Business and Economic News

Black-owned media outlets pressure large companies to fulfill commitments
After the murder of George Floyd, some big corporations — like Target, General Mills, Nestle and DoorDash — made pledges to invest in Black-owned media companies. Now those corporations are under pressure to make good on the promise. Black media makers like Sheletta Brundidge are concerned the promises won’t materialize.
Why heating costs are expected to spike this winter — and how you can prepare
The federal Energy Information Administration says heating costs could go up as much as 30 to 50 percent this winter. MPR News reporter Kirsti Marohn joined host Cathy Wurzer to talk about what's causing the spike — and how Minnesotans can prepare.
Unemployment is unavailable to many who lose jobs over vaccination rules
Companies are now following through on COVID-19 vaccine requirements, and people across the country are being fired from their jobs after rejecting the jab. In many states, jobless benefits are off-limits for people who refuse to get vaccinated as a requirement for continued employment.
The race is on to save Christmas as retailers fight the supply chain crunch
Retailers are racing to get merchandise onto store shelves in time for the busy holiday shopping season. But with ports and warehouses overflowing, many orders are tied up in traffic.
Bemidji touts quality of life — and a little cash — to recruit new residents
Bemidji is offering people $2,500 to relocate to the North Woods and bring their remote job with them. So far, more than 20 telecommuters have taken the city up on it, from the Twin Cities to as far away as Oregon and Arizona.
A judge temporarily halts baby powder cancer lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson
Federal bankruptcy Judge Craig Whitley in North Carolina halted roughly 38,000 lawsuits against J&J but only for 60 days. He also shifted the case back to New Jersey where J&J is headquartered.
Inflation surges to its highest since 1990
Consumer prices were 6.2 percent higher in October than a year ago as inflation continues to chip away at the buying power of households across the country.
Despite calls to improve, air travel is still a nightmare for many with disabilities
Congress told the Transportation Security Administration and airlines in 2018 to improve air travel for people with disabilities. But TSA data and stories from flyers suggest little has improved.
Infrastructure bill will send billions to Minnesota
The $1 trillion federal infrastructure bill will pay for roads, bridge and transit improvements in Minnesota as well as provide cash for broadband internet and electric car charging stations. But some of the specific projects over coming years will need the approval of the Legislature and governor.