Business and Economic News

Microsoft consults with Trump about ongoing talks to buy TikTok from Chinese firm
In its first public acknowledgement of a deal that could be worth billions of dollars, Microsoft said it is continuing talks with TikTok about a potential takeover of the U.S. operations of the hugely popular app.
Washington farmworkers ask state Supreme Court for overtime pay
Farmworkers in Washington state have gone to court to demand overtime pay. Coronavirus outbreaks in agricultural communities have focused new attention on working conditions and pay on farms.
Red pine shoot moths leaving their mark across much of Minnesota
If you live near red pine trees — and in much of Minnesota, chances are you do — you may have noticed some dead, brown patches in the upper branches this summer. They're proof of a moth outbreak the likes of which the state hasn’t seen in more than 20 years.
Negotiators report progress in coronavirus relief talks
Lawmakers reported progress on a huge coronavirus relief bill Saturday, as political pressure mounts to restore an expired $600-per-week supplemental unemployment benefit and send funding to help schools reopen.
End of federal $600 unemployment benefit leaves Minnesotans anxious
Tens of thousands of Minnesotans who have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic have relied on an extra $600 weekly unemployment payment from the federal government to make ends meet. But that extra cash benefit expires Friday.
Big-money investors gear up for a trillion-dollar bet on farm land
A trillion dollars worth of American farmland will change hands in the coming years. Wealthy investors are likely to buy more of it, with the power to shape rural communities and the environment.
NW Minnesota's wet cycle persists, putting crops again in peril
Minnesota’s northwest corner can’t catch a break from excessive rain. After a soggy last fall and spring flooding, heavy rains are damaging crops and roads.
Minneapolis limits bar service as people crowd too close together in some establishments
With COVID-19 cases on the rise in Minneapolis, Mayor Jacob Frey is imposing new restrictions on bars. The emergency order takes effect Saturday evening. It does not close the establishments entirely, but they’ll be table service only. Patrons will no longer be able to sit at the counter.