NC State Economist

Jan 30, 2019

Should I Stay or Should I Go: Coal Ash in North Carolina

Coal has seen a recent, rapid decline as a source of electricity in North Carolina. Unfortunately, coal’s legacy lives on in ash ponds and landfills scattered across the state. In this NC State Economist, we offer an economist’s perspective on North Carolina’s coal ash challenges – and potential solutions. 

Jan 30, 2019

2019 Economic Outlook: The Late Innings of Growth?

With decade-low unemployment and accelerating labor productivity – but also a trade war with China and a sputtering stock market – where will our focus lie when we look back on 2018? In this NC State Economist, Mike Walden unpacks the top economic issues and opportunities of 2018, with a look ahead to 2019. 

Oct 2, 2018

Impacts of the USDA Broadband Loan and Grant Programs: Estimating Rate of Return

How much does publicly-funded infrastructure stimulate local economic performance? This NC State Economist reviews research that estimates the relative benefits and costs of federal efforts to promote broadband in rural areas. 

Oct 2, 2018

Impact of Minimum Wages on the U.S. Agricultural Sector

Increasing minimum wages have agribusinesses and farm operators worried. What is the impact of state and federal minimum wage laws on farm profits, products and profitability? In this NC State Economist, we explore the impact of state and federal minimum wage laws on farm employment and wages. 

Jun 4, 2018

Corn Basis Determines Impact of Out-of-state Corn on Animal Ag Profits

In this NC State Economist, we discuss using corn basis to calculate changes in the transportation cost of importing corn into North Carolina, and take a look forward at possible steps to preserve the vitality of North Carolina’s animal agriculture industry – the largest segment of our $84 billion agricultural economy. 

Jun 3, 2018

Conflict on Public Lands: New Off-Road Vehicle Restrictions in Outer Banks

New limits on off-road vehicles in North Carolina’s Outer Banks aim to protect endangered species. They also add another chapter to the United States’ long history of conflict over use of public land. 

May 31, 2017

The Economics of Tariffs: Can Restricting International Trade Be Good For the Economy?

United States trade policy can have substantial impacts close to home. In the recent issue of the NC State Economist, Dr. Thomas Grennes reviews the economics of tariffs on internationally traded goods and the impact they have on American jobs and our economy. 

Jan 1, 2017

2017 Economic Outlook: Is The Optimism Real?

Are happy days here again for the the national economy? That's the focus of the January 2017 issue of the NC State Economist. To help answer this question, economist Mike Walden shares insights after researching the performance of key national economic measures, national forecasts and attitudes, as well as key North Carolina economic indicators.