Business and Economic News

Former Fed Chair Paul Volcker dies at 92
Volcker took the top job at the Federal Reserve in 1979, at a time when inflation was spiraling out of control. He is credited with taming it.
How hard are tariffs hitting the economy? It depends on who you ask
The U.S. economy is still growing, but trade tensions have taken a toll — especially on factories and farms. The trade war's impact on the overall economy is being debated.
Weather takes big bite out of sugar beet profits
The largest beet sugar producer in the U.S. expects payments for the weather-damaged 2019 crop to fall more than $300 million under last year.
U student taps Nigerian roots to design a sneaker for Nike
University of Minnesota student Taoheed Bayo won a Nike design challenge this fall and set about creating a shoe inspired by his African heritage. His creation, the Afro-Yute Air Max 1, is doing more than selling. It’s teaching.
Despite job boom, more men are giving up on work
The long economic recovery has brought unemployment to historic lows. But the number of men in the labor force during their prime working age has dropped significantly over the past 50 years.
Walmart to stop selling Water Gremlin products
The fishing-sinker manufacturer based in White Bear Township is working to reduce lead dust leaving the plant under a court-approved plan. Children living with employees were found to have elevated blood lead levels.