Business and Economic News

Tomatoes become latest symbol of America’s affordability squeeze
Prices for tomatoes are up 40 percent over the past year, the biggest increase tracked among products in the Consumer Price Index. Experts say the spike is the result of crop yields and two pillars of President Donald Trump's second term policies.
Minnesota breweries are feeling the pain as the craft beer industry continues to decline
There are more than 200 breweries across Minnesota and some are struggling to stay open. Brewers credit the tough times to tariffs, a shift in drinking habits and competing shelf space.
NPR's newsroom shrinks through buyouts and layoffs
At least 18 NPR journalists have accepted buyouts and another 10 have been laid off as the public media network attempts to save money and reorganize the newsroom.
Xcel customers to see gas rates increase by nearly 5 percent
Advocates say that higher gas rates will make it tougher for those struggling to already pay for other rising costs like groceries and gasoline.
Minnesota lawmakers agree to study possibility of building new nuclear plants
Supporters hope it's the first step toward lifting the state's 32-year-old moratorium on new nuclear plants in the state. They say Minnesota needs nuclear energy to help meet its goal of carbon-free electricity.
School workers pass first goal post toward health insurance reform in final day of legislative session
On the last day of the Minnesota Legislature’s 2026 session, lawmakers voted to fund a data collection project to study the spiraling health insurance costs for Minnesota school districts – a first step in reforming the health insurance program for school district employees as a whole.
Red River Valley farmers worry as strong winds threaten their soil
Winds that reached speeds of nearly 50 miles per hour blew through the Red River Valley recently. That leaves farmers concerned about potential nutrient loss in their soil as planting season has begun.