ECONOMIC POLICY

Nov 19 2025BUSINESS

Trade Takes a Hit: What Happened in August?

In August, trade numbers took a dive. The reason? New tariffs. These taxes on imports and exports started on August 7th. They came from the U. S. government. The result? A big drop in trade. First, let's talk about imports. These are goods and services bought from other countries. In August, they dropped by 5. 1%. That's a lot! The total was $340. 4 billion. Why? Be...

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Nov 17 2025POLITICS

Trump's Tariff Money Plan Hits a Snag

Trump has been talking about giving Americans a $2, 000 check from tariff money. But there's a big problem: new laws need to be made for this to happen. Trump said the money would come next year. He thinks the U. S. has enough money from tariffs to do this. But others aren't so sure. They say only Congress can decide how to spend federal money. And it's not clear if...

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Nov 17 2025POLITICS

Food Prices and Politics: What's Cooking in the U. S. ?

In a surprising move, tariffs on various food items, including beef, coffee, and tropical fruits, were recently removed. This decision came shortly after a significant electoral setback for Republicans, largely due to voter dissatisfaction with the high cost of living. However, it's important to note that imported food only makes up a small portion of what Americans ...

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Nov 16 2025POLITICS

GOP's Affordability Denial: A Post-Election Puzzle

After recent election setbacks in key states, many Republican leaders are downplaying concerns about affordability and the economy. They argue that the party's policies and President Donald Trump's leadership are not to blame. Instead, they suggest that Democrats and the media are misleading voters about the true state of the economy. Private discussions and officia...

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Nov 16 2025BUSINESS

Switzerland's Trade Deal: A Smart Move or a Risky Bet?

Switzerland has struck a new trade deal with the United States, but not everyone is happy about it. The deal aims to lower import tariffs for Swiss products in the U. S. from a whopping 39% to a more reasonable 15%. In return, Swiss companies are expected to invest a massive $200 billion in the U. S. The Swiss Economy Minister, Guy Parmelin, is pretty happy with the...

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Nov 16 2025POLITICS

Germany's Finance Chief Heads to China for Tough Talks

Germany's finance minister is off to China to talk about some big issues. Lars Klingbeil wants to chat about trade problems, like how China controls important materials and makes too much steel and electric car parts. He thinks talking directly to China is the best way to handle these problems. This trip is happening because Germany is changing how it does business ...

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Nov 15 2025BUSINESS

Could Portable Mortgages Shake Up the Housing Market?

The idea of portable mortgages is making waves in the housing market. This concept would let homeowners move their current mortgage to a new home, keeping their old interest rate and terms. It sounds like a dream for those stuck with low rates, but is it really the solution to the housing market's problems? Right now, many people are hesitant to move because they do...

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Nov 14 2025BUSINESS

U. S. Seeks to Cut Food Prices with New Trade Agreements

The U. S. government recently unveiled plans to negotiate trade agreements with several South American countries. These deals aim to reduce the cost of certain foods, such as bananas, coffee, and beef, which have seen significant price increases over the past year. The agreements involve Argentina, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Ecuador, with the goal of easing tariffs ...

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Nov 14 2025BUSINESS

Trade Talks Bring Cheaper Goods to U. S. Shoppers

The U. S. has decided to cut tariffs on certain products from Argentina, Ecuador, Guatemala, and El Salvador. This move is part of broader trade agreements aimed at making goods like coffee and bananas more affordable for American consumers. Officials hope these changes will lead to lower prices at the store. The deals are expected to wrap up soon, with more agreeme...

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Nov 12 2025POLITICS

Trump's Tariff Cash Promise: A Closer Look

Trump has been talking about giving Americans $2, 000 from tariffs. But experts say it's not that simple. Tariffs aren't bringing in as much money as Trump claims. The government has other plans for that money, like paying off debt or keeping tax cuts. Trump hasn't shared many details about who would get the money or how it would work. He says "everyone" except high...

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