MinnEcon Blog

Minnesota's manufacturing sector continues to signal economic expansion, but the outlook is for weaker growth.
The Swiss commodities giant now owns roughly a quarter of PolyMet's stock, with the option to purchase as much as 35 percent. PolyMet hopes to open northern Minnesota's first copper-nickel mine amid fervent environmental objections.
Minnesota banks muddle along
The financial health of Minnesota banks continued to improve in the three months ending in September, but profit growth is weak, and loan volume continues to decline compared to last year.
The mortgage delinquency rate, which is based on loans that are at least one payment in arrears, fell in Minnesota in the third quarter.
Variations on the theme of Occupy
Why hasn't the OccupyMN presence been as intense and confrontational as those in areas like New York City and Oakland?
A "smoothing" methodology probalby played a big role in making the unemployment rate and payroll employment number point in different directions in October.
Jobs, unemployment both fall
The state's employers cut 6,100 payroll jobs last month, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Minnesota ranks 5th among the states and Washington, D.c. in future job openings that require post-secondary education.
Will state budget deal force up rents?
A summer deal to close the state budget gap may shift a big new burden on to renters.