Jun 13, 2012
There are many measures of inflation, and each has its pluses and minuses. Federal officials are looking at a change in the inflation calculation that could help our federal budget. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains.
Jun 12, 2012
There will undoubtedly be a lot of talk this year on the campaign trail about closing tax loopholes as a way to help fix the federal budget. What are tax loopholes? And how easy will they be to close? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden weighs in.
Jun 11, 2012
There’s some evidence that bartering is making a comeback. Of course, with bartering rather than using money to buy something, there’s a direct exchange of products or services between people without any money changing hands. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether the rise of bartering is a response to our economic conditions.
Jun 8, 2012
The interest rate paid on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes fell to it's lowest point ever recently. What does that super-low rate mean for your and the nation's economy? Mike Walden discusses.
In today’s economy, is spending money to obtain a college degree worthwhile? And if so, are there caveats to that generalization? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers, pointing out factors prospective college students should consider as they decide whether college will work for them.
Jun 7, 2012
A new book argues that renting has replaced owning for many people and that this is not a bad thing. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains the author’s reasoning.
Jun 6, 2012
Dr. Ben Chapman, a food safety specialist with N.C. Cooperative Extension, will join Brenda Sutton, The Produce Lady, in two live, one-hour demonstrations on proper canning techniques.
Elections in France and Greece have again raised questions about the financial stability of the European Union and the future of the common currency called the euro. Might Europe reach a point where member countries each go back to their own currency? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.
Jun 5, 2012
The latest national jobs report showed 115,000 net new non-farm jobs created last month. This resulted in a reduction in the unemployment rate from 8.2 percent to 8.1 percent. But 500,000 people also dropped out of the labor force. So was this a positive or a negative report? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.
Jun 4, 2012
North Carolina State University scientists are seeking the public's help in identifying hemlock and Fraser fir trees that appear to be able to resist insects that are killing many of the trees.