Business and Economic News

Four key takeaways from McDonald's layoffs
NPR's Steve Inskeep talks to journalist Adam Chandler about what the announced layoffs at McDonalds say, and don't say, about the broader economy. Chandler is the author of “Drive-Thru Dreams.”
Number of CPAs dwindle as demand grows
Tax season is usually the time when certified public accountants, or CPAs, are at their busiest. But they’re busier than before due to a nationwide shortage within their own industry.
Laid off on leave: Yes, it's legal and it's hitting some workers hard
The wave of layoffs in tech, media and elsewhere is affecting a sizable number of people who are out on medical or parental leave. While legal, it can make a bad situation even worse.
Duluth apartment-to-hotel conversion rankles residents, city officials
A Duluth developer’s plans to convert the second floor of an apartment building in the Lincoln Park Craft District into a boutique hotel has prompted a public outcry. Residents and city officials say it will cause the loss of badly needed housing units in a complex that was built with the help of a public subsidy.
Fairview, Sanford push health systems merger plan back to at least August
The two health systems proposing to combine say they will take even more time to finish the deal. Attorney General Keith Ellison says he’s been told that “Fairview leadership has decided to postpone its plans to merge with Sanford.”
The impact of diversity, equity and inclusion pledges in the workplace
After George Floyd was murdered in 2020, corporations made pledges to address systemic discrimination both within their organizations and in the community, but what has actually changed? MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two diversity, equity and inclusion leaders in the Twin Cities about what DEI looks like in practice and how to create meaningful change. 
Watch: Biden pushes clean energy, economic agenda in Minnesota
President Joe Biden is set to tour a clean energy technology manufacturer in the Twin Cities on Monday as part of his effort to highlight his investment agenda ahead of an expected reelection campaign.
Minn. postal workers rally for better wages, more staffing
The National Association of Letter Carriers and the U.S. Postal Service are currently in contract negotiations, and the union members hoped that Sunday’s rally would raise support for their demands.
NBA, players reach deal for a new labor agreement
The deal will begin this summer and will last at least through the 2028-29 season. Either side can opt out then; otherwise, the new deal will last through 2029-30.