Author: Dee Shore

Oct 12, 2012

Medicare and Medicaid

The federal government’s two big health care support programs, Medicare and Medicaid, have been in the news recently. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains the differences between these programs. 

Oct 11, 2012

Government help

Statistics show that the percentage of households receiving some kind of government help reached an all-time high of 50 percent in 2010. What’s behind this amazing number? And will it continue to rise? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 10, 2012

The future of gasoline

One of the most watched of prices is that of gasoline. Although gas prices don’t change in a straight line, the trend has appeared to be up. Should we expect more of the same in the future? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 9, 2012

What starting point?

There’s a big debate going on about whether we’re better off now, economically speaking. Of course, such comparisons must have both a starting point and an ending point. For most, the ending point is now. But what is the appropriate starting point? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 8, 2012

Is there a structural labor problem?

The job market is still a big issue in the economy. Some say much of the problem is structural rather than cyclical. What is structural versus cyclical? Which is the problem? And why does it matter? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 5, 2012

Food prices over time

Because of the Midwest drought, the government says food prices are expected to rise the rest of this year as well as next year. Still, food is very much a bargain when viewed over several decades, says N.C. State University economist Mike Walden. 

Oct 4, 2012

Successful nations

When it comes to economic development, what makes for a successful country? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 3, 2012

Sales

Most people like the idea of buying things at bargain prices. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes a look at why sales occur – and whether they always bring real savings. 

Oct 2, 2012

Getting ahead

With first the recession and now very sluggish economic growth, people are understandably focused on improving the economy. How do we do this? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 1, 2012

Negative interest rates

Some investors in Europe are actually earning negative interest rates on their investments. How can this happen? And what does it mean? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains.