Interest rates are high, but  consumer confidence is up
Jul 26, 2023

Interest rates are high, but consumer confidence is up

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Consumer confidence is turning around, thanks to slowing inflation and a robust job market. Plus, what small-business owners look at to make their economic decisions.

Segments From this episode

A "Frankensteined" Fed press briefer

Marketplace host Kai Ryssdal unpacks today’s Federal Reserve interest rate decision and looks back at the 12 nearly identical press conferences the Fed has hosted.

Consumer confidence is rebounding. Here's why.

Jul 26, 2023
The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index is up 40% over last year, aided by moderating inflation and job market strength.
"We know from history that as long as folks are working, they feel more comfortable about spending,” said Quincy Krosby of LPL Financial.
David Becker/Getty Images for Nordstrom Rack

High interest rates are risky business

Jul 26, 2023
Higher interest rates hit businesses in multiple ways. The longer rates remain elevated, the harder it gets.
Corporate borrowers' interest payments have jumped, says Nick Kraemer at S&P Global Ratings.
Peter Dazeley/Getty Images

High rates of injury in women's soccer may be due to lack of funding

Jul 26, 2023
Knee injuries and concussions are more likely in the women's game. That may be because its equipment and training regimens are designed for men.
One reason female players are more likely to tear their ACLs is that women's soccer is under-resourced, and strength programs that can decrease the likelihood of injury aren't frequently implemented.
Katharine Lotze/Getty Images for Angel City FC

Could electric planes tempt Americans to fly short distances instead of driving?

Jul 26, 2023
Aviation company Surf Air Mobility is developing an electric engine to power planes during short jaunts. But the market is still untested.
Eviation's "Alice", the world's first all-electric commuter airplane, flew its first test flight last September. Companies are eyeing electric planes  to serve passengers taking short flights.
Mathieu Lewis-Rolland/Getty Images

The Federal Reserve relies on economic indicators when making decisions. So do small businesses.

Jul 26, 2023
National data, local indicators and informal measures of the economy all play a role.
Getty Images

Music from the episode

Work It Missy Elliott
Lambeau Freestyle
Tidal Wave Butcher Brown
Khudi Bi Aasman Khruangbin
Drugs It's Butter
Levitating Dua Lipa

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer
Maria Hollenhorst Producer II
Andie Corban Producer I
Sarah Leeson Producer I
Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II
Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I
Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer