Aug 15, 2023

When will the Federal Reserve start cutting interest rates?

Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

The Fed has been raising rates for well over a year. Today, a look at what would make it reverse course. Plus, mmm, a cold beer ... made from recycled wastewater?

Segments From this episode

Americans continue to spend — even as credit card and student loan payments loom

by Matt Levin

Aug 15, 2023

The July retail sales report found that Americans are spending more than last year in most categories. Will that be a problem?

Retail sales climbed for the fourth straight month in July.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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Cars: Can't live with 'em, can't live without 'em

by Kai Ryssdal and Livi Burdette

Aug 15, 2023

Affordability has broken down, but the costs of not having your own vehicle are even higher for many. Marin Cogan of Vox explains.

The average new car costs a record $48,000 — up 25% between May 2020 and May 2023. During the same time, used car prices soared 50%.

Scott Olson/Getty Images

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Some restaurateurs are struggling despite food service sales growth

by Elizabeth Trovall

Aug 15, 2023

While takeout, delivery and drive-thru sales are above pre-pandemic levels, on-site dining remains down.

The pandemic has shifted where people eat as many moved away from urban areas and stopped going into the office, says Hudson Riehle of the National Restaurant Association.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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Music from the episode

Seven Light Years RJD2

Murder to the Mind Tash Sultana

Esperar Pra Ver Poolside, Fatnotronic

Summertime Magic Zikomo

Mind is Playing Tricks on Me Geto Boys

Adult Acid Thee oh Sees

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

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