Mike Walden

May 22, 2024

Another Record: NC Agriculture’s Economic Impact Rises to $111 Billion

North Carolina agriculture's economic impact topped $100 billion for a second straight year. 

May 17, 2024

You Decide: Is ‘Greedflation’ Keeping Prices High?

Prices surged in recent years and have remained high. Mike Walden breaks down some of the factors at play. 

May 3, 2024

You Decide: Do International Investments Help or Harm?

Do international investments help or hurt a state's economy? Mike Walden breaks down the pluses and minuses. 

Apr 19, 2024

You Decide: Why Are Jobs Increasing?

Is the booming rate of job growth sustainable? NC State economist Mike Walden looks at the factors driving a bullish labor market and whether those trends are likely to continue. 

Apr 5, 2024

You Decide: What’s the Future of Small Business?

Will the future be easier or harder for small businesses? NC State economist Mike Walden says the birth rate, labor costs, technology and other factors will determine the answer. 

Mar 22, 2024

You Decide: Can Homeownership Be Made More Affordable?

With the rising cost of housing, homeownership has become harder to achieve for many Americans. Economist Mike Walden weighs whether lower interest rates, selective locations or affordable housing initiatives are the best path forward. 

Mar 8, 2024

You Decide: What Are the Key Challenges for North Carolina’s Future?

Economist Mike Walden outlines some of the challenges that lie ahead for North Carolina as a growing state grappling to define future needs. 

Feb 23, 2024

You Decide: Has the State Labor Market Changed Since COVID?

Have there been significant changes to the North Carolina labor market since 2020? 

Feb 9, 2024

You Decide: What Went Right to Prevent the 2023 Recession?

Many economists predicted a recession in 2023. But consumers flipped the script on the experts. 

Jan 26, 2024

You Decide: Will the Fed Be Involved in Politics in 2024?

The Federal Reserve's decisions have far reaching implications. What impacts could the Fed's actions have in an election year?