad) for corporations may not be good for the economy overall.

Board members watch a video demonstration for the Surface Hub 2 during the Microsoft annual shareholders meeting in Bellevue, Washington, in 2018.

Stephen Brashear/Getty Images

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Shelf Life

The economics of kidnapping

by Kai Ryssdal , Maria Hollenhorst and Daisy Palacios

Apr 30, 2019

How the criminal underworld operates the ransom business.

Philippine soldiers walk along a highway as they return to camp after an armed encouter with members of militant kidnap-for-ransom group, Abu Sayyaf, in the Sulu province on the southern island of Mindanao on August 26, 2016.

STRINGER/AFP/Getty Images

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Honolulu looks to Singapore to solve its housing shortage

by Ryan Finnerty

Apr 30, 2019

Honolulu’s housing market is one of the most expensive in the country.

Condo buildings visible from Ala Moana Beach Park.

Ryan Finnerty for Marketplace

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Homebuyers in expensive markets may finally get a break

by Amy Scott

Apr 30, 2019

New data shows price growth has been slowing for nearly in a year in some markets.

A for sale sign is seen on a single family home January 30, 2008 in Vallejo, California.

Paul Morris/Getty Images

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Music from the episode

Heartbeats José González

Ready Set Loop SBTRKT

Mystik Tash Sultana

Hanging Gardens Classixx

Blow Beyoncé

Riptide Vance Joy

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

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