Business and Economic News

U.S. jobless claims jump back above 1 million in face of virus
The number of laid-off workers seeking U.S. unemployment benefits rose to 1.1 million last week after two weeks of declines, evidence that employers are still cutting large numbers of jobs as the coronavirus bedevils the U.S. economy.
Target sales surge as Americans lean on big box stores
Target reported recorded-setting sales growth online and at established stores over the past three months, more evidence that big box retailers have become essential points of supply during the pandemic.
Expired jobless benefits cost economy billions, but some states reject Trump's aid
The expiration of emergency jobless benefits is draining $15 billion a week from the U.S. economy. President Donald Trump has offered to replace half that money, but states have been slow to accept.
Is it safe to start investing during an economic crisis?
The economic hit of the coronavirus pandemic has left thousands of people unemployed or working fewer hours. It might seem insensitive to think about investing during an economic crisis, but if you have the means then it could be worth considering.
Loans for first-time homebuyers see record delinquencies
It's a sign that minority, lower income, and first-time home buyers are getting hit hard financially amid the pandemic. But a vast majority are protected by Congress from foreclosure.
How the pandemic is making the gender pay gap worse
"We project it's going to take more than years for the gender wage gap to close to what it was before the pandemic," economist Jane Olmstead-Rumsey says.
Coin shortage hits retailers, laundromats, tooth fairy
As the economy recovers and businesses reopen, the coin supply is expected to normalize. In the meantime, people have found workarounds. However, there are still certain conundrums that only coins can solve.
How bars are fueling COVID-19 outbreaks
To owners of bars and nightclubs, pandemic restrictions on the industry can feel punitive. But there are important differences, virus hunters say, between a bar and a restaurant that serves alcohol.