Business and Economic News

Another Line 3 appeal: Four things to know
In the latest twist to the saga of the Line 3 oil replacement project, the Walz administration is challenging the proposed pipeline in court. Here are four things to know about this step in the yearslong process.
Minnesota unemployment rate falls to 7.7 percent
In June, the state’s unemployment rate was 8.6 percent. Though Minnesota's jobless rate has been falling since hitting a record high in May, it remains more than double what it was before the COVID-19 pandemic began. 
Coming soon to an iron mine near you: Electric vehicles?
Duluth-based Minnesota Power is pitching a pilot project to electrify some of the huge haul trucks used at northern Minnesota's iron ore mines.
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.