Business and Economic News

Cities, counties head back to Capitol, sales tax wish lists in hand
A new rec center. Road improvements. A campground expansion. Those are just a few projects stalled because of the Minnesota Legislature's inaction on a tax and spending package during the last legislative cycle. Cities and counties are hoping for better luck in the next legislative session.
How Fed's series of rate hikes could affect your finances
The Federal Reserve’s move to raise its key rate by a half-point brought it to its highest range in 14 years. The Fed’s increase — its seventh rate hike this year — will make it even costlier for consumers and businesses to borrow for homes, autos and other purchases.
Asia Mall brings wide variety of cultures under one roof
A new mall specializing in Asian food and culture has opened in Eden Prairie. Organizers say an important step in creating more resources and representation for Asian communities in the state.
Rural town tries innovative solution to child care crisis
Affordable child care is a challenge for towns and cities across Minnesota. It's difficult to recruit or retain young workers if child care is not available and affordable. A northwestern Minnesota town is the first in the state to use local sales tax to fund a day care center.
There are now more nutcrackers than people living in Luverne
A new permanent display of 5,000 nutcrackers draws visitors from near and far — exactly as the original donor intended.
Duluth Mayor Emily Larson announces bid for third term
Duluth Mayor Emily Larson has announced she is running for a third term to lead northeastern Minnesota’s largest city. Larson became Duluth’s first female mayor when she was elected in 2015.
Savings at the gas pump are eaten up at the supermarket, as inflation stays high
A government report due out on Tuesday is expected to show inflation cooled a bit in November. But prices are still climbing and the Federal Reserve is preparing to raise interest rates again.
'It's a human rights issue': The year of Minnesota strikes and union organizing
Minnesota nurses just avoided what would have been a second strike this year. Railway workers this fall came close to striking. And, earlier this year, Minnesota teachers walked off the job. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with a labor journalist and a labor historian about why more workers are pushing for raises and workplace changes through a union.