Author: Dee Shore

Jan 31, 2013

Chinese investments

China now has the second largest economy in the world, second only to ours. What kinds of impact is this having on our economy? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jan 30, 2013

The payroll tax hike

In recent resolution to the so-called fiscal cliff, income tax rates are rising on a very small percentage of high-income earners. But, as N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains, there was another tax increase that will affect many more people. 

Jan 29, 2013

How much has tuition really increased?

Our country has seen big college tuition increases in recent years. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether the numbers we hear quoted tell the whole story. 

Jan 28, 2013

Using less electricity

Mary Walden says she’s running out of electrical outlets at home. “Between our appliances, TVs, computers, and smartphones, it seems like we don’t have an available plug. And I’m guessing we’re not alone. I imagine our nation’s electricity use must be skyrocketing. Am I correct?” Her husband, N.C. State University economist Mike Walden, responds. 

Jan 25, 2013

North Carolina job growth

North Carolina added around 60,000 jobs in 2012. Is this a good number, and will it continue into 2013? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jan 24, 2013

Sources of the debt problem

Recently the national debt as a percentage of annual national income reached 100 percent. It’s the first time since World War II that it has been this high. Why has it increased so much? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jan 23, 2013

Taxes and work

In the debate over tax policy, one argument for not increasing tax rates is that such tax hikes will cause people to work and invest less, thereby causing the economy to grow more slowly. Do all economists agree with this perspective? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Jan 22, 2013

Our energy transformation

Most forecasters see energy as one area where we will see dramatic change. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden outlines the kind of alterations they think we are likely to see. 

Jan 21, 2013

The value of a good boss

Most people who have worked have had bosses, and moreover they have had both good bosses and bad bosses. What do bosses really do, and is there a quantifiable value for a good boss? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Jan 18, 2013

Payoff of bail-outs

The federal government’s financial assistance to several large financial firms in 2008 and 2009 was very controversial. Supporters said the investments would be paid back. Have they been? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers.